THere are two categories of fears. One will leave you stunned with an unexpectedly original way of cowering under a pillow. The other, slowly seeping beneath your skin, gently pricks the back of your neck, haunting you for weeks. The break etiquette seance fits into this latter category, exuding an atmosphere reminiscent of an Irish murder mystery set in the 1890s.

You will take on the role of a detective dispatched to the esteemed Blake Manor to investigate the mysterious disappearance of Evelyn Deane, which occurred just two nights before the Seance. Mystics from around the globe have gathered at the dilapidated mansion to reach out to the deceased regarding all the treasures Evelyn possessed, but can they truly connect with the other side? And what is the source of the shadowy presence? Numerous secrets await unraveling.

“Think of it as Gothic or folk horror,” states Dave McCabe, the lead storyteller. “Being in a location you shouldn’t be invokes a creeping dread, and each step you take feels perilous.”

As you navigate the house and converse with each guest, time slips away. You’ll need to strive to comprehend what’s unfolding. Solving the puzzles may require moving objects or discovering hidden codes. Furthermore, you’ll need to be alert and present to catch crucial information.

The mystery is steeped in Victorian spiritualism, reflecting the Maelstrom of Irish folklore. “We selected a pivotal moment in Irish mythology to set our narrative,” explains Paul Conway, the lead artist and CEO of developer Spooky Doorway. “This specific place serves as a conduit between ancient magic and supernatural occurrences, though I can’t divulge too much without spoiling the surprise!”

“We are definitely exploring various Irish myths, pagan traditions, and ghost tales,” McCabe adds. While these elements may not always have a direct influence on the storyline, otherworldly entities linger just beyond the veil. Traditional Irish motifs, such as turnips—far more ominous than today’s Halloween pumpkins—are scattered across the estate. Expect to encounter a sudden flash of light something early on, as the library brims with ancient stories and legends for your perusal. However, don’t dawdle; time is of the essence in solving the mystery.

The developers take pride in their heritage and aim to foster a deeper appreciation for Irish culture and history. “I hope we can add another dimension to the awareness people have about Ireland and Irish heritage—beyond just St. Patrick’s Day or flat caps,” says McCabe. “And perhaps some visitors will be inspired to explore ghostly castles.”