Ice Nine Kills has released “Play Dead,” a new heavy metal single and music video produced in collaboration with the survival horror game Dead By Daylight. The release features appearances by professional skateboarder Tony Hawk, actor Devon Sawa, and actress Krsy Fox. According to a statement from the band, the track is intended to serve as a creative extension of the game’s established horror universe.
The collaboration includes a special Ice Nine Kills collection now available within the Dead By Daylight game environment. Developed by Behaviour Interactive, the multiplayer survival horror title has built a reputation for integrating major pop culture horror icons into its gameplay. This latest partnership moves the franchise into the heavy metal genre, following previous crossovers with franchises such as Resident Evil and Silent Hill.
Who stars in the “Play Dead” music video?
The music video for “Play Dead” utilizes a cast of figures rooted in horror cinema and subculture history. Skating legend Tony Hawk appears in the video, a move described by the band as a way to bridge the gap between gaming, music, and alternative culture.
The cast also includes Devon Sawa, known for his role in the Final Destination film series, and Krsy Fox, who recently appeared in Terrifier 3. By utilizing actors associated with specific horror subgenres, the band aligns the visual identity of the single with the “slasher” themes prevalent in both their music and the Dead By Daylight gameplay experience.
How did the creative collaboration work?
The production of “Play Dead” involved direct coordination between the band and the game’s creative staff. Ice Nine Kills worked alongside Michel F. April, the longtime composer for Dead By Daylight, to ensure the song’s sonic profile matched the game’s atmosphere. The band also engaged with the game’s developers and its fan community during the development process.
“Collaborating with Dead By Daylight gave us the chance to step into a world that feels deeply aligned with our creative instincts,” Ice Nine Kills vocalist Spencer Charnas stated. Charnas noted that the band aimed to create a track that felt like a “real extension” of the game’s eerie and immersive energy rather than a mere tribute.
Regarding the inclusion of Tony Hawk, Charnas explained that the skater’s presence was essential due to his status as a symbol of the intersection between music and gaming subcultures. Charnas cited shared interests in punk rock and 1980s comedies, such as The Naked Gun, as common ground during the collaboration.
The legacy of Dead By Daylight crossovers
Since its release in 2016, Dead By Daylight has utilized a crossover-heavy strategy to maintain its position in the survival horror market. Behaviour Interactive has facilitated partnerships with several high-profile horror properties, including Saw, Alien, and Stranger Things. The game has also featured musical and cultural icons like Iron Maiden and Slipknot within its universe.
The title recently marked its 10th anniversary. During this period, Behaviour Interactive identified the game as the most-played horror title in its category and confirmed that development has begun on a film adaptation based on the game’s IP. This expansion into film mirrors the band’s own approach to music, which frequently draws from cinematic horror tropes.
What is next for Ice Nine Kills?
The release of “Play Dead” follows the band’s recent collaboration with the Scream franchise. Their previous single, “Twisting The Knife,” was part of an official Scream 7 tie-in and featured actress and singer McKenna Grace. This pattern of blending heavy metal with horror media has become a central component of the band’s brand identity.
Ice Nine Kills has also announced upcoming live performances. Following their appearance at the Download Festival earlier this month, the band has confirmed a tour scheduled for early 2027. A primary highlight of this tour will be a headline performance at London’s O2 Arena, scheduled for March 28, 2027. This event is noted as the largest headline show in the band’s history.
Ice Nine Kills Collaboration Summary
| Collaboration Partner | Project/Media | Key Figure Involved |
|---|---|---|
| Dead By Daylight | “Play Dead” Single/Video | Tony Hawk, Devon Sawa |
| Scream 7 | “Twisting The Knife” | McKenna Grace |
| Terrifier 3 | Music Video Appearance | Krsy Fox |
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there an Ice Nine Kills pack in Dead By Daylight?
Yes, a special Ice Nine Kills collection is available within the game following the release of the “Play Dead” single.
Who composed the music for the Dead By Daylight collaboration?
Ice Nine Kills worked with Michel F. April, the longtime composer for the Dead By Daylight franchise, on the track.
When is the Ice Nine Kills 2027 tour?
The tour is scheduled for early 2027, with a major headline show at the O2 Arena in London on March 28, 2027.
The next major update regarding the Dead By Daylight film adaptation or upcoming tour ticket releases is expected from Behaviour Interactive and the band’s official management.
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