Smile or Die: Facial Recognition Horror
[TOKYO, Japan] – [Jan. 6, 2026] – Independent game developer Smiley Dog Studio announces the launch of the Steam store page for DON’T STOP SMILING, a first-person psychological horror game using real-time facial recognition
In this game, the player’s facial expression is constantly monitored via webcam. The moment the player stops smiling, the game ends.
This unique mechanic transforms the player’s own face into the controller, forcing them to maintain a smile even through situations designed to provoke fear, disgust, and moral unease.
Steam Store Page: https://store.steampowered.com/app/4229600/DONT_STOP_SMILING/
DON’T STOP SMILING is a first-person psychological horror experience set within the eerie confines of a Japanese public high school.
Inspired by looping corridor horror exemplified by P.T., the game challenges players to navigate an ever-changing school hallway. However, there is a twist: you are forced to maintain a smile under increasingly disturbing circumstances.
Unlike traditional horror games, there are no monsters chasing you and no combat-based threats. There is only one way to lose: the moment your smile fades, it’s Game Over.
Facial Expression–Based Interaction
Using a webcam, the game analyzes the player’s facial expressions in real time, weaving them directly into the gameplay loop.
Smiling and subtle changes in facial expression all affect progression, making the player’s emotional state an active part of the horror experience.
Morally Uncomfortable Puzzles
The puzzles in DON’T STOP SMILING are not designed to feel satisfying or clever when solved.
Instead, the actions required to progress—such as being complicit in harmful acts involving others or making morally troubling choices—are intentionally crafted to evoke guilt, disgust, and psychological discomfort.
These situations are designed to trigger emotions that make the player not want to smile, directly conflicting with the game’s core rule.
Product Information
– Title: DON’T STOP SMILING
– Genre: First-Person Psychological Horror
– Players: Single-player
– Playtime: Approx. 60 minutes (full version)
– Platform: Steam (PC)
– Release Date: TBA
– Price: TBA
– Developer / Publisher: Smiley Dog Studio
– Supported Languages: Planned support for 12 languages
– OS: Windows
– PC Camera Required
