Chicago, Illinois — September 2, 2025 — Indie studio Abscure has announced Orson, P.I.: Midnight at the Grand Hotel, a mystery game starring the world’s cuddliest crime-fighter. Set in a lavish hotel, players take on the role of the titular character — a bear cub with a craving for freedom, justice, and chocolate chip cookies. Twelve guests, their true intentions unknown, are planning a caper on the hotel’s central vault. Your job is to uncover who’s part of the conspiracy and stop the heist before it begins. The game is slated for a Steam release in the first half of 2026.
We open on a cryptic note falling into our hero’s paws. It speaks of a “devious dozen” set to “strike at midnight.” Orson, the rookie of the hotel’s security team, sees this as a chance to move up in the ranks. He resolves to solve the case from top to bottom — who, what, when, where — to prove himself to his boss. The player guides Orson as he pieces together the puzzle to save the hotel’s reputation — and his.
The bulk of the investigation involves interviews with the hotel’s patrons. Guests at the posh locale are often celebrities, giving Orson a useful cover. Instead of putting suspects on the hot seat, he gains their confidence by posing as a “high school reporter” writing an article about the stars of the Grand Hotel. He asks about their likes and dislikes, hopes and regrets, friends and foes. Alongside a few hardball questions, these conversations give the player a clear sense of who’s telling the truth — and who’s not.
About Abscure
Abscure is a game developer and publisher based in Chicago, Illinois. Since 2008, Abscure has made lighthearted games with colorful worlds and memorable characters. Their upcoming title, "Orson, P.I.: Midnight at the Grand Hotel" will introduce a cuddly crime-fighter with a big appetite.