A quick check on Twitch is enough to see how popular Dead by Daylight has become online. The asymmetrical horror game first released back in 2016; now it’s a horror sensation.
Its success isn’t necessarily a surprise: it has gradually incorporated iconic franchises from cinema and gaming to become a hub of all things horror. “A fan told us, you know, you’re like the Smash Bros. of horror,” says creative director Dave Richard.
But the Smash Bros. of horror has also found surprising success with the LGBT+ community – drag queen Twitch streamers in particular. In turn, developer Behaviour Interactive has sought to support the community, ensuring a diverse and inclusive suite of characters that reflects the player base. They’re even working with US non-profit organisation GaymerX to soon bring the first openly queer character to the game.
Horror was at the core of the experience right from the beginning and the team were interested in asymmetrical multiplayer, something that was alluring but not yet perfected at the time. Creating a sense of fear was key, without any HUD prompts, and the game’s unpredictable nature and reliance on human players rather than AI only added to its frightening appeal.