Cosy and horror aren't two things we often put together, but Buddy Simulator 1984 is billed as a wholesome horror game all about friendship. And publisher Feardemic has revealed that Not a Sailor Studios' game is coming to Switch on 27th October, just in time for Halloween!

Buddy Simulator 1984 first launched on Steam in February 2021, and currently sits on a 'Very Positive' rating after over 2,700 reviews. On the surface, the game looks very Undertale-esque, with simple pixel-art visuals, black-and-white locales, and even the little ghost you walk around as. But, look closer, and you might be able to spot the curvature of an old computer screen. In Buddy Simulator 1984, you're playing a game on your PC in-game, an AI simulation experience that allows you to hang out with a digital best buddy.

Sections of the game play out like old-school RPG text adventures, while other parts have you playing games with your new AI friend. Well, this all sounds rather lovely so far, doesn't it? Nothing could go wrong with the "game within a game" concept, could it? Could it...?

We should probably expect our hearts to get ripped out, then. Many reviews on Steam recommend you go in with as little info as possible, but maybe the press release will at least help enlighten us slightly?

The technology is finally here! BUDDY SIMULATOR 1984 utilizes the next generation of AI science to simulate the experience of hanging out with your best buddy. Your buddy learns, adapts to your personality, and, most importantly, plays games with you!

Have you ever felt lonely? Like you wanted someone to talk to? A best friend perhaps? Well, look no further! Thanks to next-generation AI technology made in the newAnekom OS, BUDDY SIMULATOR 1984 simulates the experience of hanging out with your best buddy! Your best buddy learns from you, constantly adapting to your interests and personality. Say your favorite color is green, of course, your best friend will remember!

Thanks to the latest and greatest graphical software, our top video game scientists were able to find a way for a computer to play games with you, talk to you, andbecome someone you can really trust!

Features:
Video Game Hub! - Can you beat your buddy in an intense game of rock, paper, scissors? What about a dangerous game of hangman?
AI Learning!
- Your buddy will evolve to better adapt to your interests and make sure you are having fun together!
New and Unique Experience!
- Your experience with Buddy Simulator 1984 will be unique and unlike anything you have ever played before!

By playing Buddy Simulator 1984, you are helping the scientific community take a major leap towards the future of artificial intelligence.

So what are you waiting for? Pick up a copy for your Anekom system today!

WARNING: GAME EXPERIENCE MAY VARY!

Those old DOS-style screens and text exchanges are making us feel a little old! But even if the game is marketing itself as a heartwarming experience, this definitely has "one of those" feelings — we can't shake it. It's those red eyes.

Buddy Simulator 1984 launches on 27th October on the Switch eShop — it'll cost $9.99 USD / £8.99 (or your regional equivalent).

Are you intrigued by this unusual text adventure/RPG? Will you be seeking out a new digital buddy? Let us know!