THE SPIRIT LIFT launches on PC, blending 90s horror with deckbuilder gameplay
Players must navigate 13 floors of a haunted hotel, battling supernatural spectres and animated objects in card-based combat. The core gameplay revolves around collecting over 200 cards and 90 pieces of gear, including items like tennis rackets, disposable cameras, mood rings, and slap bracelets.
THE SPIRIT LIFT, a retro horror deckbuilder roguelike, launched on 27 January 2026 for PC, developer prettysmart games announced. The game is now available globally on PC via Steam, challenging players to survive a haunted 90s hotel using strategic card battles.
What is The Spirit Lift?
The game tasks players with assembling a team of three teen paranormal investigators from a roster of eight characters. Each character provides a unique starting deck, influencing strategy and revealing different story elements. Players must navigate 13 floors of a haunted hotel, battling supernatural spectres and animated objects in card-based combat.
The core gameplay revolves around collecting over 200 cards and 90 pieces of gear, including items like tennis rackets, disposable cameras, mood rings, and slap bracelets. According to Miko Charbonneau, Creative Director at prettysmart games, the team packed the game with secrets. "We’re even more excited to see players find all the secrets we packed into the game. Horror references, mysterious evidence files, easter eggs, hidden story paths, and the real reason why these unlucky teens are doomed to repeat their graduation night over and over," Charbonneau said in a statement.
A retro deckbuilding experience
THE SPIRIT LIFT combines the strategic depth of deckbuilders with the replayability of roguelikes, all wrapped in a distinct 90s horror aesthetic. Players will collect items, upgrade cards, and customise their loadouts to tackle multiple bosses and custom challenges. The developer states that the game rewards death, offering endless replayability that respects player time.
The release is part of a growing trend for indie games that blend established genres to create unique experiences. By focusing on a specific theme, prettysmart games aims to attract fans of both strategic card games and retro horror. The game is a notable new entry for PC players looking for a new challenge.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is THE SPIRIT LIFT?
THE SPIRIT LIFT is a retro horror deckbuilder roguelike game developed by prettysmart games. It is set in a haunted 90s hotel where players assemble a team of three teen investigators to battle ghosts using a deck of cards.
When did THE SPIRIT LIFT release?
THE SPIRIT LIFT launched globally on 27 January 2026, according to its developer, prettysmart games. The game was made available on the same day for all regions, including the UAE.
Where can I play THE SPIRIT LIFT?
The game is available exclusively for PC through the Steam digital storefront. There has been no announcement regarding a release on other platforms like PlayStation, Xbox, or Nintendo Switch.
How much does THE SPIRIT LIFT cost?
THE SPIRIT LIFT is priced at $19.99 USD. A 10% launch discount is available for a limited time. Pricing in the UAE will be based on Steam's regional conversion from the global US dollar price.
Written by
Subscribe to our newsletter
Subscribe to our newsletter to get the latest updates and news
Member discussion