Is Friday the 13th: The Game Still Playable in 2023? A Comprehensive Guide
Yes, Friday the 13th: The Game is still playable in 2023. However, the situation is a bit more complex than a simple yes or no. While the game was delisted from digital storefronts (like Steam, PlayStation Store, and Xbox Marketplace) on December 31, 2023, meaning you can no longer purchase it, those who already own the game could still play it online via peer-to-peer matchmaking throughout 2024. The single-player component, featuring AI bots, also remains functional.
The expiration of the license is the primary reason for this state of affairs. Gun Interactive’s license for the Friday the 13th intellectual property expired, leading to the cessation of sales. Let’s dive deeper into the details and answer some common questions you might have.
What Happens Now That The Game Is Delisted?
The Impact of the License Expiration
The expiration of the Friday the 13th license had several key consequences:
- No new sales: The game is no longer available for purchase digitally or physically. So, if you don’t already own a copy, you’re out of luck unless you find a used physical version.
- No new content: Development on the game ceased some time ago, mainly due to legal issues surrounding the franchise’s rights, further compounded by the license expiration. Don’t expect any new maps, counselors, Jasons, or game modes.
- Eventual server shutdown: The biggest blow for fans of the online multiplayer experience. While the game remained playable throughout 2024 for existing owners, the official dedicated servers were shut down on December 31, 2024.
Peer-to-Peer and Single Player
The good news is that Gun Interactive implemented a peer-to-peer matchmaking system after the initial legal issues cropped up. This allowed players to connect and play together even without the official servers fully functional. This functionality was maintained, allowing players who owned the game to continue playing throughout 2024 via peer-to-peer.
Furthermore, the single-player mode, where you face off against AI Jason bots, is fully functional offline. If you enjoy the gameplay but prefer a less competitive environment, this is a viable option.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I still buy Friday the 13th: The Game?
No, Friday the 13th: The Game was removed from sale on December 31, 2023, due to license expiration. It’s no longer available on digital stores like Steam, PlayStation Store, or Xbox Marketplace, and no new physical copies are being produced. You may find used physical copies from private sellers, but digital downloads are no longer an option.
2. When did the Friday the 13th servers shut down?
The dedicated servers for Friday the 13th: The Game were shut down on December 31, 2024.
3. Is there an offline mode in Friday the 13th: The Game?
Yes, Friday the 13th: The Game features a single-player offline mode where you can play as a counselor against AI-controlled Jason bots. This mode is fully functional, even after the server shutdowns and delisting.
4. What happens to my progress and unlocks in Friday the 13th: The Game?
Leading up to the delisting, Gun Interactive unlocked all content for all players. This means all counselors, Jasons, perks, and kills were made available to everyone, negating concerns about losing progress or previously earned items.
5. Why was Friday the 13th: The Game delisted?
The delisting was a direct consequence of the expiration of Gun Interactive’s license to use the Friday the 13th intellectual property. Without a valid license, they were legally obligated to cease sales and eventually shut down the servers.
6. Was the Friday the 13th lawsuit resolved?
Yes, the legal battle between Victor Miller (writer of the original Friday the 13th screenplay) and Sean S. Cunningham (director) concluded in September 2021. Miller won the rights to the original screenplay, but the lawsuit contributed to development issues and uncertainty surrounding the game’s future.
7. What is the max level in Friday the 13th: The Game?
The maximum level in Friday the 13th: The Game is 150. Before the delisting, all players were automatically leveled up to 150 and granted access to all perks and kills, excluding those tied to DLC.
8. Who is the best counselor in Friday the 13th: The Game?
This is subjective and depends on playstyle. However, some consistently highly-ranked counselors include Vanessa Jones (high speed and stamina), Adam Palomino (good repair and strength), and Chad Kensington (luck-based).
9. Are there any other similar games to Friday the 13th: The Game?
Yes, several other asymmetrical multiplayer horror games exist. Popular options include Dead by Daylight, Texas Chainsaw Massacre, and Evil Dead: The Game. These games offer similar gameplay dynamics of survivors versus a powerful killer.
10. Why can’t I connect to Friday the 13th: The Game?
If you are experiencing connection issues, it could be due to server problems or network issues on your end.
11. Will there be a new Friday the 13th game?
While there’s no official announcement of a new Friday the 13th game in development, the possibility remains open. The resolution of the legal issues and potential new licensing agreements could pave the way for a future title.
12. Was Friday the 13th: The Game based on a true story?
No, Friday the 13th is a fictional horror franchise. While some aspects may draw inspiration from real-life anxieties or urban legends, the story of Jason Voorhees is entirely fabricated.
13. Can I play Friday the 13th: The Game on PS5?
Yes, Friday the 13th: The Game is playable on PS5 via backward compatibility. However, some features available on PS4 may be absent. Ensure your PS5 is updated to the latest system software for optimal performance.
14. What is the gameplay of Friday the 13th: The Game like?
Friday the 13th: The Game is an asymmetrical multiplayer horror game where seven counselors must try to survive and escape Camp Crystal Lake while being hunted by Jason Voorhees. Counselors must work together to repair vehicles, find weapons, and avoid being killed by Jason. Jason has various abilities to track down and eliminate the counselors.
15. What are some tips for surviving in Friday the 13th: The Game?
- Stick together: Teamwork is crucial for survival.
- Utilize windows and doors: Use these to your advantage to evade Jason.
- Choose characters wisely: Select counselors based on their strengths and your playstyle.
- Communicate effectively: Coordinate with your teammates to develop escape plans and warn each other about Jason’s location.
- Don’t panic: Stay calm and collected under pressure.
The Legacy of Friday the 13th: The Game
Even with its delisting and server shutdown, Friday the 13th: The Game leaves behind a significant legacy. It was a unique and enjoyable take on the asymmetrical multiplayer horror genre, bringing the iconic slasher franchise to life in a way that resonated with fans. Its dedicated community, combined with its blend of stealth, strategy, and jump scares, made it a memorable experience.
While the game’s future is uncertain, its impact on the genre is undeniable. It demonstrated the potential of adapting classic horror IPs into engaging multiplayer experiences. The lessons learned from its development and community engagement will likely influence future games in the genre.
Exploring the intricacies of game development, design, and community, like what happened with Friday the 13th: The Game, can be fascinating. The Games Learning Society ( GamesLearningSociety.org ) offers resources and insights into the intersection of gaming and education. It’s a valuable platform for understanding the broader context of game development and its impact.