The Exit 8 Steps Out of the Game, Live-Action Film Confirmed
Product Announcements | Extended Reality | Games
2-minute read
The game "Exit 8," which has made it onto Japan's 2024 Buzzword Awards list, is truly a phenomenon. We've previously discussed how it's available not only on PC and VR but also on VRChat. This game lets you experience the eerie sensation of being trapped in a maze in various immersive ways. And this year, we might even get to watch "Exit 8" in theaters as a live action movie.
The familiar Exit 8 logo and underground passage. (Source: Toho)
The gameplay of "Exit 8" is straightforward, with no complex controls. As a player, you walk through a brightly lit, unnaturally white underground passage, observing for any "anomalies." If you spot one, you must turn back immediately. You need to make the right decision eight times in a row to escape this endless loop. While there are no ghosts, the fear of being unable to escape is intense, which is part of the game's unique charm.
Now, Toho Pictures has announced that "Exit 8" will be adapted into a live-action film, set to release in 2025. The trailer features the familiar underground passage, with sound effects and camera work perfectly replicates the game. The eerie atmosphere is heightened by a little girl's voice narrating, "Don't ignore any anomalies. If you find one, turn back immediately. If not, don't turn back."
What's most surprising is the trailer's ending, where a familiar office worker turns to you with a chilling smile that sends shivers down your spine.
Why does it feel oddly humorous? (Source: Toho)
The game's developer, KOTAKE CREATE, was quite surprised at the game's explosive popularity and was thrilled when approached for a movie adaptation. He recalled, "When I received the movie offer, I wondered, 'How can a game without a story be adapted into a film?' However, the final product not only perfectly retains the ‘Exit 8’ world and atmosphere but it is also seemingly a charming movie! I had the chance to visit the film set and see the familiar underground passage and the suited man from the game come to life, which was truly amazing! I hope everyone looks forward to the movie's release, as I am eagerly anticipating it myself!"
I'm really curious about what it will be like to experience the fear of an endless loop of ‘Exit 8’ in a theater, and I'm also curious about the movie's runtime. The answers will be revealed when it hits theaters in 2025. Stay tuned!
