Sam Barlow, known for his work on Silent Hill games Origins and Shattered Memories, has officially revealed his new project, previously codenamed "Project C." Titled Precognition, the game is described as a live-action sci-fi horror experience that builds upon the interactive storytelling principles of Barlow's previous indie titles such as Her Story, Telling Lies, and Immortality.
Precognition centers on a protagonist named Diana, who gains the ability to see the future after undergoing an experimental brain implant. The game aims to blend cinematic Full Motion Video (FMV) sequences with non-linear narrative design, emphasizing player freedom and consequential choices. Barlow stated that the team at Half Mermaid Productions is focused on pushing the boundaries of non-linear storytelling and ensuring an authentic sci-fi horror feel through cause-and-effect gameplay.
Joining Barlow on the project is film director Brandon Cronenberg, whose directorial credits include "Infinity Pool." Cronenberg noted the thematic overlap between his subjective, perspective-driven filmmaking and Barlow's interactive game narratives, suggesting a natural synergy for exploring warped realities and personal perspectives.
Precognition is also set to be published by Kinetic Publishing, a new venture launched by Phasmophobia developer Kinetic Games. The publisher announced four other titles alongside Precognition:
- Contact Protocol, a starship job simulator set in a gritty future, slated for Spring 2027.
- Crescent County, an open-world game featuring witch-tech and broom-based travel, planned for Summer 2027.
- Shellbound, a "Post-Metroidvania" set on a giant snail, due in Summer 2028.
- Aether Wizard Life, a cozy adventure game about apprenticing as a wizard, scheduled for Autumn 2028.
Kinetic Publishing's stated goal is to support indie developers while preserving their creative control. Precognition is slated for a Spring 2028 release.