Static Dress release free-to-play psychological horror game ‘The Magistrate’s Loop’

Post-hardcore band Static Dress have released a free-to-play psychological horror game The Magistrate’s Loop inspired by their new album ‘Injury Episode’.

• READ MORE: The Cover – post-hardcore crew Static Dress are crafting a consummate creative world

According to a press release, The Magistrate’s Loop “follows in the lineage of classic psychological horror games” but is also “deeply intertwined” with Static Dress’ deep web of storytelling and lore.

“Players who are already familiar with the band’s lore will recognise objects, motifs, and a handful of names from the intricate storytelling at the heart of the Static Dress universe. Players who arrive cold will be able to grasp and experience the game in isolation; The Magistrate’s Loop is built to read on its own terms first and foremost, as well as serving as an introductory experience to new fans.”

The free-to-play first-person game is available to experience here and should take between 10 and 30 minutes to complete. The game sees you exploring a creepy looping corridor alongside a soundtrack of ominous electronic music. “There is no combat, no failure screen, no game-over. The player exists within the space until the puzzle is solved. No escape.”

‘The Magistrate’s Loop’. CREDIT: Static Dress

“I want to provide any medium of escapism,” Static Dress’ vocalist Olli Appleyard told NME recently. “You’ve got a lot of bands doing a lot of good for people, [spreading] awareness, but unfortunately, I don’t want to be reminded of the real world sometimes.”

The Magistrates Loop is not Static Dress’ first video game either. In 2024, they released a Game Boy Color game inspired by their debut album ‘Rouge Carpet Disaster’. “This multi-level game breaks through the limitations of the physical realm to delve deep into the album’s multifaceted storyline, leaving no question unanswered,” read a description of the game. “Throughout this difficult conquest the player will be faced with many enemies, puzzles and challenges, elevating the immersive levels of storytelling exemplified by Static Dress across the album’s timeline.”

Static Dress’ second album ‘Injury Episode’ is out May 29.

In other news, Forza Horizon 6 have once again teamed up with drum ‘n’ bass specialists Hospital Records for an in-game radio station – but you’ll be waiting a while to stream the exclusive collection.