There Are No Ghosts at the Grand: A Haunted Hotel Renovation... 2026

There Are No Ghosts at the Grand is a unique indie game that blends renovation simulation, ghost hunting, and musical comedy into one unforgettable experience. Set in a crumbling British seaside hotel, you play as a young American man who inherits the property from his absent father and must restore it to its former glory—while battling spectral visitors at night.

What Makes There Are No Ghosts at the Grand Stand Out?

Developed by Bristol-based independent studio Friday Sundae, the game grew from a simple goal: to tell a very British ghost story. Creative director Anil Glendinning and his partner Rachel spent countless hours exploring National Trust properties, intrigued by the half-restored, half-decayed rooms guarded by red ribbon tape and stern pensioners. That inspiration became the core gameplay loop: stripping away moldering wallpaper, vacuuming debris, rearranging furniture, and applying fresh paint during the day—then fighting ghosts at night.

Gameplay Mechanics: Renovation Meets the Supernatural

Your primary tools are power tools that talk to you in a Scottish accent (hello, Robert C McBrushy) and a magical paintbrush. As you work, other characters—many based on real people—comment on your choices and the room's history. The game cleverly weaves narrative into every action, making each renovation decision feel weighty. At night, the hotel transforms into a haunted arena where you must defend your progress using ghost-busting upgrades earned during the day.

The mix of genres—simulation, adventure, rhythm-based combat, and even musical numbers—works surprisingly well. The soundtrack features original songs that break the fourth wall, adding a layer of whimsy that keeps the tone from becoming too dark.

Why Gamers Are Talking About This Haunted Hotel Game

There Are No Ghosts at the Grand has been praised for its originality in an era dominated by sequels and remakes. Its blend of renovation and ghost hunting is fresh, and the British humor (baffling slang, sarcastic tools, and eccentric locals) offers a welcome departure from typical horror game tropes. The game even includes a fatherhood theme, with Robert C McBrushy serving as a multi-faceted father figure—sometimes wise, sometimes angry—reflecting Anil's own experiences growing up in Scotland.

• Unique genre fusion: Renovation sim meets ghost shooter meets musical.
• Rich storytelling: Every room has a history, and characters are based on real people.
• High replayability: Different renovation choices lead to different ghost encounters and endings.
• Accessible gameplay: Easy to pick up, with satisfying progression systems.

System Requirements and Availability

The game is available on PC via Steam, with console ports expected later this year. It runs smoothly on mid-range hardware, though the ghost effects are best enjoyed with a good graphics card. Friday Sundae has also announced free DLC that adds new rooms and ghost types.

FAQ

There Are No Ghosts at the Grand is a refreshing indie title that proves you can still find something truly original in the gaming world. Whether you're a fan of simulation games, ghost stories, or just want a good laugh, this haunted hotel renovation adventure is well worth checking out. Grab it on Steam and start fixing up the Grand today—just be careful what you find behind the wallpaper.