Reanimalis the next project by Tarsier Studios. Known as the original creators of theLittle Nightmaresfranchise, Tarsier Studios announced a brand-new IP last year at Gamescom titledReanimal. This harrowing new horror tale follows an orphaned brother and sister on a grueling journey to save their missing friends. The general premise ofReanimalhas been confirmed, but the deeper story remains a mystery.
Despite the game’s secretive nature, though, one thing is for certain.Reanimalis set to be one of Tarsier’s most visually shocking games yet. TheLittle Nightmaresseries was known for its grotesque and otherworldly character design, andReanimalseeks to take that a step further. This time, the twisted monstrosities the players have to face are spine-chilling animal hybrids that aim to bring plenty of uneasy moments. The skin-crawling designsReanimalboasts demonstrate how Tarsier Studios sets an even darker atmosphere than its previous work, but its plot promises added emotional turmoil. While the main objective is to save the main characters' friends, it’s unlikely that they will all make it out alive.
Reanimal’s Story is Bound to Have Heavy Emotional Moments
The first and secondLittle Nightmaresstories were already dark enough, but Tarsier Studios has teasedReanimalas even more intense. Based on the visuals alone, that has been made quite clear, and while that’s exciting, it’s also nerve-wracking when considering the journey ahead. On the game’s official Steam page, a description of the game reads, “In this unsettling tale, the emphasis is on tension and thick atmosphere, as you join the two orphans on a desperate search for hope and redemption in the direst of circumstances.” So, there is at least a chance for hope within the story, but based onTarsier Studios' track record, shocking and upsetting twists may also balance out those hopeful moments.
As of now,Reanimaldoes not have an official release date set in stone.
Like Little Nightmares, Reanimal May Be Ready to Shock
IfLittle Nightmares 2is any indication of whereReanimal’s story can go, it means players may be better off not expecting a happy ending for every character. ThroughoutLittle Nightmares 2, players take on the role of Mono as he protects the first game’s raincoat-wearing protagonist Six on their journey. However, in a jaw-dropping moment,Six betrays Mono at the very end of the game, leaving him to a grim fate. There are plenty of theories as to why Six does this, but regardless, it serves as a huge gut-punch ending to an already bleak story.
In this unsettling tale, the emphasis is on tension and thick atmosphere, as you join the two orphans on a desperate search for hope and redemption in the direst of circumstances.
Since heart-wrenching horror stories are Tarsier Studios' bread and butter, some of the friends ofReanimal’s two protagoniststhat players need to save are unlikely to survive. If this prediction is accurate, it will be interesting to see if such character deaths are written into the story and unavoidable or if player actions will dictate potential losses.
Reanimal is an Exciting Step Forward For Tarsier Studios
Now that the developer is no longer involved withLittle Nightmares, Tarsier Studios now has the chance to showcase fresh ideas.Reanimalembraces much of what madeLittle Nightmaresstand out, but this lean into even dark territory is compelling. It will be truly fascinating to see ifReanimalgoeshead-to-head withLittle Nightmares 3.
BothReanimalandLittle Nightmares IIIfeature co-op, adding an extra level to potential competition.
As the year continues, Tarsier Studios will hopefully offer more insight intoReanimal, or at the very least, confirm a release date.Reanimallooks incredibly grim, but in the most delightful way, and it will be fascinating to see how the story matches that energy as the narrative unfolds.
