How Friday the 13th: The Game Saved My Life and Restored My Love for Gaming
Writen By DaFemalePhenom 01/0//2025
Trigger Warning, talks of suicide attempts. if you or anyone is struggling mentally and need help, please click here to chat, text, or call Lifeline.
Growing up, my dad and I shared a special bond: our love for the horror genre. At just five years old, he introduced me to my first horror films, igniting a lifelong passion for special effects makeup and late-night horror or sci-fi movie marathons. These nightly traditions after his late shifts became a cornerstone of our relationship. Little did I know, that this shared love for the eerie and macabre would one day play a vital role in saving my life.
In 1990, my gaming journey began with my first Nintendo console. I had begged for years to have my own, tired of waiting for a turn on my older sister and cousin’s consoles. With games like Duck Hunt and Super Mario Bros., I dove into the pixelated worlds of adventure and fun. However, as a young horror fan, I longed for a game that reflected my favorite genre. My dad, ever the superhero in my eyes, discovered Friday the 13th for the NES, featuring Jason Voorhees, my favorite slasher icon. I remember the thrill of seeing Jason’s image on the game cover and the pure joy of unwrapping that gift. It was a challenging game with no saves or cheats, but my dad's encouragement and belief in me kept me going.
Over the years, my love for gaming grew alongside my love for horror. From Nightmare on Elm Street to PC classics like Alone in the Dark, Silent Hill, and Resident Evil, I embraced every opportunity to immerse myself in the genre. But as adulthood arrived, life took over. My mom’s battle with cancer, the responsibilities of raising a family, and the weight of grief and loss pushed my passions into the background.
By 2015, gaming—or any sense of joy—felt like a distant memory. As a wife and mother battling severe depression and facing a high-risk pregnancy, I struggled to find reasons to keep going. After delivering my premature baby in 2016, my mental health spiraled further. It wasn’t until a concerned doctor referred me to therapy in 2017 that I began to confront the depth of my struggles.
In one of our first sessions, my therapist asked me a simple yet profound question: “What made you happy before all this?” My response—gaming, watching wrestling, and sharing horror movies with my dad—set the stage for my recovery. With a 12-month PlayStation Network subscription as my “homework assignment,” I ventured into GameStop on October 13, 2017. Little did I know, this day would mark a turning point.
That visit was meant to be my last act. I had written goodbye letters and planned my departure. But fate intervened. The GameStop employee, noticing my love for horror, handed me a copy of Friday the 13th: The Game. Released that very day, the game featured Jason Voorhees and promised a modern, multiplayer horror experience. My dad, coincidentally, called me on the drive home, reminiscing about the original NES game and suggesting we play together.
For the first time in years, I felt a spark of excitement. I promised my dad we’d play, a promise I intended to keep. As I loaded up the game, anxiety nearly overwhelmed me. Multiplayer gaming was foreign territory, and my social anxiety threatened to ruin the experience. But my oldest son’s encouraging words—“You look happy, Mom”—kept me in the match. Soon, one match turned into a night of gaming until the sun came up, and I began to reconnect with the joy and community I had long forgotten.
Friday the 13th: The Game became more than just entertainment; it became a lifeline. Weekly matches introduced me to friends who understood my struggles and shared my love for horror. One player, a content creator, even donated her old gaming PC, encouraging me to stream and share my passion with others. Through the game, I rediscovered my confidence, creativity, and purpose. I even won a special effects makeup contest inspired by the Savini Jason design, a testament to how much this game had reignited my passions.
As the game’s online servers closed on January 1, 2025, at 12:02 am, I reflected on the profound impact it had on my life. It wasn’t just a game; it was a bridge to healing, connection, and self-discovery. The developers at Gun Media and Illfonic—Wes, Ronnie, Matt, Cid, and their entire team at Gun —created more than a game; they built a community that transformed lives. Their work gave me the courage to face my demons, reconnect with my passions, and find joy in the things I once loved.
To anyone who feels lost or disconnected: there’s hope in rediscovering what you love. For me, it was gaming, horror, and the simple act of keeping a promise to my dad. Today, as a proud horror content creator and advocate for indie developers, I carry the lessons and friendships forged through Friday the 13th: The Game.
Thank you, Gun Media and Illfonic, for saving my life and reminding me of the power of gaming and community. You’ve created more than a game—you’ve created a legacy and because of you, I “Survived” this journey of the game.
Sincerely,
DaFemalePhenom
A.K.A
A Gun Gurl for Life
Discover Gun Media’s latest project and Fangoria Award-Winning Masterpiece: The Texas Chainsaw Massacre
For fans of the horror genre, Gun Media is a name synonymous with immersive, spine-chilling gaming experiences. Known for their dedication to delivering games that capture the essence of classic horror franchises, Gun Media has once again struck gold with their latest release: The Texas Chainsaw Massacre. This Fangoria Award-winning game is a love letter to fans of the genre and a must-play for anyone who dares to step into the terrifying world of Leatherface and his family.
Why The Texas Chainsaw Massacre?
Gun Media has a history of creating games that not only entertain but also immerse players in iconic horror universes. Following the massive success of Friday the 13th: The Game, they’ve taken their expertise to new heights with The Texas Chainsaw Massacre.
This game is more than just a horror experience—it’s a masterpiece that brings the gritty, oppressive atmosphere of the 1974 film to life. From the tension-filled gameplay to the painstakingly detailed environments, every element of this game screams authenticity. Whether you’re a longtime fan of the franchise or new to its horrors, this game offers an experience like no other.
What Makes It Award-Winning?
The Texas Chainsaw Massacre earned its Fangoria Award for good reason. Here’s what sets it apart:
Immersive Gameplay: Play as either a member of the Slaughter Family or one of their would-be victims. Each role brings unique abilities and strategies, making every match a thrilling challenge.
Faithful to the Source Material: From the chilling sound design to the iconic chainsaw roar, this game faithfully recreates the essence of the film.
Terrifying Multiplayer Action: Team up or face off in multiplayer matches that test your wits, survival instincts, and ability to outsmart your opponents.
Cutting-Edge Visuals: The game uses advanced graphics to bring the rural Texas horror to life in stunning detail.
Developer Passion: Gun Media’s commitment to horror fans shines through in every aspect of this game, making it a true labor of love.
Why You Need to Play
Whether you’re a gamer, a horror fan, or both, The Texas Chainsaw Massacre is a must-have for your collection. It offers the kind of experience that leaves you on the edge of your seat, heart pounding, and eager for more. It’s not just a game—it’s a chance to live the horror.
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Join the community of horror fans and gamers who have already fallen in love with Gun Media’s latest triumph. Are you ready to survive—or will you become another victim?
Prepare yourself for the most chilling gaming experience of the year. Leatherface is waiting.