The 14th Axe Wound

3.8 / 5

30,566 plays

adventure

Game Information

Developer: SZ Games

Rating:

3.8/5

Released: April 2024

Last Updated: June 2025

Technology: HTML5 (Unity WebGL)

Platform: Browser

Size: ~15 MB

Plays: 30,566

Mobile Support: No

About The 14th Axe Wound

Step into the chilling world of The 14th Axe Wound, an electrifying browser-based indie adventure that turns the slasher genre on its head. Created for the Hawktober Horrors 2024 game jam, this darkly comedic HTML5 experience challenges you to outwit the infamous undead serial killer, Mason Mourder, in a forest pulsing with danger and secrets. As a member of a group of living clichés—think the athlete, the prankster, the bookworm—you're not just running for your life; you’re armed with an arsenal of unconventional tools: stinky cheese, springy slingshots, a mean right hook, and hallucinogenic mushrooms that could change the tide.

Every moment is thick with tension, as the legend proves more gruesomely true than any of your crew expected. Every axe wound is a warning—if Mason strikes you for the 14th time, it’s game over in the most final way. The story-driven gameplay keeps you on your toes through 35 minutes of reactive choices, strategic resource management, and dark humor. Will you try to stick together or split up? Brave the haunted hideouts for loot or creep stealthily through the shadows? Each decision can mean life or death.

The 14th Axe Wound stands out with its tongue-in-cheek writing, nostalgic pixel art, and an atmospheric soundtrack that sends shivers up your spine. Every character in your group brings unique abilities—and the banter and one-liners will keep you grinning even as your heart races. The game’s non-linear structure and secret paths ensure every playthrough offers fresh surprises. But beware: its medium difficulty means both casual players and horror veterans will find a satisfying challenge. So grab your virtual flashlight, steel your nerves, and see if you can survive Mason Mourder’s twisted game. Play The 14th Axe Wound for free online and prove your horror IQ in this unforgettable indie adventure!

How to Play

Launching The 14th Axe Wound is a breeze—just visit the game’s page on itch.io from your desktop browser (note: not mobile compatible), and click ‘Play’. Start by selecting your character from a quirky clique of classic stereotypes, each with their own unique stats and survival skills. In this story-driven adventure, your primary goal is simple—dodge Mason Mourder’s attacks and make it out of the forest alive!

Controls are intuitive: use the arrow keys or WASD to move your character around the pixelated forest. Interact with objects and environmental clues using the spacebar or mouse clicks when prompted. Stumble upon items—like that block of stinky cheese or a handy slingshot—and access your inventory with ‘I’. To use an item, select it in the menu and confirm your choice. Strategic use of limited resources is key, so plan when to fight, distract, or make a mad dash to the next hiding spot.

Keep an eye out for regular flashing prompts—these are quick-time events (QTEs) that can be the difference between dodging a fatal strike or taking another wound from Mason. Reading environmental cues, collaborating with your group, and making on-the-fly decisions all determine your fate. New players should prioritize learning the map and experimenting with different item combinations. Above all, never lose track of your axe wound count—14 is the magic (or fatal) number!

Controls

mouse

keyboard

Tips & Tricks

Explore every nook—you’ll uncover powerful items and secret paths often missed.
Save your stinky cheese until you’re cornered; it’s a surefire way to distract Mason.
Use quick-time events to your advantage by staying calm and watching for patterns.
Switch between group members for unique abilities in tough situations.
Watch for unique dialog—character clues often hint at hidden escape routes.
Use mushrooms wisely; their effects are unpredictable but can change the game.
Keep track of the wound counter—a cautious retreat is sometimes smarter than fighting.

Game Features

Quirky character roster—play as classic horror clichés with unique skills.
Dark humor and satirical storytelling that lampoons classic horror tropes.
Fast-paced survival mechanics with resource management and QTEs.
Multiple endings and branching paths for high replay value.
Atmospheric pixel art and immersive, retro-inspired soundtrack.
Fully browser-based: play instantly, no downloads or installs required.
Medium difficulty—accessible but challenging for both newbies and horror veterans.