From Children’s Show to Nightmare: The Evolution of Amanda the Adventurer

The highly anticipated sequel to the indie horror game Amanda the Adventurer has finally been confirmed for a 2024 release. With an established loyal fanbase and glowing reviews, the announcement has horror fans eager to delve deeper into the depraved world and ready to learn the hidden depths.

Amanda the Adventurer 2, image courtesy of MANGLEDmaw Games, DreadXP

What Is Amanda the Adventurer

Released in 2022, Amanda the Adventurer is an indie horror game from MANGLEDmaw and DreadXP Games. Inspired by children’s television shows like Dora the Explorer, it would be easy to first mistake the game for falling into the same genre. Yet, despite the whimsical setting alongside captivating characters, the world has a far more sinister nature. Amanda isn’t a just innocent character but, in fact, a horrifying demon. We witness her stealing the souls of children and condemning them to play in her twisted universe forever.

A fictional newspaper clipping from the "Kensdale Daily" dated March 24, 2000. The article features a photo of Sam Colton and discusses his journey as the creator of "Amanda the Adventurer." Another article on the same page discusses a Celtic relic theft. — Amanda the Adventurer 2, image courtesy of MANGLEDmaw Games, DreadXP

In the initial game, we learn that Amanda the Adventurer was a live-action television series created by Sam Colton, with the titular character portrayed by his daughter, Rebecca. When the entertainment company Hameln acquired the rights to the show, turning it into an animation, problems arose. They wanted to transform the show into an interactive adventure, so they deceived Rebecca into summoning a demon. The attempt succeeded, and Sam and Rebecca were reported missing soon after. While Sam’s fate is unknown, we know the demon now resides within Rebecca. But, despite the evil influence, traces of Rebecca still exist within Amanda. This revelation is evident through her dialogue, such as “I feel myself rotting” or “Want to know a secret? I’m out there, somewhere,” both referring to her physical body in our world. Additionally, if the player remarks on Rebecca’s past, Amanda reacts negatively, manipulating the game to fit her narrative.

Following its initial release, Amanda the Adventurer took the horror genre by storm. Gamers and horror enthusiasts were captivated by the compelling storyline, well-developed characters, and the familiar yet unique tone that set it apart from other games in the genre. The game featured a point-and-click gameplay mechanic, optional dialogue, puzzles, and multiple endings.

What To Expect In Amanda the Adventurer 2

Cartoon characters Amanda and Wooly the sheep stand cheerfully in a colorful kitchen with a stove and a pie in the background. Amanda waves at the viewer, and Wooly smiles with one arm raised. — Amanda the Adventurer 2, image courtesy of MANGLEDmaw Games, DreadXP

Amanda the Adventurer 2 follows our main protagonist, Riley Park. After narrowly escaping Amanda, she travels to Kensdale Public Library to conduct further investigation. However, as Riley continues to uncover Amanda’s horrifying history, the very same demon pursues Riley, desperate to manifest itself in our world.

Amanda, the cartoon character, stands outside a house at night with a swing set and a full moon in the background. The setting is eerie and dark, highlighting a creepy atmosphere. — Amanda the Adventurer 2, image courtesy of MANGLEDmaw Games, DreadXP

In the demo, players encounter familiar gameplay mechanics, including puzzles and optional dialogue. However, towards its conclusion, Amanda gifts the player a VHS tape with a trailer for the upcoming game. Players witness glimpses of the eerie adventures the player and Amanda will experience. But Amanda seemingly edits the footage when the viewer is close to a groundbreaking story element.

Where’s Wooly

Wooly the sheep looks terrified, with wide eyes and mouth agape, set against a glitchy, distorted purple background that suggests a horror theme. — Amanda the Adventurer 2, image courtesy of MANGLEDmaw Games, DreadXP

Many fans of the first game may recall Wooly, a sheep character who appeared to act as Amanda’s companion. But, as players delve further into the game, they realise he is just another victim. After an act of defiance, Wooly’s punishment is a botched lobotomy performed by Amanda, either with the help of the player or by herself. Following the gruesome encounter, Wooly is no longer seen for the rest of the game, hinting that he didn’t survive. It’s unclear if Wooly will appear in the sequel, but there is a nod to the character’s fate, solidifying fan theories. When asked, “If you could visit anyone in the world, who would you see,” if you were to answer Wooly, Amanda responds,

If you can find him.

Amanda the Adventurer 2, image courtesy of MANGLEDmaw Games, DreadXP

But, despite the lack of one animal character, the demo offers another. Gamers are introduced to an unnamed opossum that disrupts Amanda’s plans at every turn. The character is similar to Swiper from Dora the Explorer, known for stealing critical items from Dora during her adventures.

However, fans know symbolism holds great significance within the game, leading them to speculate on the opossum’s potential role.

Amanda, the cartoon character, holds a sharp knife in her hand with a menacing look on her face. The text below reads, "Amanda: We can use a sharp knife!" The background shows a kitchen setting. — Amanda the Adventurer 2, image courtesy of MANGLEDmaw Games, DreadXP

Following the demo, it’s clear gamers and horror fans alike are hoping to uncover the dark secrets in the upcoming sequel. Given its dedicated fanbase and escalating anticipation, it’s unmistakable that the sequel is positioned to distinguish itself within the horror genre and leave a lasting impression. Amanda the Adventurer 2 is set to be released in Fall 2024, promising an immersive experience that will captivate and terrify audiences.