Equal parts spine-chilling and socially biting, Hapunan proves that the scariest monsters don’t need fangs—they just need power. This Filipino indie game reveals a chilling narrative that combines traditional culture with unsettling realities, reminding players that sometimes the scariest monsters are those lurking in plain sight.

What happens when a simple dinner turns into a feast of fear? Hapunan, the latest indie horror game by Filipino developer Yikon, serves a nail-biting experience steeped in Filipino culture, proving that tradition can be equally terrifying and fascinating. Initially launched on Jan. 23, the game emerges as a uniquely Filipino horror experience that turns the mundane into the macabre.

Translated to “Dinner” in English, Hapunan quickly garnered attention for its unique blend of storytelling, cultural themes, and engaging gameplay. It stands out in the indie gaming scene as a powerful representation of Filipino artistry and storytelling, attracting both local and international audiences.

Grab your flashlight
In Hapunan, players step into the shoes of Niko, a balut vendor whose quest for a business permit leads to a terrifying adventure that quickly unravels into a tangled web of corruption involving the Barangay Captain and other shady associates. As he navigates this treacherous landscape, Niko confronts harrowing choices and uncovers unsettling truths about his community and family.

Police brutality, corruption, and filial piety are the game’s most significant themes, serving as a poignant commentary on the socio-political landscape of the Philippines. Drawing inspiration from historical events like extrajudicial killings, Hapunan uses horror to highlight the grim realities many Filipinos endure. 

What sets the game apart is its seamless blend of Filipino culture, folklore, and socio-political critique. Hapunan proves that it’s not merely about jump scares; it's about confronting the real-world horrors lurking beneath the surface of daily existence. Through fusing cultural elements with suspense, it delivers a powerful message about resilience amidst systemic oppression.

Outside the dialogue

Hapunan utilizes a low-poly aesthetic that is akin to a nostalgic trip down memory lane, reminiscent of the early 3D gaming era. This choice not only enhances its charm but also crafts an eerie atmosphere that envelops players in the haunting essence of Filipino neighborhoods.

But while this style can evoke nostalgia, it may not meet the expectations of players accustomed to more modern graphics. This may detract some players from immersion.

Sound design is pivotal in horror gaming because it sets the mood and the tone. In Hapunan, however, the sound design has proven to be a bit of a mixed bag that leaves players wondering whether to scream in terror or eye-roll in nonchalance.

While the game effectively uses ambient sounds to create a tense atmosphere with background noises, such as distant cries or unsettling whispers that enhance the feeling of dread and keep players on edge, there is a noticeable lack of variety in some audio cues. Repetitive sounds diminish tension over time, making encounters feel less impactful as players become desensitized to familiar audio triggers.

The Scream

With over 100,000 downloads shortly after its release, Hapunan has sparked interest in supporting Filipino developers and showcasing local talent on a global stage. Through the promotion of  local narratives and experiences through gaming, the game encourages a sense of pride and identity among Filipinos.

It also presses on the importance of supporting local talent in the gaming industry. As it gains global traction, it opens doors for further investment and interest in Filipino-made games, potentially leading to a more diverse gaming landscape that includes unique cultural narratives.

Hapunan stands out not just as a horror game but as a cultural artifact that invites players to confront real-world fears through the lens of Filipino experiences. This Filipino indie horror gem spices up its scares with a dash of cultural critique, proving that real monsters often wear human faces. Forget jump scares; Hapunan serves up a side of reality that’s as unsettling as it is thought-provoking.

Eat your fears out with Hapunan, available on itch.io for Windows and Google Play Store for Android.