Tencent Subsidiary Unveils Free-to-Play 'Horrorverse' Tac...

Grey State Studio, a subsidiary of Tencent Games, has officially announced its new free-to-play title, "Rules of Engagement: The Grey State." This tactical RPG shooter is set to launch on PC in 2026, promising a unique blend of horror and extraction gameplay.

The game introduces players to a terrifying "Horrorverse," an unstable dimension known as "The Grey State," teeming with nightmarish creatures. Players will assume the role of "Striders," elite operatives tasked with venturing into this dangerous realm.

Described as a PvEvP experience, "Rules of Engagement: The Grey State" challenges players to scavenge for valuable artifacts and extract before time runs out. The game emphasizes strategic decision-making and class-based progression within its high-stakes environment.

Grey State Studio, formerly known as Aurora Studio, is recognized for its previous titles like "Ring of Elysium" and "Moonlight Blade." The Shanghai-based developer aims to "Chart the Uncharted" by fusing unexpected elements into the shooter genre.

The upcoming title will be free-to-play, with developers assuring a player-friendly business model focused solely on cosmetic in-game purchases. This approach aims to avoid any "pay-to-win" mechanics, prioritizing fair competition.

Players can anticipate an alpha test featuring four distinct classes, each with extensive talent trees for deep customization. The game supports solo play or teams of up to three, offering varied tactical opportunities.

Background and Developer's Vision: Grey State Studio, a Tencent Games subsidiary, was formerly Aurora Studio, known for "Ring of Elysium" and "Moonlight Blade." Established in 2007, the studio operates under the motto "Chart the Uncharted," striving to innovate within established genres. Their goal with "Rules of Engagement: The Grey State" is to push the boundaries of tactical shooters by integrating deep RPG progression and a supernatural horror universe.
The "Horrorverse" Concept: The game's central setting, "The Grey State," is an unstable dimension described as a "graveyard of nightmares" and a "Horrorverse." This realm is populated by creatures inspired by a wide array of horror media, including iconic monsters from films, novels, and internet creepypasta, with Lovecraftian elements also present. This expansive horror theme is designed to offer a constantly evolving and terrifying experience.
Core Gameplay Loop and Player Role: In "Rules of Engagement: The Grey State," players take on the role of "Striders," elite operatives remotely piloting bio-engineered shells into The Grey State. Their mission is to retrieve a priceless artifact called "The Vertex" amidst horrific monstrosities and rival squads. The gameplay features a high-octane PvEvP extraction loop, where squads deploy with basic gear, scavenge for better equipment, and must decide between early, safe extraction or risking it all for greater rewards.
Monetization and Business Model: The game will adopt a free-to-play model, with Grey State Studio committing to a "cosmetics-only" in-game shop. This strategy aims to ensure that success in the game is based on skill and strategy rather than financial investment, fostering a player-friendly environment. The developers have explicitly stated there will be no "pay-to-win" elements, aligning with current trends in ethical free-to-play game design.
Class System and Progression: "Rules of Engagement: The Grey State" will feature a class-based RPG progression system. An upcoming alpha test will introduce four distinct classes, with three already revealed: Sledge (a juggernaut with shield and hammer), Pyro (a chaotic madman controlling fire and gas), and Phantom (a swift assassin). Each class will boast a sprawling talent tree, allowing players extensive buildcrafting options and encouraging strategic team synergy.
Release and Future Content: The game is slated for a PC release in 2026, with alpha playtests anticipated earlier that year. It will be available on platforms like Steam and the Epic Games Store. Grey State Studio has expressed long-term commitment to the title, planning continuous content updates, meta shakeups, and seasonal content to expand the "Horrorverse" and maintain player engagement for years to come.