After nearly three decades since its original release, Clock Tower, the horror classic developed by Human Entertainment, is finally making its way to the Western gaming market. WayForward, in partnership with Limited Run Games, has announced the arrival of Clock Tower with a host of new features and a fresh localization.
WayForward’s version of Clock Tower, referred to as a “Port+,” aims to faithfully recreate the original SNES experience while offering additional elements to enhance the gameplay.
This new edition includes an animated opening, “motion-comic cutscenes,” a vocal theme by Mary McGlynn (known for her work on the Silent Hill series), and quality-of-life features such as save states. These additions bring a fresh perspective to the classic game while staying true to its original charm.
WayForward’s Clock Tower will utilize the Carbon Engine developed by Limited Run Games, a platform specializing in porting vintage titles to modern hardware. This partnership ensures that Clock Tower will receive a physical release through Limited Run Games on select platforms. Further details about the physical release will be revealed at a later date.
The Horrifying Origins of Clock Tower
Clock Tower, originally released in 1995 on the Super Famicom in Japan, immerses players in the eerie Barrows family manor, where they face the relentless pursuit of Scissorman, a murderous psychopath armed with shears.
Players assume the role of teenage orphan Jennifer Simpson, navigating the mansion’s chilling halls and uncovering secrets while avoiding Scissorman’s attacks. With no means of fighting back, Jennifer must rely on her wit and resourcefulness to survive and uncover multiple endings.
The game’s tense atmosphere, chilling sound effects, detailed 2D animations, and randomized elements have solidified Clock Tower as a pioneering title in the survival-horror genre.
Modern Enhancements and Features
This new edition of Clock Tower, powered by Limited Run Games’ Carbon Engine, preserves the authentic gameplay, graphics, and sound of the original while introducing modern enhancements.
These include a new vocal theme performed by Mary McGlynn, an animated opening, motion-comic cutscenes, a bonus art gallery, border artwork, save states, multiple language options, and more. These additions bring new life to the classic horror experience, ensuring it appeals to both longtime fans and newcomers alike.
Release Details and Platforms
Clock Tower will be digitally published by WayForward in North America and Europe, with a physical version available on select platforms through Limited Run Games. Further information, including details on the physical preorder window, will be announced at a later date. For the latest updates, fans can visit the official websites of WayForward and Limited Run Games and follow their social media accounts.
Fans eagerly anticipating this retro horror gem can look forward to its release on the Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox, and PC in early 2024.
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