Identity V – The Complete Guide to the Asymmetrical Horror Game Phenomenon

Identity V has cemented itself as one of the most unique multiplayer horror games on the market. Developed by NetEase Games, it combines asymmetrical gameplay, gothic aesthetics, and gripping storytelling to create a tense yet thrilling experience. Whether you are a new player stepping into the haunting manor for the first time or a seasoned veteran seeking to refine your skills, this comprehensive guide will take you through the game’s origins, gameplay mechanics, characters, and strategies.

1. The Origins and Concept of Identity V

Identity V was officially released in 2018 by NetEase Games. Inspired by the success of asymmetrical multiplayer titles like Dead by Daylight, NetEase sought to bring its own twist to the genre with a Victorian gothic aesthetic and a deeply woven narrative.

The game’s story follows Orpheus, a detective who receives a mysterious letter inviting him to investigate an abandoned manor. As he delves deeper, the boundary between reality and fantasy blurs. The core gameplay centers on a 4v1 structure, where four survivors try to escape the map while one hunter works to capture them.

The haunting visuals, surreal settings, and eerie soundtrack combine to immerse players into a world that is both beautiful and terrifying.

2. Understanding the Asymmetrical Gameplay

At its core, Identity V pits four survivors against one hunter in matches that typically last around 8–10 minutes. Survivors must decode cipher machines to open the exit gates, while the hunter’s mission is to incapacitate and eliminate all survivors before they can escape.

Survivor Goals

Survivors must work together to:

• Decode five cipher machines.

• Open the exit gates.

• Avoid being captured by the hunter.

Hunter Goals

The hunter must:

• Locate and chase survivors.

• Hit them twice to incapacitate.

• Place them on rocket chairs to eliminate them from the match.

The asymmetry ensures that each role offers a vastly different experience—survivors focus on stealth, teamwork, and speed, while hunters rely on tracking, prediction, and aggression.

3. Survivor Roles and Strategies

Survivors in Identity V are not interchangeable—they each have unique abilities, traits, and backstories. Choosing the right survivor for your playstyle is critical.

Common Survivor Types

• Decoders – Excel at decoding ciphers quickly but are less effective in chases.

• Kiting Specialists – Survivors like the Forward can delay hunters for long periods.

• Support Survivors – Characters such as the Doctor can heal others quickly.

Survivor Strategy Tips

• Always communicate with teammates using the quick chat wheel.

• Rotate decoding and rescuing duties to avoid overburdening one player.

• Practice kiting routes on each map to extend chases.

4. Hunter Roles and Strategies

Hunters in Identity V each come with a distinct skill set, appearance, and difficulty level. From the terrifying Feaster with his tentacle attacks to the swift Wu Chang who can switch between two forms, mastering a hunter requires understanding their unique strengths.

Key Hunter Types

• Speed Hunters – Focus on quick chases (e.g., The Ripper).

• Area Control Hunters – Specialize in zoning survivors (e.g., Dream Witch).

• Ability-Based Hunters – Use powers to block paths or disable survivors (e.g., Sculptor).

Hunter Strategy Tips

• Learn to predict survivor movements based on map layout.

• Use ability cooldowns wisely to prevent wasted opportunities.

• Patrol high-traffic areas such as cipher machines and gates.

5. The Story and Lore Behind Identity V

While many multiplayer games focus purely on mechanics, Identity V offers a surprisingly deep and mysterious storyline.

The Manor Mystery

The central narrative revolves around the Oletus Manor and its sinister past. Each character—whether survivor or hunter—has a backstory connected to the manor, adding layers of intrigue.

Event-Based Story Expansions

NetEase regularly adds story events that reveal new lore, characters, and plot twists. Fans eagerly await each update to piece together the ever-expanding mystery.

6. Game Modes and Events

Identity V offers more than just the standard Quick Match or Ranked Match. The developers frequently introduce unique modes to keep gameplay fresh.

Common Game Modes

• Quick Match – Casual matches for practice or fun.

• Ranked Match – Competitive mode with seasonal rewards.

• Custom Match – Play with friends or practice specific scenarios.

• Event Modes – Limited-time modes with fun twists on the core gameplay.

Events often include special maps, costumes, and story chapters, encouraging players to return regularly.

7. Maps and Their Importance

Maps in Identity V are not just backgrounds—they are central to gameplay. Understanding their layout can be the difference between victory and defeat.

Notable Maps

• Arms Factory – Compact with plenty of loops for kiting.

• Sacred Heart Hospital – Multi-level terrain challenges both survivors and hunters.

• Lakeside Village – Open spaces favor hunters with long-range attacks.

Map Mastery

Survivors should memorize safe loops and pallet locations, while hunters should learn shortcut routes and high-traffic cipher areas.

8. Character Progression and Unlocks

Progression in Identity V is tied to both gameplay and cosmetics.

Unlocking Characters

Players can unlock survivors and hunters using:

• Clues (earned from matches).

• Echoes (premium currency).

• Fragments (used for cosmetics).

Talent Points

Each character has a Talent Web allowing players to customize skills and passive bonuses, tailoring their playstyle to personal preferences.

9. Competitive Scene and Esports

Identity V has a thriving competitive community. Tournaments draw players from across the globe, with matches showcasing high-level strategies.

Official Tournaments

NetEase sponsors events like:

• Identity V Championship (IVC)

• Call of the Abyss (COA)

These tournaments feature intense matches where players demonstrate impeccable kiting, decoding, and hunting skills.

Community Tournaments

Smaller fan-run competitions also offer opportunities for players to test their abilities against others.

10. The Future of Identity V

Since its release, Identity V has consistently evolved. Regular updates bring new characters, balance adjustments, and seasonal events.

Upcoming Expectations

• Continued expansion of the game’s lore.

• More crossover collaborations (such as with Danganronpa and Persona 5).

• Further gameplay balance to keep the experience fair and exciting.

The game’s blend of horror, competition, and creativity suggests that Identity V will remain a major player in the asymmetrical horror genre for years to come.

Conclusion

Identity V stands out in the crowded multiplayer landscape thanks to its haunting art style, deep lore, and strategic gameplay. Whether you prefer the tense stealth of a survivor or the thrill of hunting, there’s always something new to learn and master. With regular updates, a passionate community, and a compelling mix of story and competition, Identity V continues to capture the imaginations of players around the world.