The immensely popular Netflix original series Squid Game has become the inspiration for an indie video game of the same name. Fans have shown interest in some kind of interactive adaptation of the world-famous South Korean show since its debut this year, with YouTuber Mr. Beast even recreating Squid Game's challenges in real life, and some fans remaking Squid Game minigames in GTA Online.
Squid Game premiered in September 2021 to high acclaim from both audiences and critics. The show follows a handful of down-on-their-luck South Koreans as they navigate through a series of sadistic and lethal games organized by a shadowy organization. The last contestant left alive at the end of the games is promised a bevy of reward money, which keeps the participants motivated to see the game through to its brutal end. The games in question are deadly versions of traditional children's games like Red Light, Green Light and Marbles. The show received heaps of praise for its critique of late-stage capitalism and its stunning cinematography, and while some took issue with the ultimate twist, the game has still earned enough of a following to warrant fan works, like a recent piece of fanart depicting Legend of Zelda's Link as a Squid Game contestant.
Criticisms of the show's ending aside, many fans will likely be excited to hear that there is officially a playable video game based on the show. Developer Farwal took to Twitter earlier today to promote his Squid Game PC game, published on the popular video game platform itch.io. Players can enjoy iconic challenges from the show, including Red Light, Green Light and Glass Stepping Stones, with other events like Tug of War still in development. Multiplayer and voice chat are also available features. Farwal states that more updates are on the way, but the 1.0 version of the game is currently free to download.
The itch.io page for the title claims that it was developed in just twenty-six hours which, if true, is incredibly impressive. While a parody game entitled Crab Game was released last month, Farwal's project appears to be much more faithful to the original series. While this could result in some issues with copyright down the road, it is certainly a more accurate and serious recreation of the TV show, which should make it more appealing to fans.
Having said that, it is likely only a matter of time before a big-budget, officially licensed Squid Game video game adaptation is revealed. Given the success of the show and its focus on inherently engaging, high-stakes activities, it would not be a surprise if a more established video game developer announced a game within the next year or so. Until that happens though, Squid Game fans are sure to get a kick out of this low-budget indie title.
Source: Farwal/Twitter, itch.io