Phasmophobia Character Customization Update May 2026

You can expect a major change in Phasmophobia on May 5, 2026, when Kinetic Games releases the long-awaited Player Character Update. This patch introduces full character customization and replaces the game’s long-standing default models with improved animations, addressing issues such as the well-known “bendy back” bug.

The update was originally planned for an earlier roadmap but faced delays as the studio prioritized other features. Now, you will gain more control over how your ghost hunter looks and moves, marking a notable step forward for the co-op horror title.

Phasmophobia's Player Character Update Arrives on May 5

You will gain access to the Player Character Update on May 5, 2026, with specific launch times confirmed closer to release. This update focuses on how your investigator looks, moves, and interacts during contracts.

The new Customization Shop lets you select from 12 base characters at launch. You can then tailor your appearance using a wide range of options.

• Hairstyles
• Hair colors
• Clothing choices
• Additional cosmetic variations

Kinetic Games plans to expand the shop over time. Future additions will arrive through standard updates and periodic Twitch Drops, a system the studio has used in previous events.

If you watch participating Phasmophobia streams on Twitch after the update goes live, you can unlock a High Priestess T-shirt. This limited-time reward remains available through May 11, giving you a short window to claim it.

The update also replaces the game’s long-standing character animations. You will notice smoother and more natural movement across all hunters.

One major change removes the well-known “bendy back” visual glitch. While some players viewed it as part of the game’s identity, the animation bug is finally retired as part of this overhaul.

You will also see adjustments beyond appearance. The death room is being removed, altering how the game handles player elimination during investigations.

Kinetic Games has revised how you interact with equipment and the environment. The studio has not outlined every detail, leaving some mechanics for you to discover during play.

These changes build on recent updates, including the rework of 6 Tanglewood Drive, which refreshed one of the game’s most familiar locations. Together, they signal steady progress toward the planned 1.0 launch later in 2026, marking the end of the game’s extended early access period.

A separate crossover event with Alan Wake follows on May 12, one week after the character update. That collaboration arrives as a distinct addition rather than part of the customization overhaul.

For reference, the game’s current details are listed below:

With this update, you will see visible changes to your hunter’s identity, movement, and interaction systems when you step into your next investigation.