When a game opens with “when the curtain rises, the nightmare begins”, you already know it’s not aiming for cosy. FairPlay Studios and Red Dunes Games have confirmed that Nightmare Circus is targeting a 2026 release on PC and consoles, with a launch window currently pointed at Q2 2026.
The hook for Nightmare Circus is deliciously twisted: you’re an innocent puppeteer dragged into the Nightmare Realm, a dreamlike madhouse that’s spilt out of a travelling circus gone wrong. The goal is simple on paper and grim in practice: explore shifting landscapes, fight off nightmarish creations, and rescue lost performers while you dig into the secret behind the realm and look for a way back out.
What makes it stand out is the way combat leans into the puppeteer fantasy. Instead of just swinging a weapon and calling it a day, you’re using strings to snare enemies, slam them into each other, and turn positioning into part of your damage. It’s presented as a “every clash is a performance” kind of brawler, backed by puzzles and exploration across an estimated eight to 12 hours.
If the vibe sounds familiar, that’s intentional. The press materials position it as a tight, skill-based action-adventure with atmospheric exploration, aimed at players who enjoy Death’s Door or Tunic, just with more circus glitter and a lot more “why is that smiling at me?” energy.
Nightmare Circus demo is available now
The best part is you don’t have to wait to see whether the “cute and creepy” balance lands. A demo is available now on Steam, including the current Steam Next Fest build.
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