Supernatural handyman simulator The Lift set for PS5 release in 2027

Fantastic Signals has announced the upcoming release of their new game, The Lift, a unique simulator that combines elements of supernatural intrigue with handyman gameplay, set to launch on PlayStation 5 in 2027. The game invites players to assume the role of a handyman tasked with reviving an abandoned research facility shrouded in mystery.

Ivan Slovtsov, the studio director at Fantastic Signals, expressed enthusiasm for the project, highlighting the innovative blend of sci-fi storytelling and engaging sim gameplay. The game challenges players to restore the Institute, a vast research center left in disarray following a mysterious disaster. As players progress, they will uncover a conspiracy that led to the facility’s downfall.

The Lift aims to merge the enjoyable aspects of first-person repair games with the intricate narratives found in immersive sims such as Prey. The development team, known for their work on titles like Pathologic 2 and Ori and the Will of the Wisps, is dedicated to crafting a rich, story-driven experience.

The game draws inspiration from the Strugatsky brothers, celebrated Soviet science fiction authors. While influenced by their novel Roadside Picnic, The Lift takes cues from another of their works, Monday Starts on Saturday, which satirizes bureaucratic systems while showcasing human ingenuity.

Set in a retrofuturistic world, players will work to restore the Institute’s five key areas: the Post Office, Communication Center, Archive, Library, and Reactor. The game’s namesake lift acts as both a mode of transportation and a customizable headquarters for crafting and upgrades.

Throughout the game, players will tackle diverse restoration tasks, from repairing furniture to managing interdimensional communications. As they advance, they will gain access to new tools and meet an array of characters who contribute to unraveling the Institute’s secrets.

The developers are excited for players to explore the world of The Lift and utilize the unconventional tools available. The game will feature various enhancements on the PlayStation 5, including DualSense controller haptics and adaptive triggers, promising a fully immersive experience when it launches in 2027.