The popular horror game Phasmophobia is set to receive a major update as developer Kinetic Games has announced the reworked 6 Tanglewood Drive map will launch on March 3, 2026, across all platforms. The Tanglewood Drive rework represents a significant visual and gameplay overhaul of one of the game’s original and most beloved locations, bringing it in line with the studio’s current development standards.
According to the developer’s announcement, the update was originally planned to launch alongside the Player Character Update. However, due to the extensive scope of the rework, the studio has decided to release the Tanglewood Drive update separately, with the character update following shortly after.
Enhanced Visuals for Phasmophobia’s Iconic Location
The Tanglewood Drive rework focuses heavily on visual improvements designed to match the quality standards Kinetic Games has established with more recent maps. The development team has created entirely new assets, props, and animations to populate the iconic location.
Additionally, the studio has adopted a “lived-in” aesthetic for the updated map, featuring older furniture and decor that distinguishes it from other in-game houses. This approach aims to provide players with a stronger sense of the location’s history and the mysterious events that occurred within its walls.
Meanwhile, Kinetic Games has incorporated environmental storytelling elements into the rework. The developer stated that while specific details remain under wraps, players will have opportunities to piece together narratives about what transpired at 6 Tanglewood Drive through environmental clues and details.
Gameplay Design Changes and Audio Enhancements
The redesign maintains the core layout that players have become familiar with over the years, though Kinetic Games has introduced subtle refinements to enhance gameplay variety. The studio emphasized that the rework was approached with respect for the original map while incorporating lessons learned from designing newer locations such as Nell’s Diner.
However, one notable change has generated community discussion: the removal of the popular looping spot in the kitchen area. The developer addressed player concerns by confirming that alternative looping locations remain available throughout the map, explaining the decision was made to improve overall gameplay flow and create a more natural environment.
In contrast to the relatively conservative layout changes, the audio design has received extensive updates. According to Kinetic Games, a comprehensive range of new audio features has been implemented throughout both existing and new areas of 6 Tanglewood Drive, creating what the studio describes as one of the most immersive maps in Phasmophobia.
Balancing Nostalgia with Innovation
The development team acknowledged the challenges of reworking such a beloved location within the Phasmophobia community. The studio’s goal with previous map reworks has been to elevate original locations to current quality standards, and the Tanglewood Drive update follows this established pattern.
Additionally, the rework introduces new ghost interactions and landmarks that players will notice immediately upon entering the house. These additions are designed to provide unique gameplay experiences while preserving the familiar feel that has made the location a fan favorite since the game’s early development.
The enhanced Phasmophobia map aims to demonstrate the studio’s evolution in design philosophy while maintaining the atmospheric horror that made the original location memorable. Kinetic Games expressed confidence that the improvements will enhance what makes the map special to the player base.
Players can expect the reworked 6 Tanglewood Drive to become available on March 3, 2026, with the separate Player Character Update scheduled to follow at an unspecified date. The studio has not yet confirmed an exact timeline for the character update release.
