Free-to-Play Horrorverse Shooter Rules of Engagement: The Grey State Announced for PC in 2026
Tencent’s newly established subsidiary, Grey State Studio, has officially announced its debut project, Rules of Engagement: The Grey State. The title is a free-to-play first-person shooter set in a dark, multidimensional horror universe and is currently scheduled for release on PC in 2026.
Rules of Engagement: The Grey State is set within an unstable realm known as The Grey State, a terrifying dimension where players must survive against both monsters and rival human squads. The game merges PvPvE elements, combining fast-paced tactical combat with intense survival horror.
Players assume the role of Strider, a mysterious operative tasked with retrieving an artifact known as The Vertex. Each mission sends Strider deeper into the corrupted dimension, where reality distorts and nightmarish entities lurk.
The cinematic trailer introduces the oppressive atmosphere and narrative tone of The Grey State, while the gameplay trailer provides an early look at class-based mechanics, cooperative dynamics, and environmental design. Despite being in the alpha development stage, the footage already demonstrates a strong technical foundation and creative ambition.
The game’s standout feature is its “Horrorverse” concept, a shared world that may continue to evolve with new creatures and horror icons drawn from various mythologies and pop culture influences. While its core gameplay structure may feel familiar to fans of other shooters, its creative direction and setting aim to establish a distinct identity within the genre.
At present, Rules of Engagement: The Grey State is confirmed for PC release in 2026. Grey State Studio has not yet announced console editions, but additional platforms such as PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S may be considered as development progresses.
With Tencent’s backing and a promising blend of competitive shooting and horror atmosphere, Rules of Engagement: The Grey State could become a defining title in the next generation of multiplayer horror games.
What are your thoughts on Tencent’s entry into the horror-shooter arena? Do you think The Grey State can stand out among its competitors? Share your opinions below.
