Fatal Frame franchise guide: putting fright in focus

By Jenni Lada // 10.31.1610.31.16

“Inspired by a true story” are the five words that can both inspire delight and strike fear in the hearts of anyone looking for something spooking to enjoy. Koei Tecmo has been using that approach to help sell the Fatal Frame series for years. By offering fictional locations, rituals and situations inspired by Japanese folklore and history, the company has provided people with a shooter that involves defeating ghosts with cameras to survive otherworldly encounters. Join us as we go through the catalog of Fatal Frame games.

Wii U

Ren Hojo is the luckiest character in Fatal Frame history

By Jenni Lada // 10.29.1510.25.15

People starring in Fatal Frame games aren’t going to have the best times. Things happen to these folks. Even if they end up with a good ending, there’s usually some cloud hanging overhead. The original game set a precedent, with Miku Hinasaki being forced to leave the haunted house without her brother, Mafuyu. In the case of Fatal Frame III, the normal ending leaves Kei Amakura dead. Seems like things don’t work out very well for men in this series, huh?

Review Wii U

Review: Fatal Frame: Maiden of Black Water invites players to dive in

By Jenni Lada // 10.19.1511.11.15

Fatal Frame encourages love-hate relationships. The lore, premise and scares easily lure people in, leaving good first impressions. Unfortunately, cheap ghosts that pop up out of nowhere for a battle, confusing locations that leave a player constantly consulting a map, constant backtracking and frustrating controls have always held the series back. While Fatal Frame: Maiden of the Black Water doesn’t miraculously fix everything, it makes positive strides forward toward a more healthy relationship.

Wii U

Fatal Frame: Maiden of Black Water needs so much space

By Jenni Lada // 10.14.1510.17.15

Are you one of those fine, 32GB Wii U owners? You probably feel pretty secure in your purchase, because it’s the biggest system Nintendo sells. I mean, it’s really the only model the company moves anymore, what with the 8GB Wii U having been phased out. But let me tell you something right now – Fatal Frame: Maiden of Black Water is going to dominate your system.