Entertainment
Phasmophobia Console Release Proves Worth The Wait
Three months into its console journey, the nerve-wracking paranormal investigation game Phasmophobia continues to expand its reach on PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series S|X. The breakout hit from British indie developer Kinetic Games has been haunting PC players since 2020, and with nearly 22 million copies sold across all platforms, it’s clear that ghost hunting has struck a chord with horror enthusiasts. The early access launch in late 2024 opened the door for console players to discover what makes this unique blend of cooperative investigation and survival horror so compelling.
At its heart, Phasmophobia transforms players into amateur ghost hunters who must identify what kind of spirit is haunting each location – though that’s easier said than done when your flashlight starts flickering. While brave souls can venture out alone, the game truly shines in its cooperative multiplayer mode, where up to four players must work together to gather evidence while watching their sanity meter tick down and trying to avoid becoming the ghost’s next victim.

Thankfully, console players will find that the heart-pounding gameplay loop that made the PC version such a hit remains intact. Armed with an array of ghost-hunting gadgets that would make any paranormal TV show envious, investigators must collect evidence to identify one of 24 distinct ghost types. These bite-sized investigations typically last between five to ten minutes – though they can feel much longer when you’re hiding in a closet, holding your breath, and praying the ghost walks past. Players must carefully balance their drive to gather evidence with their dwindling sanity meter, as the lower it drops, the more likely they are to have an unfortunate encounter with their supernatural quarry.
However, the transition to consoles has introduced several notable differences from the PC version. The most significant change is the current limitation in voice detection capabilities. While PC players can verbally interact with ghosts using tools like the Spirit Box or Ouija board, console players must rely on preset button commands to communicate with spirits. This modification, while functional, has been noted to reduce the immersive quality that made the PC version particularly engaging.

The console port also presents some control scheme challenges. The interface, while similar to the PC version’s controller support, remains somewhat counterintuitive and requires time to master. Additionally, early access players have reported technical issues such as absent rain effects and interaction difficulties in hub areas, though these are expected to be addressed in future updates.
Another aspect that may impact new players’ experience is the game’s progression system. The initial equipment available to fresh characters is notably basic, requiring significant playtime to unlock more advanced tools. The developers have acknowledged this concern and indicated that adjustments to the progression system are planned for upcoming patches.

Yet despite these early access growing pains, the spine-chilling charm that made Phasmophobia a streaming sensation hasn’t been lost in translation to consoles. Every investigation still feels fresh and unpredictable, whether you’re dealing with a shy spirit that barely touches a door or an aggressive poltergeist that turns your carefully placed equipment into projectiles. The game’s masterful blend of investigation and horror keeps players coming back, even after their hundredth haunted house visit. The console version includes access to all thirteen currently available locations, ranging from small suburban houses to larger environments like schools and mental institutions.
The game’s equipment system features various tools for ghost detection and evidence gathering, with players starting with basic Tier I items and the ability to unlock more sophisticated equipment as they progress. The evidence system requires players to identify specific ghost traits through various means, though higher difficulty settings may limit the available evidence, forcing players to rely more on observation of ghost behavior and environmental clues.

Phasmophobia’s console release represents a significant milestone for Kinetic Games, whose journey with the title began in early access on PC in September 2020. The game’s development has been marked by consistent updates and improvements, with the studio maintaining an active development roadmap that promises future enhancements to core systems including photo evidence, progression mechanics, and additional content such as new ghost models and map locations.
The console version’s October 2024 launch followed several delays, including one caused by a fire at Kinetic Games’ office, highlighting the challenges faced during the porting process. The wait seems to have been worth it – with over one million console sales achieved in just three months, the game has found solid footing in its new platform environment, continuing the momentum that has made it one of the most notable indie horror games of recent years.

As Phasmophobia finds its footing in the console space, Kinetic Games continues to demonstrate the same dedication to improvement that helped make the PC version such a runaway success. While the ghost hunting experience might not be quite as polished as its PC counterpart just yet, the developer’s track record suggests that patient console players will soon be treated to the full paranormal investigation experience they’ve been waiting for. Just remember to pack an extra flashlight – and maybe a spare pair of pants.
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