VideoGames - Frankie Freako  : A Retro 3D Sidescroller Game Releasing Coming Q2 2025 

By Mulder, 20 december 2024

Fans of nostalgic horror-comedy and retro gaming are in for a treat as Frankie Freako prepares to make waves in both the gaming and film worlds. The highly anticipated video game, a retro 3D sidescroller, is set to launch in Q2 2025, delivering a prequel experience to the critically acclaimed Frankie Freako film, released earlier this year.

Developed by Bit Bot Media and FreakZone Games—the creators of The Rocky Horror Show Video Game—Frankie Freako transports players to the chaotic world of Freak World. Designed as a love letter to 1980s movie-to-game adaptations, the game offers a fast-paced, challenging platformer experience. Players will guide Frankie, Boink, and Dottie as they navigate the vibrant cityscape and the perilous Munch Tower. Their mission? To uncover the truth behind the sinister Freak Phone technology crafted by the mysterious villain Munch. The game combines expertly designed retro visuals with modern gameplay polish, ensuring both a nostalgic and refreshing gaming experience. Frankie Freako will be available on Steam and major consoles, and fans can already wishlist it on Steam here.

The game serves as a companion to the Frankie Freako film, a Canadian horror-comedy directed by Steven Kostanski (PG: Psycho Goreman, The Void). The movie premiered at the 28th Fantasia International Film Festival and hit theaters on October 4, 2024, earning positive reviews from critics. The film stars Conor Sweeney as a workaholic yuppie who stumbles upon a party hotline hosted by Frankie Freako, a mischievous rock 'n' roll goblin. What follows is a chaotic, creature-filled adventure inspired by beloved 1980s “little creature” horror films like Gremlins and Ghoulies.

Critics praised the film for its nostalgic charm and quirky execution. Barry Hertz of The Globe and Mail called it “a cinematic smoothie” blending iconic 1980s influences, while Matthew Jackson of Paste commended its understanding of retro aesthetics and genre fun. However, not all reviews were glowing—Original Cin noted that its 1980s homage might feel outdated for some audiences. For diehard fans, the Frankie Freako film is available as a special 2-disc Blu-Ray/CD combo through Raven Banner Releasing and Bit Bot Canada, allowing audiences to relive the goblin-fueled madness at home.

With its unique blend of retro gaming and cinematic nostalgia, Frankie Freako promises to capture the hearts of fans who grew up on pixelated adventures and VHS horror-comedies. Whether you’re climbing the Munch Tower or diving into the film’s creature-filled chaos, Frankie Freako is set to be a cult classic in both entertainment realms. Prepare to jump back into the 1980s—this time with a modern twist. Stay tuned for the game’s release in 2025 and experience the madness of Freak World!

Synopsis :
Workaholic yuppie Conor is in an existential rut until one night he catches a bizarre ad for a party hotline hosted by a strange dancing goblin: Frankie Freako. Could this be just the recipe to spice up his boring life?

Frankie Freako
Written and directed by Steven Kostanski
Produced by Steven Kostanski, Melanie Murray, Pasha Patriki
Starring  Conor Sweeney, Matthew Kennedy, Kristy Wordsworth, Adam Brooks
Cinematography : Pierce Derks
Edited by Steven Kostanski
Music by Blitz//Berlin
Production companies : Hangar 18 Media, Astron-6
Distributed by Raven Banner Entertainment, Shout! Studios
Release date : July 24, 2024 (Fantasia)
Running time : 85 minutes