Kinetic Publishing Unveils Sam Barlow’s ‘Precognition’ at First Showcase

Kinetic Publishing, the independent label established by the development team behind the co-op horror title Phasmophobia, has hosted its inaugural games showcase. The event marked the publisher’s first public presentation since announcing its publishing arm in January, revealing a slate of five new titles scheduled for release throughout 2027 and 2028.

The headline announcement is Precognition, the next project from Sam Barlow, known for his previous narrative-driven works Telling Lies and Immortality. Previously referred to by the working title Project C, the game will feature full-motion video sequences and nonlinear storytelling mechanics. Barlow’s studio, Half Mermaid Productions, is collaborating on the project with film director Brandon Cronenberg, recognised for Infinity Pool and Possessor.

In Precognition, players assume the role of Diana, a woman who receives visions of the future following the implantation of an experimental brain device. The gameplay involves exploring these future sequences and committing specific details to Diana’s memory. This act of remembrance directly alters the timeline, meaning that prescience carries immediate consequences for the unfolding narrative.

Precognition is set to launch in spring 2028. The release will be available on Nintendo Switch 2, PC, PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series X/S. Kinetic Publishing confirmed that the other four titles unveiled during the showcase will also launch on these same platforms, though specific release dates for these additional games were not detailed beyond the general 2027 to 2028 window.

The formation of Kinetic Publishing reflects a broader industry trend where successful independent developers leverage their financial success to publish other titles. This model has been adopted by studios such as Pocketpair, behind Palworld, and Black Tabby Games, creators of Slay the Princess, as they expand their influence in the market.