Ghost in the machine

Composition is everything in this otherworldly musical exploration game

Composition is key in musical adventure Haunted Garage

On the surface, it all looks so simple. “I’ve been working in this ‘clear line’ art style for over a decade, so it’s what comes naturally,” artist and illustrator Jean de Wet tells us. “Having said that, we’re definitely paying a nostalgic homage to the early ‘visually limited’ video and computer games from the ’80s.”

But Haunted Garage has layers. It’s an adventure game set across multiple dimensions, where exploring one world summons unusual instruments to tinker with in another. “The contraptions are inspired by electronic musical devices from the ’70s,” de Wet says. “Analogue synthesisers and drum machines are an inspiration in terms of functionality and aesthetics – but always with a slightly humorous element.” Fiddle with buttons, knobs, switches and strings and you’ll find yourself creating a bespoke looping soundtrack. A picture-in-picture view lets you wander landscapes, peering into portals while remaining in the studio: “Although there is a variety of styles, there is also a distinct golden thread that will draw all of them together,” de Wet explains.

The curious machines are a constant, controlled by seemingly unknown forces: “None of the sensibilities adhere to any normal state of being, and you are forced to make sense of things as you go along.” This peaceful, paranormal space will haunt a PC near you next year.