The Brotherhood, a South African indie studio, is expanding their Stasis series with the upcoming first-person horror game, Animal Use Protocol. This new installment promises to deliver an immersive and unsettling experience, building on the series’ reputation for eerie atmospheres and complex narratives. Fans eagerly anticipate the continuation of Penn and Trip’s harrowing adventures in a meticulously crafted environment.
Developments in Animal Use Protocol reflect significant advancements from previous announcements. Earlier reveals focused primarily on narrative elements, whereas the latest updates showcase enhanced gameplay mechanics and visual fidelity. The transition to Unreal Engine 5 marks a notable upgrade, aiming to provide a more dynamic and interactive horror experience compared to earlier titles.
How Does the New Gameplay Enhance the Horror Element?
The gameplay incorporates real-time, first-person mechanics that intensify the horror experience. Penn utilizes an industrial gravity gun for both problem-solving and defense, adding a strategic layer to encounters. The ability to interact with the environment, such as blocking gunfire with a crystal-encrusted office chair, heightens the sense of vulnerability and urgency.
What Makes Penn and Trip Stand Out as Characters?
Penn, a bio-engineered chimpanzee, and Trip, a rat with cybernetic enhancements, offer a unique dynamic.
“Their relationship starts off antagonistic, which adds depth to their interactions,”
enhancing character development and player engagement. This duo brings both emotional complexity and tactical versatility to the gameplay, distinguishing them from typical horror protagonists.
When Can Players Expect the Game to Be Available?
Animal Use Protocol is scheduled for release in 2026, though players can add it to their Steam wishlist immediately. Early access to trailers and gameplay snippets has built anticipation, with the studio maintaining momentum through regular updates. This extended timeline suggests a commitment to refining the game, ensuring a polished final product upon release.
Building on its predecessor, Stasis: Bone Totem, Animal Use Protocol aims to deepen the lore and expand the universe established by The Brotherhood. Previous titles were praised for their atmospheric storytelling and challenging gameplay, setting high expectations for the new release. The continuity in quality and innovation is expected to attract both returning fans and new players to the series.
Animal Use Protocol integrates complex inventory systems and survival horror elements, requiring players to manage resources wisely. The game’s emphasis on non-wasteable puzzle items and consumable resources adds layers of strategy and tension. This design choice aligns with traditional survival horror mechanics while introducing fresh challenges that enhance player immersion.
Ultimately, Animal Use Protocol represents a significant step forward for The Brotherhood, blending narrative depth with sophisticated gameplay. By leveraging advanced technology and engaging character dynamics, the studio seeks to deliver a compelling horror experience. Players can look forward to exploring a richly detailed world, facing formidable threats, and uncovering the dark secrets that lie within.
