Game Information

Developer: SZ Games

Rating:

4/5

Released: April 2024

Last Updated: June 2025

Technology: HTML5 (Unity WebGL)

Platform: Browser

Size: ~15 MB

Plays: 25,545

Mobile Support: No

About The New Resident

Dive head-first into an unsettling world with The New Resident, an indie horror adventure that will keep you on the edge of your seat from start to finish. Set in a town plagued by unexplained disappearances, every missing person shares one ominous connection: the mysterious company, ManneCorp. Driven by curiosity and courage, you'll step into the shoes of an amateur investigator determined to uncover the dark secrets lurking within the shadows.

This browser-based, free-to-play horror game delivers instant thrills without requiring any downloads or sign-ups. Crafted for the Two-Minute Horror Jam, The New Resident manages to pack suspense, atmosphere, and narrative depth into a compact, easy-to-play package. The rich, chilling ambiance will instantly appeal to fans of psychological horror, with ambient soundscapes and meticulously designed low-poly graphics that build an eerie sense of dread around every corner.

You’ll navigate darkened environments using classic WASD controls, while your mouse allows you to look around for clues—or potential threats hiding in plain sight. The game cleverly leverages the flash bulb mechanic, letting you illuminate danger zones at critical moments, heightening both tension and strategy. Simple controls mean players of all skill levels can dive right in, but don't let the accessible design fool you: every choice matters, every second counts, and every shadow could be hiding something sinister.

The New Resident is perfect for fans of quick but memorable horror experiences—there's no lengthy tutorial, just immediate immersion in an ever-tightening web of suspense. The sequel is available for those who crave more mysteries and scares, making this the perfect starting point for a thrilling saga. Whether you’re a die-hard indie horror enthusiast or a casual gamer looking for a spine-tingling treat, The New Resident promises a story-driven challenge packed with dread, surprises, and a haunting plot twist you won't see coming.

Ready to brave the unknown and uncover the truth behind ManneCorp? Start your investigation now and see if you have what it takes to survive the darkness.

How to Play

Getting started with The New Resident is refreshingly simple, making it accessible to both new and experienced gamers. Begin by launching the game in your browser—no downloads, no waiting, just immediate suspense.

Move your character using the WASD keys, a classic control setup beloved by PC gamers for its precision. To observe the ominous world around you, use your mouse to freely look in any direction. This ability is crucial: watch for subtle clues, lurking threats, and interactive objects that may be hidden just out of direct sight.

When navigating menus or making choices, simply press the Enter key to confirm selections. As you explore, interactive points appear within the environment—engage with them using the E key. Each interaction might reveal vital information about ManneCorp, trigger unexpected scares, or open new pathways in your investigation.

The flash bulb, triggered by pressing the Space bar, is your most valuable tool against the unknown. Use it to briefly illuminate dark corners, expose lurking dangers, or uncover hidden details in critical moments. Manage your use wisely, as careless timing might leave you vulnerable.

Beginner Tips:

- Stay alert for subtle environmental details—they often hint at hidden dangers or secret routes.

- Read every note or clue carefully, as the backstory enriches the experience and hints at what to do next.

- If you find yourself lost, retrace your steps and illuminate shadowy areas again with your flash bulb—you may notice something new.

- The game’s difficulty is approachable, focusing more on atmosphere and story than frantic action, so soak in every eerie sound and unsettling sight.

- Don’t be afraid to explore: the more you investigate, the more layers of the chilling ManneCorp mystery you’ll unravel.

Immerse yourself in the gripping narrative and see if your detective instincts will lead you safely through the shadows.

Controls

mouse

keyboard

Tips & Tricks

Ration your flash bulb uses—wait for moments of maximum suspense or uncertainty before activating.
Explore every nook and cranny—even seemingly mundane objects can reveal important clues.
Carefully read all notes and environmental hints; they may suggest solutions or warn of looming dangers.
Move slowly and listen for changes in the audio; distinct sounds might signal an approaching threat.
Don’t rush the investigation—sometimes pausing to examine your surroundings reveals hidden story elements.
Pay close attention to ManneCorp references; they’re often critical for piecing together the story.
If you feel stuck, retrace your path and interact with previously overlooked objects for new insights.

Game Features

Atmospheric, story-driven horror experience ideal for quick play sessions
Clever use of light mechanics with the flash bulb adds strategic depth
Dark, unsettling graphics and haunting ambient audio create intense suspense
Browser-based—play instantly without downloads or installation
Accessible difficulty and intuitive controls for all player levels
Engaging narrative with hidden clues and plot twists to discover
Sequel available for those eager to continue the chilling story

Frequently Asked Questions

Is The New Resident really free to play?

Yes! The New Resident is a free indie horror game you can play directly in your browser via itch.io—no registration or downloads required.

How long does it take to complete The New Resident?

The game is designed for a short, intense experience, often completed in under 10 minutes. However, exploring every detail and uncovering all secrets may take longer.