Surgent Studios Unveils Psychological Horror Game 'Dead Take' Featuring Acclaimed Voice Actors
2025-07-02 02:26:28Surgent Studios has officially revealed their latest project, the psychological horror game Dead Take, featuring acclaimed voice actors Neil Newbon (Baldur's Gate 3) and Ben Starr (Clair Obscur: Expedition 33). This marks the studio's second major release following their 2024 Metroidvania title Tales of Kenzera: Zau.
Neil Newbon and Ben Starr have become two of the most recognizable voices in gaming, thanks to their standout performances in major titles. Newbon gained fame through roles like Astarion in Baldur's Gate 3 and Elijah Kamski in Detroit: Become Human, while Starr made his mark as Clive Rosfield in Final Fantasy 16 and Verso in Clair Obscur: Expedition 33. Their collaboration in Dead Take promises to deliver exceptional voice acting performances.
Developed by Surgent Studios and published by Pocketpair Publishing, Dead Take is described as a twisted exploration of power and corruption in the entertainment industry. Set in a secluded Hollywood Hills mansion, the game follows actor Chase Lowry (voiced by Newbon) as he searches for his missing friend Vinny Monroe (voiced by Starr). Players will navigate through escape room-style puzzles while splicing together live-action footage, uncovering dark industry secrets along the way.
Creative Director Abubakar Salim revealed that real-life horror stories shared between the development team and the lead actors helped shape the game's foundation. The recently released trailer showcases the game's atmospheric environments, from dimly lit dance clubs to opulent red carpet areas, while hinting at a mysterious third character named Willie who connects the two protagonists.
This project holds particular significance for Surgent Studios, which faced financial challenges after Tales of Kenzera: Zau underperformed commercially despite critical acclaim. For Pocketpair Publishing (Palworld creators), this marks their first publishing venture outside their own development projects.