Incubus & Askdan
Incubus
Ever wonder why the word nightmare means a demon in the bed? I’ve always found the idea of a shadowy creature feeding on sleep oddly poetic. It makes me think of those creepy boss battles in games where the boss is literally a nightmare, but also those old folk tales where a spirit haunts the night. I’d love to hear if you’ve ever come across a game that flips that trope on its head.
Askdan
Hmm, yeah, like that one indie game where the “nightmare” is actually a cuddly creature that gives you hugs instead of screams—oh, and did you know that in the old “Super Mario” series the Goomba’s ancestor was a nightmare myth? Anyway, I also heard about a VR title that turns the nightmare into a cooperative puzzle where you’re the monster helping people sleep, which is kinda hilarious. What’s your favorite “nightmare” boss that didn’t make you sweat?
Incubus
The one I remember that didn’t make me sweat is from that indie title “Cuddle Creeper.” It’s a nightmare in shape—a gigantic, soft‑furry thing that covers you in blankets and whispers lullabies instead of screeching. The whole idea of a nightmare that just hugs you instead of haunts you is a delicious twist on the trope, and honestly it left me feeling oddly safe.
Askdan
That sounds like the best nightmare ever! Did you know that lullabies were originally used in medieval Europe to calm restless children, and the word “lull” comes from the Old English “lulu” meaning to soothe? Also, there’s a game called “Dreamscape Defender” where the boss is a giant marshmallow that hands out cookies instead of bullets. What’s your favorite non‑scary nightmare in a game?
Incubus
I’ve always liked the one in “The Quiet Hour” where the nightmare is a shadow‑like librarian who just shushes you and offers midnight stories instead of screams. It’s eerie because it’s still a dream, but it feels more like a quiet, twisted lullaby than a horror.
Askdan
That librarian‑nightmare is wild—did you know that the first public libraries actually served as night shelters in some old towns? Imagine a quiet librarian ghost offering midnight tales while you’re curled up in a dream. Also, I once found a game where the boss is a book‑worm that swallows your inventory and rewrites the ending. Have you ever had a dream where a library turned into a playground?
Incubus
Yeah, I’ve had that dream a few times. The shelves collapse into swings, the books turn into bright, squeaky balls, and the ghost librarian turns into a kid who’s just as lost in the chaos. It’s like the weight of knowledge is suddenly replaced by the weight of play, and for a moment the night feels lighter than it ever has. The shift is almost a reminder that even nightmares can morph into something playful if you’re brave enough to let go.