Filipino gamers and horror enthusiasts alike have been captivated by “Hapunan,” a viral horror game that’s taking the indie scene by storm with its unique blend of suspense, action, and authentic Filipino culture. Developed by 21-year-old Filipino prodigy Josef Nikolaus “Yikon” Yenko, “Hapunan” has quickly amassed over 200,000 downloads and topped Itch.io’s sales charts since its release just two months ago. The game’s success is a testament to its innovative approach—mixing jump scares and a narrative steeped in the country’s recent history—with a twist that resonates both locally and internationally.
“Hapunan” puts players in the shoes of Niko, a young street food vendor who must navigate the eerie, nocturnal streets while selling beloved Filipino treats like balut. However, the game quickly turns dark as players encounter ominous figures lurking in the shadows. In a surprising twist, these aren’t supernatural monsters, but rather police officers engaged in pay-to-kill schemes, reflecting the harsh realities of the nation’s recent socio-political landscape. This clever subversion of typical horror tropes not only delivers genuine frights but also offers a poignant commentary on local issues, making “Hapunan” much more than a conventional scare-fest.
In an exclusive interview, Yikon shared how his passion for video games ignited at the tender age of eight with titles like Dota, Diablo, and League of Legends. Inspired by his older brother, Stephen Nathan Yenko, who initially ventured into game development, Yikon picked up the mantle as his brother’s enthusiasm waned. Since then, he has honed his craft by creating numerous mini-games on platforms like Itch.io, each project building his expertise and ultimately culminating in the breakthrough that is “Hapunan.” His journey underscores the vibrancy of the Filipino indie game development scene, which has been steadily gaining global recognition for its creativity and cultural depth.
The indie game’s low price point—$3.99 (PHP 231.88) on both Windows and Android—combined with its rich storytelling and innovative gameplay, has made it a must-play title. With both local and international streamers praising its intense gameplay and authentic cultural references, “Hapunan” is rapidly emerging as a standout example of how indie developers can challenge mainstream horror conventions and offer fresh perspectives on familiar themes.
