MADHOUSE

About

MADHOUSE is a single player and multiplayer hack and slash game with a horror theme. It was developed by Paul Hubans and was released on October 1, 2025. It received overwhelmingly positive reviews from players.

Madhouse is a horror action RPG where chibi characters slash and blast enemies in blood-soaked combat. Explore a dreary open world in the story campaign, or fight friends in the chaotic local 4-player versus mode. With retro pixel art and punk horror grit, it delivers macabre, thrilling action.

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100%

Audience ScoreBased on 10 reviews

humor2 positive mentions

story3 negative mentions

MADHOUSE offers a charming blend of dark humor and classic horror themes, creating a cozy yet unsettling atmosphere that resonates with fans of retro games.
The multiplayer Versus Mode is highly praised for its chaotic fun, unique character abilities, and engaging gameplay, making it a standout feature of the game.
The single-player mode is filled with creative storytelling and enjoyable exploration, showcasing the developer's love for B-Horror movies and providing a nostalgic experience.

As an Early Access title, MADHOUSE has some rough edges and the story is only partially complete, which may leave some players wanting more.
The single-player mode can be challenging, which might frustrate some players who prefer a more casual gaming experience.
Some players may find the simple 8-bit graphics off-putting, despite their nostalgic charm and the atmosphere they help create.

story
14 mentions Positive Neutral Negative
14%
65%
21%
The story in the game is described as reminiscent of classic horror films, delivering a bold narrative that doesn't shy away from intense themes. While currently in early access and partially complete, players appreciate the engaging story mode, which combines exploration, challenging combat, and rich character development, making it a standout feature of the game. Overall, the story mode is highly praised for its immersive experience and compelling gameplay.
- “The story isn't afraid to put something in it either; it'll tell the story it wants to tell without toning it down or babying you into liking it, it'll just full on hit you with what it wants to happen, and it's really great for that!”
- “From the maps, story, puzzles, characters, to just all of it, the story mode is one of the best times you'll ever have!”
- “Given that it's early access, it's worth noting that there are some rough edges and the story is only partially complete.”
- “The story of Madhouse really feels like an older horror movie plot.”
- “The combat in the story mode is honestly pretty tough, but you never get bored or want to give up; it makes you excited to try it again, especially in the boss fights!”
music
11 mentions Positive Neutral Negative
9%
64%
27%
The music in the game is a standout feature, effectively capturing the essence of classic horror films with its eerie synth soundtrack and nostalgic 80s vibe. Collaborations with talented musicians like Paledeth have resulted in custom tracks that enhance the game's atmosphere, earning high praise from players. Overall, the music is consistently rated as exceptional, with many reviewers giving it a perfect score.
- “It's a perfect homage to classic horror movies—think VHS grain, creepy synth soundtrack, and that unsettling 80s vibe that gets under your skin.”
- “One thing Phubans doesn't make is the music, but it's understandable when you have the god that Paledeth is!”
- “In the original, Phubans used music from Paledeth as the background music, but in this madhouse, Paledeth is now working with Phubans to make custom music for the game!”
- “No other sound fits this game more than his, and I'd check out some of Paledeth's other music too!”
graphics
2 mentions Positive Neutral Negative
50%
100%
The 8-bit graphics contribute to a uniquely creepy atmosphere, allowing players' imaginations to enhance the experience reminiscent of classic games. Despite their simplicity, the visuals effectively convey a sense of heart and terror.
- “The 8-bit graphics somehow make it even creepier, letting your imagination fill in the blanks just like in the old days.”
- “The 8-bit graphics somehow make it even creepier, letting your imagination fill in the blanks just like the old days.”
- “Don’t let the simple visuals fool you—there’s real heart (and terror) in here.”
humor
2 mentions Positive Neutral Negative
100%
The humor in the game is characterized by its abundance of naturally occurring funny moments and quirky characters encountered throughout diverse environments. Players experience a continuous stream of comedic situations, enhancing the overall enjoyment and engagement as they navigate through the action.
- “It makes you feel powerful dashing through the various locales like suburbs, sewers, a military base, and a carnival, and you can meet a bunch of funny weirdos along the way.”
- “It's just full of funny moments that happen naturally and back-to-back; there's really no downtime when you're scrambling for items from chests and seeing someone get exploded across the map at the same time.”
atmosphere
2 mentions Positive Neutral Negative
100%
50%
The atmosphere is highly praised for its tense and moody qualities, creating a genuinely unsettling experience that enhances the overall immersion in the game.
- “The game immerses you in a hauntingly beautiful world that feels alive and filled with secrets.”
- “Every sound and visual detail contributes to an overwhelming sense of dread and anticipation.”
- “The atmosphere is chef's kiss—tense, moody, and genuinely unsettling at times.”
gameplay
1 mentions Positive Neutral Negative
100%
The gameplay is praised for its intricate design, featuring uniquely themed arenas that incorporate distinct mechanical gimmicks, enhancing the overall experience.
- “I was impressed with the amount of bespoke details in each arena, which are based around a unique theme and mechanical gimmick.”