Phasmophobia

Phasmophobia is a cooperative, first-person horror investigation game. It places players in the role of paranormal investigators tasked with identifying the type of ghost haunting a specific location. It is designed for both solo and multiplayer play (with up to four players). At the start of each session, players prepare in a lobby by selecting equipment, customizing appearance, voting on a location, and setting the difficulty level. Once on site, the team begins the investigation from a mobile operations van. This hub contains tools such as a CCTV monitor, sanity and activity trackers, and an objective board outlining the mission's goals.

The core gameplay loop revolves around gathering evidence to identify the ghost. Players must use a variety of tools—like EMF readers, thermometers, and spirit boxes—to detect three specific types of evidence unique to each ghost. The game features 24 distinct ghost types, each inspired by folklore and mythologies from around the world, and each with different behaviors, strengths, and weaknesses. Correctly identifying the ghost type and completing optional objectives, such as taking photos or preventing a hunt with a crucifix, rewards players with money and experience points used to unlock new items, upgrades, and map locations.

Communication is central to the experience. Players can speak through local voice chat (audible only nearby) and walkie-talkies for global contact. Phasmophobia includes speech recognition, allowing ghosts and specific tools to respond to certain keywords spoken by players. As the investigation progresses, player sanity gradually depletes—faster in darkness or during ghost events. Low sanity increases the likelihood of a “hunt,” a period during which the ghost attempts to kill players. During a hunt, exit doors lock, electronic devices malfunction, and players must hide or evade the ghost using the environment. Cursed Possessions—special items like a Ouija Board, Tarot Cards, or a Monkey Paw—can trigger ghost interactions, grant useful abilities, or cause immediate danger, often at the cost of sanity.

The game's locations vary in size and complexity, ranging from small suburban homes to large institutions like prisons and asylums. Each map presents different challenges in terms of ghost behavior, evidence discovery, and survival. Some maps also restrict tools like the sanity monitor depending on the difficulty level. Players must rely not only on equipment but also on careful observation of ghost behavior. On higher difficulties, fewer pieces of evidence are available, forcing investigators to identify the ghost using indirect signs like movement patterns, speed, or hunting behavior.

The game includes a progression system where players level up by completing investigations and collecting evidence. As they advance, they unlock better equipment tiers and access to more complex maps. Equipment includes protective tools such as Firelights and Crucifixes, as well as investigative devices like cameras, glowsticks, and sound sensors. Photos can be taken as bonus evidence, awarding cash based on subject type, framing, and clarity.