Hazel's day is nothing short of legendary. After a heated argument with her mother, she finds herself losing her in the chaos of a hurricane. Amid the wreckage, she encounters dangerous haints—fearsome black-and-red creatures—and realizes that she has the extraordinary ability to see and manipulate the glowing strands that weave the fabric of reality itself. Oh, and let’s not forget about the talking catfish who becomes her unlikely ally!

Unleashing the Shadows: A New Kind of Adventure

The forthcoming action-adventure video game, *South of Midnight*, is generating buzz for its unique take on American folklore and Southern Gothic literature at a time when many titles revolve around more conventional heroes like Vikings, samurai, and knights. This game delves into the rich tapestry of American mythology, a passion project of Compulsion Games’ creative director, David Sears. Growing up in Mississippi, Sears was deeply inspired by the haunting stories told by his grandmother. These tales, laden with the eerie essence of Southern folklore, have shaped not only his childhood but also the very foundation of this game.

A Journey Through Myth and Memory

The game’s design team embarked on research trips to regions steeped in folklore—from the Mississippi Delta to the Appalachian Mountains and the Great Dismal Swamp—discovering a variety of myths to include in their world. For instance, the rougarou, a creature rooted in Cajun legend, is adapted in the game as an owl-like figure, embodying themes of rage and a loss of control.

Sears emphasizes the importance of ensuring every creature in *South of Midnight* has depth and soul, a concept he admired in filmmaker Guillermo del Toro’s work. "It’s about uncovering the humanity hidden in monsters," Sears shares, bridging the gap between horror and empathy.

Navigating Pain and Healing in a Gothic Landscape

Though visually stylized with influences from stop-motion animation, *South of Midnight* tackles heavy themes of tragedy and the scars left by trauma. Lanier, another key figure in the game’s development, describes their commitment to Southern Gothic storytelling, highlighting the harsh realities and emotional depth inherent in the genre.

The game is set to launch for Xbox Series X|S and PC this week, combining traditional exploration and combat mechanics while presenting a poignant narrative. Hazel is not merely a warrior; she embodies the spirit of a healer, tasked with mending the world's pain—each encounter with the haints leaving a trail of light and blooming flowers in her wake.

A New Kind of Heroine

Hazel’s weaponry is as innovative as her journey. Utilizing tools like weaver’s hooks and a drop spindle, her arsenal symbolizes creativity and rebellion, drawing from American quilting traditions—art forms that served as both storytelling and empowerment, especially during the era of slavery.

Interestingly, Hazel's narrative subverts classic "chosen one" tropes. Instead of inheriting her powers through bloodline or destiny, she is chosen by the land itself—a refreshing narrative twist that reinforces anyone can be a 'weaver,' becoming champions for those who have been oppressed.

Confronting Brutality Through Compassion

Throughout her journey, Hazel encounters the talking catfish named Catfish, who guides her past obstacles in the swamp. Her quest reveals chilling stories of loss, family betrayal, and the painful realities of human cruelty—reminding players that sometimes acknowledgment is the first step toward healing.

In a powerful narrative turn, Hazel learns of two brothers whose tragic backstory culminates in a shocking act of brutality that reshapes her world. The game takes players through harrowing sequences paired with mournful ballads, ultimately allowing Hazel to bear witness to pain while promoting the message of compassion and understanding—her superpower lies in her ability to truly see and feel the struggles of others.

*South of Midnight* emerges not just as a game, but as an experience steeped in folklore, exploring the shadows of human experience with grace, creativity, and heartfelt storytelling.