The iconic horror franchise Hellraiser is expanding into the tabletop gaming space with three new adaptations planned for release in October 2027, coinciding with the 40th anniversary of the original film. Salt Entertainment has announced an agreement with Clive Barker and Park Ave Ent. LLC to bring Pinhead and the Cenobites to a new format.
The first title, Hellraiser: Puzzle of Flesh, is a dice-based, push-your-luck game designed by Travis Chance. Its custom box will be modeled after the franchise's signature Lament Configuration, serving as the game's dice tumbler. Salt describes the game as an escape-room style and social deduction experience where trust is constantly challenged by hidden desires and shifting loyalties.
For fans seeking a more narrative experience, a Hellraiser tabletop role-playing game is also in development. This project is being led by Francesco Nepitello, known for his work on The One Ring RPG and War of the Ring. Nepitello expressed his excitement to bring the blend of dread, desire, and forbidden knowledge inherent in Hellraiser to the gaming table.
The third and final project in this initial slate is a major new Hellraiser board game helmed by designer Michael Shinall, who has previously worked on titles such as Marvel Zombies and Bloodborne: The Board Game. While details are scarce, Shinall emphasized the franchise's unique ability to explore the human psyche and the internal horrors of the soul, aiming to translate this thematic depth into the new medium.
Clive Barker is actively involved in the development process, approving all aspects and guiding the creative direction. Salt Entertainment President Geoff Skinner confirmed that the games will draw inspiration from both the films and Barker's original novella, Hellbound Heart. This collaboration is part of a broader resurgence for the franchise, which has recently seen success with a video game and successful Kickstarter campaigns for comics and books.
Further details regarding Puzzle of Flesh, the TTRPG, and the major board game will be released in the coming months, with all titles slated for retail availability.