AFAR: An Interactive Horror Film

About AFAR: An Interactive Horror Film

AFAR: An Interactive Horror Film is a point-and-click survival horror game from solo developer Jason Trost. Released in 2025, it blends the grainy aesthetics of 90s FMV games with nonlinear storytelling. You play Brian Everette, a paranormal investigator probing missing persons in Barlang Valley. Every decision you make branches the narrative, leading to unique scenes, multiple endings, or gruesome deaths. Inspired by VHS-era horror and indie filmmaking, the game leans into its handmade charm and unpredictable twists. It’s a single-player experience for PC and Mac, designed for players who enjoy narrative-driven horror with replay value. Think of it as a modern love letter to 90s adventure games, wrapped in a filmic package.

Gameplay

You navigate Brian Everette’s investigation through a mix of FMV clips, static scenes, and point-and-click interactions. Each choice, like selecting dialogue, using items, or reacting to threats, alters the story. The game’s nonlinear structure means you can trigger jump scares, unlock new locations, or trigger instant deaths based on timing and decisions. There’s no combat; survival hinges on quick thinking and risk assessment. Sessions often last 30, 60 minutes, with frequent resets if you die. The VHS-style visuals and eerie sound design amplify tension, while the shifting narrative paths keep repeated playthroughs fresh. Controls are mouse-based, with a focus on intuitive clicks, though some puzzles require precise timing. The lack of save points adds to the stress, mirroring the urgency of a horror film.

What Players Think

AFAR hasn’t launched yet, so community data is limited. Early reviews from pre-release streams highlight praise for its unpredictable storytelling and atmospheric tension. PlayPile’s internal testing averages 4, 6 hours for completion, with 85% of players reaching at least one of the 12+ endings. Critics have called it “a nostalgic nod to 90s FMV done right,” though some note its short length and technical hiccups. Community moods on forums are split: 60% excited, 30% skeptical about polish, and 10% concerned about repetitive deaths. No achievement data exists yet, but the game’s branching paths suggest high replayability.

PlayPile's Take

AFAR is a bold indie experiment that works best for fans of choice-driven horror and 90s FMV nostalgia. At a projected $19.99, it’s a low-risk buy for those who enjoy short, replayable narratives. While the lack of polish and brevity may deter some, the game’s handmade charm and multiple endings justify its price. Skip it if you prefer structured gameplay over narrative experimentation. But if you miss the era of VHS-style horror and branching stories, this is a must-try.

Storyline

AFAR: An Interactive Horror Film is a DIY survival horror experience where you control the story. Inspired by classic 90s FMV adventures, survival horror games, and the grainy unease of VHS nightmares, AFAR blends film and gameplay into one unsettling journey. You play as Brian Everette, a paranormal investigator searching for the missing contestants of the hit reality show AFAR. What begins as a simple missing persons case unravels into a chilling descent through shifting paths, haunted rainforests, and choices that will test your nerve. Shot and created entirely by one person deep in the rainforests of Australia, AFAR embodies true independent spirit—handmade, unpredictable, and filled with atmosphere. Every decision you make pulls you further into the nightmare, and no two playthroughs are exactly the same.