Key Takeaways
- Kickstarter campaign launched to raise $15,000 by November 30.
- Free playable demo now available on Steam, with ongoing content updates planned.
- Inspired by Phasmophobia, but focused on hunting Appalachian cryptids instead of ghosts.
- Developed by Jade & Company, founded by solo developer Jade Meadows.
- Features co-op and solo play, proximity chat, and a retro PS1-style aesthetic.
- Launching in 2026 via Steam Early Access for $9.99, with Steam Deck Verified support.
Blue Ridge Hunting Brings Cryptid Horror to the Appalachian Mountains
Fans of horror and folklore have something eerie to look forward to with Blue Ridge Hunting, an upcoming indie title that merges the investigative gameplay of Phasmophobia with the unsettling myths of the Appalachian wilderness. Instead of chasing ghosts, players will be stalking cryptids — mysterious creatures like the Mothman, Bigfoot, and The Flatwoods Monster.
The game began as a solo project by developer Jade Meadows in early 2023 and has since evolved into a full-scale production under her newly founded indie studio, Jade & Company.
Kickstarter Campaign Now Live
The development has taken a major step forward with the launch of its Kickstarter campaign, aiming to raise $15,000 by November 30. The campaign is structured as all-or-nothing, but fans needn’t worry — Blue Ridge Hunting already has a publisher secured: Six One Publishing, known for supporting promising indie horror projects.
Even if the campaign doesn’t meet its target, the project’s future looks secure thanks to that partnership.
Free Steam Demo Available Now
Coinciding with the Kickstarter launch, a free demo of Blue Ridge Hunting is now live on Steam. The demo offers players a hands-on taste of the game’s haunting environments and cryptid encounters, and it can also be wishlisted for updates.
The developers plan to expand the demo over the coming months with new locations, gameplay tweaks, and additional cryptids. Designed for 2–3 player co-op, the game can also be played solo, featuring both a Freeplay mode and a story campaign. The campaign follows a group of friends who set out to track down one of the Appalachian region’s most famous monsters — the Mothman.
Retro Visuals and Creepy Realism
Visually, Blue Ridge Hunting embraces a gritty PS1-inspired aesthetic, complete with analog-style textures and eerie lighting that evokes the mood of early 3D horror classics.
Communication is a key mechanic, with proximity chat allowing players to strategize — but also drawing the attention of lurking cryptids. As the game warns: “The monsters are always listening.”
This mechanic blends realism and tension, making every sound a potential risk as players explore forests, abandoned cabins, and mist-covered ridges.
Early Access Launch and Price Details
Blue Ridge Hunting is set to enter Steam Early Access in 2026, with the first version expected to include about one-third of the planned content. Jade & Company plans to remain in early access for roughly a year, gathering community feedback before the full release.
The game will retail for an affordable $9.99, a price that the developers promise will remain unchanged even after its early access phase. While currently confirmed only for PC, the title will also be Steam Deck Verified, ensuring smooth portable play.
Given that 2025 is nearly over, a late 2026 release appears most likely.
A Promising Indie Horror for Cryptid Fans
By combining cooperative survival mechanics, regional folklore, and a chilling retro presentation, Blue Ridge Hunting stands out as one of the most intriguing indie horror titles on the horizon.
Fans of Phasmophobia and Fallout 76’s cryptid lore will find plenty to love here — especially with the added tension of being both hunter and hunted in the eerie Appalachian wilds.
With its Kickstarter now live and free demo playable, there’s no better time to start tracking what could become the next cult classic in cooperative horror gaming.
Disclaimer: The information in this article is for general purposes only and does not constitute financial advice. The author’s views are personal and may not reflect the views of GameDegen.com. Before making any investment decisions, you should always conduct your own research. GameDegen.com is not responsible for any financial losses.
