Frictional Games, renowned for their chilling horror experiences, has unveiled their latest project, Ontos, a sci-fi mystery thriller set to release in 2026 [REF]1,2,3,4,8,9,10[/REF]. This new game serves as a spiritual successor to their critically acclaimed 2015 title, SOMA, and is already generating significant buzz in the gaming community. The game is described as a "spiritual successor," carrying forward the themes and atmosphere that made Soma a standout in the horror genre [REF]1,2,8,9,10[/REF].
Ontos will take players to a repurposed moon hotel, where they will embark on a journey filled with morally complex experiments and unravel a mysterious narrative. The game's creative director hinted at the deep, thought-provoking themes that will challenge players' perceptions of reality, much like its predecessor [REF]1,3,6,7,8,9,10[/REF].
The announcement, made during The Game Awards 2025, included a trailer that showcased the game's eerie environments and the central character, engineer Aditi Amani. Aditi is on a mission to unravel the mystery surrounding her missing father, leading her to the moon hotel, Samsara, built over a defunct mining colony [REF]1,2,6,7,8,9,10[/REF].
One of the most intriguing aspects of Ontos is the involvement of acclaimed actor Stellan Skarsgård. Skarsgård, known for his roles in films such as "The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo" and "Mamma Mia!," will lend his voice to a mysterious presence in the game. His participation adds a layer of depth and intrigue, enhancing the overall narrative experience [REF]6,7,8,9,10[/REF].
Ontos is set to be released on various platforms, including Xbox Series X|S, Xbox on PC, PlayStation 5, and Steam, making it an Xbox Play Anywhere title. This means players can enjoy the game seamlessly across their Xbox and PC devices, adding to the convenience and accessibility of the title [REF]1,2,6,7,8,9,10[/REF].
Frictional Games' commitment to crafting immersive and thought-provoking experiences is evident in their new project. The studio, known for games like Amnesia and SOMA, has a track record of delivering games that leave a lasting impact on players. With Ontos, they are poised to continue this legacy, offering a fresh take on the sci-fi horror genre while staying true to their roots [REF]1,2,3,4,8,9,10[/REF].
The release of Ontos in 2026 promises an exciting journey for horror and sci-fi enthusiasts alike. As players explore the depths of the moon hotel and confront the unsettling mysteries within, they will be drawn into a world where reality and illusion blur. With Stellan Skarsgård's voice adding depth to the narrative, Ontos is shaping up to be a must-play title for fans of immersive and thought-provoking gaming experiences [REF]1,2,6,7,8,9,10[/REF].