Ghost Keeper News

[h2]Good day to you, Master![/h2][hr][/hr][p]They call me Clever for a good reason, your wickedness! Not that I'm bragging, but I understand almost everything I have to tell you today. For the most part… anyway! Our infernal troops stirred the cauldron for a long time, mixing in countless ingredients along with their deep knowledge. Thanks to them, we can now journey into the very core consciousness of our mortal victims and learn more about their motivations, decision-making, and, of course, how to get rid of them once and for all! Let’s mess with their heads, shall we?[/p][p] [/p][p][/p][hr][/hr][h2]Mortals and their behavior - everything you need to know[/h2][p]Over the last few weeks, the mortals have become somewhat… smarter. That's actually a good thing, as we like challenges, right, master? It turns out their intelligence has changed. Artificial one, but still intelligence. [/p][p]As the number of their behaviors, actions and motivations increased, maintaining the old AI system became difficult and error-prone. Many elements were too interdependent from each other, so our evil geniuses decided to introduce fundamental changes to the architecture of the whole mortal thinking system.[/p][p]From now on, your living foes will utilize a more modular solution, which in fact, is quite popular in the gaming industry - namely Behavior Trees. What are those?[/p][p]
[/p][hr][/hr][h2]Behavior Trees… meaning?[/h2][p][/p][p]Behavior Trees offer significantly greater possibilities in terms of configuration and development of mortal behavior, while being easier to use and follow than our previous system. Being as smart as we are, we have introduced tools that allow us to visually see what is going on in each of your victim’s head, making it much easier to detect and fix bugs. Nasty! [/p][p]And so, thanks to these diabolic novelties, changing character behavior or introducing new ones is now much easier, as it can often be done in the editor without the need to interfere with the source code. Messing with mortal minds was never easier![/p][p][/p][p][/p][hr][/hr][h2]More changes are on their way[/h2][p][/p][p]In the shadows of our laboratories, we are working on further important changes and improvements that you will later be able to use during your evil campaign. Since minds as sharp as mine are needed for the task, I shall depart now, Master. I'll leave you to wonder how you can manipulate, terrify, and scare away the weak minds of our victims… and today’s contemplations will surely give you something to think of! Until we meet again…[/p][p][/p][p][/p][h3]Best regards,[/h3][h3]Clever the Imp[/h3][p][/p][p] [dynamiclink][/dynamiclink] [/p]

[h2]Greetings, Master! [/h2][hr][/hr][p]Some of the demons say that I shouldn't tell you. Some of them even think you'll be scared. Nonsense! It’s no spoiler, it’s just a… sneak peek. Yes, a sneak peek! As your faithful minion, my Master, it is my duty to tell you the tale about challenges that await us in the future. At this point, much is still uncertain, but the more we know, the better, right? Oh, and remember to grab a coat, as the sight of where we're going will give you the chills![/p][p][/p][p] [/p][h2]A gloomy Cemetery at the Edge of the Forest[/h2][p][/p][p]What, you thought our adventures were limited to haunted mansions? Oh no, Master, your demonic adventures will lead you far beyond that… You are sure to visit numerous varied locations, such as this Cemetery. But before we take our first steps down its twisted paths, let’s discuss its history. Ekhm, hm…[/p][p][/p][p]In the shadow of the coniferous woods, on the outskirts of the city’s bustling heart, the Forest Cemetery began its quiet vigil over the dead. Originally intended as a resting place for the region’s inhabitants, it was a sanctuary marked by simplicity and an unspoken beauty, resonating with the tranquil whisper of the forest.[/p][p][/p][p]In those times, the Brotherhood of Light, guardians of order and virtue, decided that the cemetery should reflect the egalitarian ethos they defended. Wealth and vanity were to remain at the gates; within the cemetery’s boundaries all graves were to be equal, for in death, as they taught, all became the same. Only wooden plaques and natural stones, engraved with the names of the departed, were permitted - modest tributes to the souls they commemorated.[/p][p]
[/p][p]Thus, the cemetery became a place that united people in their final rest, where wildflowers and trees blended seamlessly with the graves, erasing former social differences. It was a place where the only distinction was the name carved in wood or stone, and the only status the dead held was that of being remembered.[/p][p][/p][hr][/hr][h2]Nothing good lasts forever[/h2][p][/p][p]Yet as the wheel of time turned, so too did the winds that swept through the forest cemetery. The unchanging laws of change began to leave their mark on this secluded necropolis, as whispers of transformation echoed among the pines. Once a modest resting place, cherished for its natural tranquility and unpretentiousness, it began to feel the subtle, creeping influence of wealth and the desire to stand out - even in death.[/p][p][/p][p]Wooden symbols were replaced with stone, graves came to be “guarded” by sculptures, cobbled paths wound between the plots, until finally an iron gate separated the upper part of the cemetery, dividing it - much like the city itself - into an “upper” and a “lower” district.[/p][p]Such vile changes were bound to have consequences…[/p][p][/p][p][/p][hr][/hr][h2]Disrespect for nature and legacy is your chance, Master[/h2][p][/p][p]Sounds pretty interesting, doesn't it? A once beautiful and egalitarian cemetery twisted by human vanity and whims. If you listened carefully to the previous story told by Clever, you might already have an idea who really dislikes the lack of respect for the nature and forest in which this place is hidden… But let's not get ahead of the facts![/p][p][/p][p]I simply can't wait to see you command your ghosts and other minions when you visit the Forest Cemetery. We'll give those pesky (pun intended!) mortals a really hard time. Well, at least if you prove yourself as an efficient leader. But don't worry about it, Clever and I are here to advise you with our extremely professional advice… just remember us when you achieve your great demonic goals, aight?[/p][p][/p][p][/p][h3]Best regards,[/h3][h3]Pesky the Imp[/h3][p][/p][p] [dynamiclink][/dynamiclink] [/p]

[p][/p][p]We’re setting up a limited access, closed playtest for Pizza Slice - our upcoming cozy simulator in which you run a pizza restaurant business. The test is scheduled to last from August 26th until September 16th. To join, simply go to Pizza Slice’s Steam Store Page and click the green “Request Access” button to be viable for participation.[/p][p][/p][p]It’s 100% free with the only requirement being able to run the game (that is being above the minimal system requirements). 
[/p][h3]Here’s the latest trailer for the game, enjoy![/h3][p][/p][previewyoutube][/previewyoutube][p][/p][hr][/hr][p][/p][h2]🍕About Pizza Slice[/h2][p][/p][p]If you’ve been dreaming of running an Italian restaurant with traditions right out of a cozy depiction of New York city, then you’re in for a treat! Pizza Slice is more than just a simulator, it is a true Italian adventure! Take on the role of Tonio, manage your family pizzeria, bake authentic Italian pizzas, fight the competition and grow your business. See if you can win the title of the best pizzeria in the area![/p][h3]
Game features:[/h3][p]• The Dream - Experience a cozy Italy in the heart of a romanticized New York City: run an Italian pizzeria in the middle of a bustling American metropolis.

• The Business - owning a restaurant is not only about the food, but also managing ingredients, doing prep work, cleaning, and being the front face of the establishment. In Pizza Slice you need to master the whole business of running a restaurant, not only the food.[/p][p]
• The Buzz - you need to think on your feet - expand the amount of tables, buy better kitchenware, learn or create new recipes, fight your competition and fend off the culinary mafia all while doing your everyday chores.

• A cozy simulation - the above points make you sweaty? Relax and have-a-go! Pizza Slice at its heart is a romantic and humorous depiction of what it means to run a modern restaurant business.

• A portion for two - you will have your unique staff at the restaurant but why not invite a friend and play together? It’s half the buzz and double the fun! [/p][p][/p][hr][/hr][p][/p][h2]🥓What can you expect from the build?[/h2][p][/p][p]A single player experience, which will showcase the basic gameplay loop: from shopping for ingredients, through prep work, to creating pizzas, serving them and keeping your clientele satisfied. The game will allow you to play for 5 in-game days - enough to get a grasp for the mechanics and the flow of the game, while leaving an appetite for more.[/p][p][/p][p]The amount of available ingredients and ways in which you can expand your restaurant and your business will be limited. However, you will still be able to compose your own pizzas and set your own prices for them.[/p][p][/p][p]Pizza Slice continues to be in development. The current state of the build does not represent the final quality of the game.[/p][p][/p][hr][/hr][p][/p][h2]🌿Why are we doing the Playtest?[/h2][p]We strongly believe that modern games should be created alongside the game’s community. We’re looking forward to hearing your feedback about the overall enjoyment of the experience, how well the gameplay loop keeps you interested, and in which direction you would want to see the game expanding.[/p][p][/p][p]The playtests will help us find and resolve unforeseen issues and make the game experience tighter. If you have not been selected for this round of tests - don’t worry, you will remain in the pool of possible participants for any future playtests.
[/p][p]Please also bear in mind that this playtest will be a closed one, so no sharing or streaming yet - the game is still in development and not yet in a fully representative state for the general public. Thank you for respecting the embargo.[/p][p]
Build Information & Requirements[/p]

• [p]Platform: Windows PC via Steam[/p]
• [p]Controller Support: Partial Support[/p]
• [p]Supported Languages - VO: English, Text & Interface: ENG, FR, IT, GER, ESP, PL, PT-BR, RUS, PT, Simplified CN.
  
  [/p]
• [p]Hardware Minimum Requirements:[/p]
  • [p]Windows 7 (64-bit) or newer[/p]
  • [p]Intel Core i3, 3,20Ghz / AMD Phenom II X4 955, 3,2Ghz[/p]
  • [p]4 GB RAM[/p]
  • [p]Nvidia GeForce GTX 560 / AMD R7-260x[/p]
  • [p]DirectX 11[/p]
  • [p]6 GB free HDD Space
    [/p]

[p][/p][hr][/hr][p][/p][h3]🤌How to Join?[/h3]

1. [p]Go to the Pizza Slice Steam Page now. You can follow the link HERE.[/p]
2. [p]Click on the Request Access button found on the playtest section of the page.[/p]
3. [p]That’s it! You’re signed in. Now patiently await for a confirmation email.[/p]
4. [p]The playtests will begin on August 26th, 2025.[/p]

[p][/p][h3]👌Got questions?[/h3][p]The easiest way to ask us questions is by joining our Discord server and asking us directly. [/p][p]
[/p][p][/p][p]
See you at the table, really soon![/p][p][/p][p]The Gaming Factory Team[/p][p][/p]

[p]Shh! Tread lightly, Master, don't make a sound... please. Scared? Me? We imps are never scared! Well, maybe only when we have a good reason to. But no worries there, after all, the subject of our today’s consideration is your minion. A huge, deadly, mysterious one, but still a minion, am I right? Let's just try not to get in its way and everything will be fine… I hope.[/p][p] [/p][p][/p][h2]Claws, fangs and a dramatic past - meet Shadowmaw[/h2][p]Take a good look at it, Master! Shadowmaw is a blood-chilling fusion of the ethereal and the feral - a beast that resembles a wolf but is far more terrifying. Larger than any natural beast, its body seems to be woven from the darkest shadows, with a constantly shifting, almost liquid form. Some would say that in a way it’s beautiful… but not me! Just look at Shadowmaw’s fur, it ripples like smoke, and a faint mist rises wherever its paws touch the ground. Its eyes glow deep red, and its growl is a haunting blend of wolfish rumble and demonic howl.[/p][p][/p][hr][/hr][p][/p][h2]A rage that has lasted for centuries[/h2][p]Get comfy, as I have a dramatic tale to tell. No, we have no time for tea! Where was I? Ah… In a long-forgotten era, when ancient forests blanketed vast lands, Shadowmaw was a guardian spirit, revered as the protector of the woods. It was said to embody the will of the forest and serve as a sentinel against those who sought to harm its sacred groves. Legends spoke of its howl echoing through the trees - a sound that brought peace and balance to its domain. [/p][p][/p][p]But over time, the world changed. The ancient forests began to recede, cut down by human expansion and neglect. With each tree felled, a part of Shadowmaw’s essence faded, turning what was once a noble spirit into a specter of vengeance. The guardian that once protected the forest transformed into Shadowmaw - a creature driven by a deep-rooted rage against humanity for the destruction of its home. Quite useful in our situation, wouldn’t you say?[/p][p][/p][p][/p][p]The transformation was not only physical, but spiritual as well. Shadowmaw became the embodiment of nature’s fury - a ghostly wolf haunting the remnants of its once-majestic realm. It wandered the borders between the ethereal and physical worlds, a mournful yet terrifying presence, serving as a grim reminder of the cost of humanity’s disregard for the natural world.[/p][p][/p][hr][/hr][p] [/p][h2]A beast indeed, but a clever one[/h2][p]Don't be fooled, behind those huge fangs and blazing eyes there's also quite a brain. In its interactions, Shadowmaw is both terrifying and intelligent. It hunts its prey not only as a predator, but also as a strategic tactician, using the environment to its advantage. Its howls and precise actions often seem to carry a message - a warning to those who continue to harm the natural world.[/p][p][/p][p]Its rage is profound; it is not mindless aggression, but a reflection of deep loss and a desperate, enduring desire to protect what remains of its ancient home. What is it, you feel sorry for it, Master? You will quickly change your mind after seeing Shadowmaw’s deadly abilities! And these are just a few of them…[/p][p]

[/p][h2]Shadowmaw Skills:[/h2][p][/p][p]• Shadow Leap - after lurking in the shadows, Shadowmaw leaps out at the right moment to strike a mortal, dealing significant damage.[/p][p][/p][p]• Hunter and Prey - the beast pins down a mortal and then drags its prey toward the Abyssal Rift. Ouch! [/p][p][/p][p]• Ethereal Howl - an ear-splitting, piercing howl that announces the arrival of Shadowmaw. Completely terrifying to nearby mortals.[/p][p][/p][p]• Hunting in the Mist - Shadowmaw turns into mist, becoming invisible for a short time, preventing hunters from attacking him.[/p][p][/p][p]Aight, looks like our work is done for now, my Master! What a monstrous alliance we make. The horde is eager to serve, and soon, not a single mortal will remain untouched! Rumor has it they’ve started gathering on our Discord server… so come and find them. And don’t forget to wishlist Ghost Keeper on Steam. The age of living is over - let’s make sure of it![/p][p][/p][p]
[dynamiclink][/dynamiclink]Your humble servant, [/p][p]Clever Imp[/p][p]

[/p]

[h3]Pesky Imp[/h3][p]Oh ho ho! What’s this? You dared to summon us? Poked your curious little fingers into hell itself to possess forbidden knowledge? I mean, it’s not that much of a knowledge, and not that much of forbidden… but still! As you know, our wretched little Ghost Keeper Demo has been haunting the Steam neighborhood for a month now, so it’s high time for a proper summary.[/p][p][/p][h2]Your feedback, our demonic actions[/h2][p][/p][h3]
Clever Imp[/h3][p]Being grateful doesn't come easy to us Imps, right Pesky? But today we'll make an exception. Just don't tell the Zombies and Ghosts, okay? Anyway - we are possessed with gratitude for your feedback, opinions, and awesome ideas you shared after playing the Demo version of the game. The old mansion and its dwellers could not resist your sharp wits and the terrifying abilities of your minions, and your evil doings delivered us with some very interesting intel…[/p][p][/p][h3]Pesky Imp[/h3][p]Let me, let me! Thanks to your support, our demonic creators deep down in hell were able to better outline a direction in which our title should develop. It’s a team effort, so we are glad to have you on our side, helping us to tweak what must be tweaked, and wrap what must be wrapped. Imps thrive on critique, so it’s no surprise that I really liked your honest grumbling and precise observations. You showed us exactly where the game needed taming to become more clear and less infernal to navigate, and our work on that is already in full swing. We plan to build future experiences in line with your expectations, so we're always all ears… After all, you're the true Keepers here, aren't you?[/p][p]
But enough of this prudishness…[/p][h2]
This is just the beginning of something much more diabolical[/h2][h3]
Clever Imp[/h3][p]Where were we, ah, right! That fun Demo of ours? That's just a foretaste - a sinister sniff of the true madness that lies ahead! Believe us when we say that you’ve only licked the bone of the beast, dear players. There will be a lot of new stuff coming soon, which I believe you will like.[/p][p]
New features so unnerving, they bite; Bizarre characters that would make your grandmother faint into her soup; Eerie locations where even the wallpaper is trying to kill you; Mechanics so deadly I can’t even mention… and these are just to begin with. [/p][p]
So stay tuned, you courageous keepers! Things are about to get even weirder, wilder, and more wonderfully cursed. You will see for yourselves soon enough. I can't wait to hear your next diabolical suggestions for the future of the game, so feel free to share them on our Discord server, Social Media channels and Steam discussions. Keep them coming, aight? [/p][h3]
Pesky Imp[/h3][p]They don’t even know what they signed up for… khi! [/p][p]
Best regards,
The Clever and Pesky Imps.[/p][p] [/p][p][/p]