amongus

Among Us is a multiplayer social deduction game developed by InnerSloth and published by Devolver Digital. Released in 2018, it gained significant popularity through Steam’s Early Access program before its full commercial release in 2020. The game is designed for four to fifteen players, who are divided into two roles: "Crewmates" and "Impostors." The objective varies depending on the role, with Crewmates working together to complete tasks and identify the Impostors, while Impostors attempt to sabotage the ship and frame Crewmates for their actions.

The game takes place aboard a spaceship or other spaceset, where players navigate through various areas to complete tasks such as repairing systems, scanning vents, or piloting the ship. Crewmates communicate via a shared chat, while Impostors can also use private messages to deceive others. Impostors can kill Crewmates by sabotaging the ship’s systems or by directly murdering them, leaving their bodies behind. The game features visual and audio cues to help players identify Impostors, such as body movement, vent scans, and emergency alerts.

Among Us incorporates elements of deception, teamwork, and psychological strategy, making it appealing to players who enjoy social deduction games like *Werewolf* or *Deception: Murder in Hong Kong*. Its simplicity in controls and gameplay mechanics allows for quick rounds, making it accessible to a broad audience. The game has also been praised for its community-driven updates, including new maps, roles, and customization options, which are frequently added based on player feedback.

Among Us experienced a surge in popularity during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, becoming a cultural phenomenon due to its ease of play over online networks and its engaging social dynamics. It has since expanded to other platforms, including mobile devices, and has inspired a variety of mods, fan content, and even esports events. The game’s success has also led to spin-offs and collaborations, further cementing its place in modern gaming culture.