Silver Lining Interactive has signed a global publishing agreement with Studio Abattoir for The Pines, a psychological horror RPG set at a secluded therapy retreat. Its Stalker System gives player choices a direct consequence: someone who initially appears harmless can become a pursuer, following the protagonist through the surrounding forest. The partnership announcement does not specify release platforms or a launch date.
Players take the role of Edward Walker, a former detective struggling after a case went cold. His therapist recommends The Pines as a place to recover, with peace, quiet, and professional help on hand. Beneath that welcoming surface is a conspiracy. Exploring the open world means meeting residents, gathering evidence, and connecting details that others overlook while working out whom Edward can trust.
Decisions affect both Edward’s story and the lives of people at the retreat. Players can join groups and factions with their own narratives, developing the protagonist’s strength, investigative skills, or powers of persuasion to suit their approach. Talking, fighting, and investigating all provide ways to handle dangerous situations. Those interactions can also create lasting enemies: upsetting a resident or uncovering too much may prompt them to return as a stalker.
A pursuer does not have to remain an obstacle that Edward can only escape. Becoming stronger can give him a chance to confront someone who previously hunted him. Guns and ammunition are scarce, so combat also relies on tools such as bats and axes. Dodging, parrying, and choosing when to strike are part of staying alive during close encounters. Running remains an option when a confrontation becomes too dangerous.
The Pines is Studio Abattoir’s first major game project, developed by Kevin Jochems with key artwork support from Daphne Betten and motion capture and voice acting contributions from Yaron Mesika. Players who want to track its eventual release alongside other upcoming games can use the Playority Calendar to add titles to their accounts and receive updates about the games they follow.
