Indie deveoper Dial-X Studio has announced Abort, a new throwback survival horror game set in early 2000s China.

Abort is in development for Windows PC (via Steam), though a release date wasn’t announced. A crowdfunding campaign is planned, via Kickstarter.

Here’s a rundown on the game:

Story

“Abort” takes you to the early 2000s in China, where you’ll unravel the unsettling mysteries of the Zhang family. Set in a culturally rich environment, the game offers players a thought-provoking experience through an immersive narrative. Use the mystical camera to reveal hidden truths and solve intricate puzzles that lead you deeper into a story of forgotten voices and societal shadows.

Gameplay

Innovative Gameplay: Use unique tools like the camera and diary to interact with the world and uncover its secrets.
Camera: Revealing hidden elements. Its flashlight feature can expose secret items or monster tracks, albeit at the risk of drawing unwanted attention.

Possession: Interactions with the diary at times trigger possession — the female ghost’s soul takes over the player’s body, enabling him to navigate through swarms of horrifying presences undetected.

Puzzle Mastery: Solve complex puzzles that blend environmental storytelling with intuitive mechanics. Puzzle completion can trigger memory fragments, further unveiling the narrative.

Circumvent the Shadows: Abort fosters a non-confrontational gaming experience, immersing players in a chilling horror atmosphere without direct combat. Instead of fighting, the player’s journey is about circumventing the monsters and temporarily limiting their influence and freedom.

Key Features

• Cultural Exploration: Discover a world rich in East Asian cultural references and folklore, bringing authenticity and depth to your experience.
• Atmospheric Horror: Experience a chilling atmosphere focusing on tension and mood over jump scares.
• Empowerment Through Play: Unlike typical horror games, “Abort” offers an experience of self-reflection and empowerment.