The Skin Stapler, which combines the aesthetic of 1980s VHS slasher films with the visuals of early 3D horror games, has officially launched on Steam.

U.S.-based solo indie developer Tainted Pact and German publisher Assemble Entertainment announced the release of the story-driven horror game The Skin Stapler on PC via Steam.

Inspired by 1980s VHS slashers, exploitation films, and early PlayStation-era horror games, The Skin Stapler follows a serial murder investigation set in 'Carrion City,' a sprawling urban landscape of neon lights, decaying alleys, and blood-stained buildings.

In 'Carrion City,' a serial killer is turning the entire city into a gruesome gallery, displaying victims' bodies like grotesque works of art. The investigation is led by Dick Slater, a world-weary veteran detective, and his rookie partner, Robbie Knox.

The duo must scour the crumbling streets and blood-soaked interiors to track down the culprit. Players follow the killer's trail by examining crime scene evidence and audio tapes, gradually uncovering the full scope of the case and the city's hidden secrets as new victims are discovered.

Audio recordings found throughout the city reveal the killer's twisted psyche and the background of the crimes. As the investigation deepens, what initially appeared to be a simple string of murders leads to a more horrific truth, blurring the line between reality and madness.

The game focuses on delivering a dense, high-impact horror experience within a short playtime. It maintains tension through eerie exploration, graphic depictions of violence, and unpredictable encounters, while incorporating cynical black comedy to capture the atmosphere of classic slasher films.

The game also features a gritty screen texture and retro 3D graphics. By combining vibrant yet ominous neon lighting, a decaying and grimy cityscape, and visuals reminiscent of early PlayStation games, the developers have emphasized the unsettling and alien atmosphere of 'Carrion City.'

Tainted Pact is a California-based solo indie game developer. Driven by a passion for horror films and games, the developer creates titles that blend retro visuals with the tropes of the slasher genre. Their portfolio includes Flesh Made Fear, Massacre at the Mirage, Terror at Oakheart, and Suffer the Night, in addition to The Skin Stapler.

Assemble Entertainment is a German independent game publisher founded in 2016. They have released over 50 games across various genres, including cozy, horror, strategy, and roguelike titles, such as Sticky Business, Roadwarden, Decktrader, Paddle Paddle Paddle, Grind Survivors, and the Endzone franchise.

The Skin Stapler was released on August 6, 2026, and is currently available on PC via Steam for ₩15k.