Filipino developers are crafting a unique niche in horror gaming with “Ligaw,” a game that takes a refreshingly realistic direction. Departing from supernatural elements and mythical creatures, Raven Studios has drawn inspiration from an unexpected source—the pandemic’s delivery riders.
Nestled in Caloocan City, “Ligaw” puts players in a delivery rider’s shoes facing unnerving challenges. What sets this game apart is its dedication to authenticity. As players navigate dimly lit eskinitas, they’re not only battling terror but also grappling with a familiarity that resonates deeply.
At its core, “Ligaw” seems simple: the objective is to deliver packages. Yet, encountering a customer requesting a delivery inside an unoccupied home triggers a sinister turn. Retrieving keys from a nearby sari-sari store sets off events that shatter the mundane into a nightmarish ordeal. From the Divine Mercy portrait to beer racks, every detail seems to have a life of its own, adding to the suspense.
“Ligaw” is more than a game—it’s an exploration of the emotional toll faced by delivery riders during the pandemic. The eerily relatable setting and expertly timed jump scare immerse players in a world that hits close to home. The game delves into the psyche of essential workers who bore the pandemic’s impact. By spotlighting challenges and mental strains, the game becomes a reflection of our collective experience. It’s a reminder that the most horrifying monsters stem from struggles of reality.
Since its debut as a capstone project at the University of Caloocan City in 2022, “Ligaw” has garnered over 6,000 downloads, a testament to its ability to strike a chord with gamers. Its resurgence on TikTok nods to authenticity and attention to detail. The game currently has 1 chapter out, with new chapters expected to follow suit.
“Ligaw” isn’t just a game. It’s a testament to delivery riders’ resilience and an exploration of the human psyche under pressure. Whether it continues to haunt screens or fades, Raven Studios has succeeded in creating a narrative that blends reality and fiction—a testament to essential workers’ spirit facing the unknown. After all, reality often holds terrors more chilling than imagined horror.
