I Expect You To Die (IEYTD) is an award-winning VR puzzle game developed by Schell Games. As an original IP, it places players in the role of an elite secret agent tasked with surviving a series of deadly, high-stakes escape rooms. Developed using the Unity engine, the game is optimized for a seated VR experience, utilizing a unique telekinetic (TK) mechanic to allow players to interact with distant objects without physical movement. With a focus on trial-and-error gameplay and a witty "spy-fi" aesthetic, IEYTD has become a cornerstone of the VR medium, earning numerous accolades for its innovative game design and immersive technical achievements.
Schell Games
agent phoenix
zoraxis
seated vr
unity engine
interactive narrative
environmental storytelling
What makes I Expect You To Die different from other VR escape rooms?
Unlike many VR games that require room-scale movement, IEYTD was specifically designed as a seated experience. It overcomes physical reach limitations with a telekinetic power, allowing you to grab any object in the room and manipulate it as if it were in your hands, which also helps prevent motion sickness.
Is the game meant to be difficult?
Yes, hence the title. The game utilizes a "Die and Retry" mechanic where death is part of the learning process. Each failure reveals a new hazard or a clue to a puzzle, encouraging the player to iterate on their strategy until they successfully complete the mission.
Who is the antagonist in the series?
Players face off against the global criminal organization known as Zoraxis. While the primary antagonist changes across the trilogy (such as Dr. Prism in later entries), the overarching goal is always to thwart Zoraxis' plans for world domination.
Does the game have a story, or is it just puzzles?
It features a rich "spy-fi" narrative delivered via your handler, who speaks to you through an earpiece. The storytelling is heavily integrated into the environments, with mission briefings, hidden notes, and interactive props that flesh out the world of 1960s-era espionage.
Can I play this on the original PlayStation VR?
Yes. The portfolio lists PS VR as a supported platform, alongside the Meta Horizon Store (Quest) and Steam for PC-based VR headsets.
