Nintendo is usually known for its casual games, but the company has often delivered some incredible masterpieces that catered to the hardcore gaming audience, too. From action and adventure titles to role-playing games, the Japanese video game giant has published it all. However, one genre they have rarely explored is that of horror video games. Looks like they are working on it, as they recently revealed Emio, a new mystery adventure game developed in-house.

A while ago, Nintendo released a teaser for a video game titled Emio, which provided fans with a glimpse into a dark and eerie world. They recently revealed that it is the latest game in the Famicom Detective Club franchise.

The potential for a mature-themed game from Nintendo has intrigued both fans and critics alike, making it one of the most anticipated Nintendo Switch releases of the year.  

It’s unsurprising that Nintendo decided to delve into this genre, though. Gamers are getting more interested in titles with creepy environments. The atmosphere of Emio is one of the key elements that has gamers eagerly awaiting more information. Will this game be a one-time deal, or will Nintendo expand this title as a franchise like their bigwigs, Super Mario Bros. and The Legend of Zelda?

Here’s all we know about Emio, Nintendo’s disturbing new game. 

Nintendo’s new horror game ‘Emio’: A new direction for the publisher

Nintendo’s consoles have seen the release of several mature titles over the years. From Metal Gear to Fatal Frame, there was no shortage of titles for those looking for games with action and dark themes. However, none of those were developed or published by Nintendo.  

Ever since the launch of the Nintendo Switch, the publisher has switched things up and started featuring more games that are rated for people over the age of 16. Titles like Outlast and Agony have made their way to Nintendo platforms. If that wasn’t enough, Nintendo has published games like Bayonetta, a title that is not so suitable for children.  

Now, after years of licensing and publishing such titles, Nintendo seems to have decided to go all out and develop a mystery thriller title based on mature themes. They are calling it Emio – The Smiling Man: Famicom Detective Club. Yes, they have released a new game in Nintendo’s popular adventure franchise 30 years after The Girl Who Stands Behind was released.

‘Emio’ gameplay and story

Emio – The Smiling Man: Famicom Detective Club is a point-and-click adventure title. Those who have played Nintendo’s original Famicom Detective Club titles will know how it works, listening to people, investigating and solving the mystery of the famous serial killer, Emio.

According to the game’s producer and writer Yoshio Sakamoto Emio builds upon the popular Japanese urban legend of the same name. They have written a mystery around this character, who is also called the Smiling Man. The protagonist works at the Utsugi Detective Agency and aids the police in investigating murders supposedly committed by Emio, a man who offers crying girls a paper bag with a smile drawn on it and then takes their lives.

‘Emio’ release date and platforms

Emio game new nintendo horror game
Image Credit: Nintendo

Nintendo has announced that Emio – The Smiling Man: Famicom Detective Club will be released on 29 August 2024.

Emio will be released for the Nintendo Switch and possibly its successor, as Nintendo titles are usually exclusive to their own platforms. It’s an exciting time for all the old-school Nintendo fans. Looks like the success of Switch has encouraged them to bring back their lesser-known franchises back to their fans, too.

(Hero and Featured Image Credits: Nintendo)

Note:
The information in this article is accurate as of the date of publication.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

When is Emio, the horror video game releasing?

Emio – The Smiling Man: Famicom Detective Club will be released on 29 August 2024.

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Everything We Know About ‘Emio’, Nintendo’s New Horror Game

Rohit Sejwal

Digital Writer, Gaming
Let Rohit Sejwal be your guide to the immersive world of video games. Gaming isn't just a passion for him, it has become an integral part of his lifestyle. When he is not gaming or writing about it, he ..Read More