At Gamescom, a wide slate of upcoming titles was put through its paces, and one standout expectation among attendees was Ghostbusters: Spirits Unleashed. Developed by the studio behind the lively co-op roguelite Arcadegeddon, IllFonic, this title follows the franchise’s signature 4v1 asymmetric multiplayer formula. Players switch between ghost hunters and a single ghost, creating a dynamic tug-of-war of strategy, teamwork, and reflexes that feels both familiar and fresh.
The experience places a Ghost Hunter team in charge of tracking down and capturing a spectrum of supernatural entities. In a hands-on demo conducted at the fair in Germany, squads of four teamed up to challenge Slimer, giving players a vivid sense of the equipment and tactics that define the genre. The familiar Ghostbusters toolkit is front and center: the Ecto backpack for mobility and gadgetry, a handheld sensor to detect paranormal activity, proton packs for primary containment, and the ectoplasm launcher that drives the core capture mechanic into the ghost trap. Each tool feels tangible, with clear, satisfying feedback that mirrors the film lore fans recognize.
Just as in the films, the game blends high-tech gear with portal mechanics that open gateways to alternate dimensions. The demo showcased a sprawling map segmented into multiple rooms where the Ghostbusters navigate, seal off portals, and defend critical zones. The environment invites players to use everyday objects as defensive cover or strategic nesting spots, turning lamp boxes, wall plaques, and furniture into tactical assets. The objective remains simple in its essence: locate and close the rifts, then secure the area before the opponent gains too much control. Destructible chaos is kept in check by the game’s resource economy, which rewards clever play over reckless shooting.
Unlike many titles that rely on scripted AI, Spirits Unleashed pits four real players against a single, autonomous ghost in a constant state of adaptation. The lone ghost character wields unique improvisational freedom, changing tactics as the chase unfolds. That means teamwork isn’t optional; it’s essential. When Slimer makes a move, teammates must coordinate to corral and corner the entity, or risk losing the lead. NPCs present on the map add another layer of tension, reacting to the chase and occasionally zipping between rooms to complicate the pursuit. There’s a genuine sense of risk and reward as players balance aggression with containment strategies.
The game offers broad appeal, catering to players who prefer cooperative play, as well as those who enjoy the cat-and-mouse thrill of competing against a formidable foe. Even in close matches, Slimer’s presence keeps everyone on their toes, since closing all portals is the primary objective, while capturing the ghost remains a critical secondary goal. In practice, successful rounds often hinge on timely portal closures and smart gadget usage—moments that reward communication and split-second decision making more than brute force.
Aesthetically, Spirits Unleashed embraces the vibrant, comic-book palette fans expect from the Ghostbusters universe. Visuals strike a balance between playful caricature and grounded sci-fi hardware, offering a lively but cohesive look that remains legible in the heat of multiplayer skirmishes. The audio design reinforces the mood, delivering crisp cues and satisfying weapon sounds that heighten tension without becoming overwhelming. Taken together, the presentation sustains a tone that’s lively and accessible while maintaining a level of polish that matches its ambitious multiplayer concepts.
Since launch, the game has become available on multiple platforms, with PC players gaining entry through the Epic Games Store. Console availability spans PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and Xbox One, ensuring a broad audience can dive into the Ghostbusters experience. The ongoing balance between puzzle-like portal management, strategic gadget use, and high-stakes chases makes Spirits Unleashed a compelling pick for fans of the franchise and newcomers alike. Its blend of cooperative coordination and competitive ghost play offers a unique, entertaining cadence that stands out in today’s crowded multiplayer landscape.