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Halloween: The Video Game already has one high-profile fan: Halloween creator John Carpenter

“Ever since I began playing video games, I’ve always thought that Halloween would make a fantastic game," John Carpenter told the crowd at PAX East 2026

News by Graeme McMillan, Editor

Published on Sat Mar 28 2026

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We’ve already shared our excitement around the upcoming Halloween: The Video Game, an adaptation and expansion of the 1978 horror classic, but PAX East 2026 featured an even more important endorsement for the game: that of John Carpenter, the filmmaker that created the franchise.

Appearing via webcam from his home in California — he even joked about the weather in Boston, where the show takes place every year — Carpenter has long been a vocal gamer. Even so, it might have been a surprise for fans at PAX East to hear him say, “Ever since I began playing video games, I’ve always thought that Halloween would make a fantastic game.”

Asked about the parallels between making a game and making a movie, the veteran director behind The Thing, Escape From New York, Christine, Big Trouble in Little China, They Live and countless other iconic movies alongside the Halloween series demurred.

“Video games are an art form unto themselves, very different than movies, so I don't compare them,” Carpenter said, “but if I'm playing a horror game, what the big deal is [is that] I want to be scared and [have] one chance to survive, but probably I won't. And the games that I play, the scarier ones, you know, the monsters come around the corner out of the darkness? They're faster than I am, and they kick my ass.”

When it was pointed out that Michael Myers isn’t necessarily faster but just “walks all the time,” Carpenter joked, “Great decision for that,” adding, “He’s inevitable. You know, you can’t stop it. He’s coming.”

As to when he’ll be coming, fans have to wait until September 8 — but the game is already available for pre-order.

The gaming industry has come a long way since Pong blew all our minds in the 70s. We've got everything you need to know about the next big thing in games. Of course, Grand Theft Auto VI is going to be the big game of 2026, but there are plenty of other games coming out between now and then. Here is our starter guide for every gamer:

And be sure to check Popverse regularly for the latest gaming news.

About PAX East

PAX East is a celebration of gaming and gaming culture featuring thought-provoking panels, a massive expo hall filled with the best publishers and studios, new game demos, musical performances, tournaments, and a community experience unlike any other. No matter your preferred genre or platform, if you love games, welcome home.

Dates

Mar 26 - Mar 29

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Graeme McMillan: Popverse Editor Graeme McMillan (he/him) has been writing about comics, culture, and comics culture on the internet for close to two decades at this point, which is terrifying to admit. He completely understands if you have problems understanding his accent.