Online Experience Session with Vtuber Unit “Pikuseleido!”

It has been confirmed that a closed beta test for the asymmetric multiplayer horror game ‘Hide and Seek’ developed by FORCES Corporation will take place. The under-development ‘Hide and Seek’ is a game where players split into “Humans” who hide and “Oni” who seek, engaging in a tense game of tag that requires strategic thinking within a short time frame, as they search for audio and visual clues.

During this test period, a live broadcast featuring Vtuber unit “Pikuseleido!” is also scheduled, titled “First CBT Trial Play.” As viewers watch testers play the developmental build, they will evaluate the game’s feel in real-time and discuss improvements with the development team, realizing an interactive development style unique to indie games. This initiative to directly reflect player feedback is a significant step towards invigorating Japanese gaming culture.

The Enhanced Appeal of ‘Hide and Seek’

In ‘Hide and Seek,’ players are provided with a conversation function via “walkie-talkies,” introducing a new level of tension as they may be overheard by the Oni while hiding. Furthermore, an eerie third entity roaming the map allows for excitement that surpasses mere “Human vs. Oni.” This closed beta test includes updates since last November’s HORROR GAME SHOW Vol. 1, making the actions of both sides more strategic and heightening the overall tension.

The Enthusiasm and Cooperation of Development Vtubers

The development of ‘Hide and Seek’ involves developers who act as Vtubers. Each member leverages their expertise, with Shushu Urara handling world-building, Uutamapoyo in charge of character design and background layout, Nanahana Nanaha overseeing art direction, Nyandi Stella creating animations, and Utatane Chiru managing effects. They have established a multifaceted collaborative framework to advance the project. The broadcasts are conducted through YouTube channels, with schedules to be announced later on the official X.

Thoughts and Future Prospects

The initiative of ‘Hide and Seek’ to involve users in the development process presents a new way for games to provide entertainment. We will continue to keep an eye on the challenges posed by FORCES and “Pikuseleido!” as they improve through real-time feedback and push Japanese gaming culture to the next stage.

Source: PR TIMES