SQUISHY! Horror;Survival;Rules Lite;Quick-Play / One-Shot
At-a-glance: Survival Horror • d10 System • 2+ Players + GM • Near-zero prep • Rules-lite • 1-3 hour sessions
Theme and Setting
SQUISHY! throws players into classic survival horror scenarios where death lurks around every corner. The game provides three evocative random tables for generating locations: Mystery Shrouded Towns, Sinister Manors, and Oppressive Underground Tunnels. These tables help GMs quickly establish atmospheric settings dripping with tension and dread. The horror is visceral and immediate—players are meant to feel vulnerable and hunted, with survival as the primary goal rather than heroic triumph.
Core Mechanics and Rules
The d10 resolution system keeps gameplay fast and lethal. Character creation takes minutes, not hours, with minimal stat tracking and no complex character sheets. When danger strikes, players roll d10s against target numbers—failure often means injury or death. The system emphasizes quick decision-making over tactical optimization, with the Ferocity system for creatures keeping combat terrifying and unpredictable. Survival rolls allow players to dodge attacks when possible, but the game makes clear that not every threat can be avoided.
What Makes It Unique
SQUISHY! strips survival horror to its essentials without sacrificing tension. The super-quick character creation means players can dive into the action immediately, while the included random location tables provide instant inspiration for GMs. Published by Exalted Funeral Press with striking artwork by Mike Wasion, the game delivers a complete horror experience in a compact 24-page A5 zine format. It's specifically designed for groups who want the thrill of survival horror without the overhead of complex systems.
Target Audience and Player Experience
Ideal for TTRPG newcomers intimidated by thick rulebooks, busy players seeking quick one-shot experiences, and horror fans who want lethal stakes without crunchy combat. The game scales well from intimate two-player sessions to larger groups. Veterans appreciate how SQUISHY! cuts straight to the scares, while beginners find the minimal mechanics welcoming. If you want to run a terrifying horror scenario tonight with zero preparation, SQUISHY! delivers exactly that experience.
