Ozark Brings Split-Screen Horror to Handhelds

ALTER-BOY, a development team of just three people, is preparing to release Ozark, a 2.5D tactical action horror game set in a snowy northern Canadian landscape. The title focuses on survival after a crash, offering players a choice between solo play or a cooperative experience with a friend. The game is scheduled to launch in 2026, with a primary focus on making the experience accessible for smaller groups.

Recent details shared with GN technics/gaming (en-US) highlight the game's approach to multiplayer. Instead of forcing players to stay in close proximity, the game utilizes a dynamic split-screen system. This feature allows partners to explore different parts of the environment simultaneously, reducing the friction often associated with co-op survival games where one player’s movement dictates the other’s.

Co-op play without tethering

The core of the multiplayer experience is the vertical split-screen mechanic. If players move too far apart, the screen divides to give each individual their own view. This design choice prioritizes personal freedom over the traditional requirement of constant proximity. However, for those who prefer a more intense, synchronized challenge, a forced single-camera mode is available to keep both players in the same frame at all times.

Accessibility is another key pillar of the design. Through Steam Remote Play Together, only one player needs to own the full game to start a session. This lowers the barrier to entry for friends who want to try the game together without both needing to purchase a copy. The title is also optimized for handheld devices, including the Steam Deck, ensuring the experience remains fluid on smaller screens.

Movement defines combat style

While Ozark is described as a 2.5D side-scroller, it introduces a Z-axis that allows movement front-to-back. This adds a layer of depth to the gameplay, moving beyond simple left-to-right navigation. Combat is built around this spatial awareness, requiring players to manage target selection and navigate environmental hazards while dealing with close-range enemy encounters.

The developers have also addressed the common issue of long playtimes. Ozark is designed to be completed in three to six hours. This shorter duration makes it easier for friends to coordinate a time to play together, fitting into a single evening rather than requiring multiple sessions to finish the narrative.

Short sessions for busy schedules

The concise length is a deliberate trade-off for broader accessibility. By keeping the game relatively short, ALTER-BOY aims to capture players who may not have the time for lengthy campaigns but still want a complete, polished horror experience. The game serves as a focused entry into the tactical horror genre, emphasizing tight mechanics and immediate tension over sprawling open-world exploration.

Fans can expect another look at the game on October 1 during the 28 Games Later horror showcase. This event will provide additional insights into the development process and the specific features that distinguish Ozark from other titles in the survival horror space. The upcoming release continues to build momentum for this unique, small-scale project.