The Phantom Fellows Press Kit

The Phantom Fellows is about two best friends who start a paranormal investigation business together, since one of them is already dead. 

The Phantom Fellows is a point-and-click adventure comedy that seamlessly blends classic elements with modern twists and innovations. Chunky pixels are artfully combined with ethereal lighting effects, creating a visually captivating experience. While the gameplay may appear traditional at first glance, it’s enriched with exciting enhancements that draw you deeper into its immersive world.

Immerse yourself in a week of The Phantom Fellows, where each day introduces a fresh case, new challenges, intriguing characters, and plenty of laughs. Throughout the journey, an overarching narrative simmers in the background, gradually intensifying until it reaches a dramatic climax on the final day.

Each case in The Phantom Fellows presents dual challenges: the breathers who hired you and the ghosts that haunt them. You can switch between Oliver and Englebert to navigate the world, leveraging the unique advantages of a non-physical form when needed. Enjoy the dynamic interplay between two distinct personalities, each offering their own perspective on the case and its characters. The ability to swap between characters unlocks on Day 2.

The Phantom Fellows strives to evoke the sense of an open world. On Day 3, a fast-travel map becomes available, allowing you to revisit all previous locations, including Oliver’s home. Returning to these places is always rewarding, offering alternate puzzle solutions and new interactions with both familiar ghosts and living characters. While you’re never required to leave your current location to progress, if you recall an item from around town that might be useful, you can easily return to retrieve it and see what happens!

The in-game hint system in The Phantom Fellows is seamlessly woven into the narrative. As Oliver’s elder mentor, Englebert naturally steps in to offer guidance when needed. Simply engage him in conversation, and he’ll provide hints that gradually increase in detail, similar to the classic Universal Hint System. Englebert respects your curiosity, giving you just enough information to spark an idea, but never more than you wish to know. You can exit the conversation when you’re ready to proceed, or press him for further clues, culminating in the solution.

The Phantom Fellows encourages thorough exploration, rewarding players with a world that deepens with every click. Each item on screen elicits a unique response, with both Oliver and Englebert offering their own distinct perspectives when you Look-At or Interact-With objects. This dual commentary not only delivers plenty of laughs but also sprinkles in fun facts and thought-provoking insights along the way.

The Phantom Fellows, though rooted in comedy, offers a deeper experience for players. The ghostly mentor, Englebert, guides Oliver with wisdom and philosophical musings, encouraging him to discover his potential—insights from someone who's already moved beyond the bounds of life.

The soundtrack of The Phantom Fellows is an ambient take on synthwave, blending the playful energy of John Carpenter with the atmospheric depth of Vangelis. This unique fusion creates a soundscape that perfectly complements the game's tone, balancing lighthearted moments with moody, immersive undertones.

Paul Korman, the solo developer behind The Phantom Fellows, was born in South Jersey and has long called Colorado home. As the writer, artist, musician, and programmer, Paul brings every aspect of the game to life*. A long-time co-host of the adventure game-focused CGG Podcast, Paul is both a solo dev and solo dad to his son, Strummer, for whom his publishing company, Strummer Games, is named.