Masala Games, the Ahmedabad-based indie studio led by industry veteran Shalin Shodhan, has announced a landmark release: Detective Dotson: The Movie will debut in Hindi alongside the highly anticipated PC game Detective Dotson on April 24, 2025. This transmedia launch marks a significant moment for Indian indie gaming, blending cinematic storytelling with interactive gameplay in a stylized modern-day India.
A Unique Transmedia Experience
Detective Dotson: The Movie serves as a companion piece to the game, providing backstory and setting the stage for the mystery adventure that players will experience. The film, crafted in Unreal Engine 5, follows Dotson – a grieving amateur detective – as he unravels a deadly conspiracy involving a corrupt corporate empire, a mysterious assassin, and a high-stakes cricket match. The movie’s narrative is tightly interwoven with the game, which picks up after the film’s events, giving fans a seamless story across both mediums.
Star-Studded Hindi Voice Cast
The movie will be released in Hindi with English subtitles and features renowned voice talent from the Hindi dubs of blockbusters like Avengers: Endgame, Deadpool & Wolverine, and the Harry Potter series. Voiceover artist Sanket Mhatre, known for roles such as Deadpool and Hawkeye, headlines the cast, bringing cinematic flair to the project. According to Shalin Shodhan, the switch to a native Hindi dub was driven by community feedback and resulted in a more authentic and polished final product.
Music and Visuals
Detective Dotson: The Movie also boasts an original soundtrack created in collaboration with Nikhil Rao of Indian Ocean, pioneers of Indian rock music. Visually, both the game and film employ a striking 2D-meets-3D art style, reflecting the vibrant energy of contemporary India.
How to Watch and Play
Detective Dotson the game will be available for Rs. 500 on Steam and the Windows Store in India (with a 10% launch discount), and $20 internationally. Every game purchase includes access to the movie. Additionally, select content creators such as LazyAssassin, ThePJOfficial, and Hitesh KS will host special watch parties with bespoke versions of the Hindi dub. The movie will also premiere on Masala Games’ website in both Hindi and English from 6pm IST on April 24.
A Milestone for Indian Indie Gaming
This dual launch represents one of India’s first major video game-to-film crossovers, signaling the growing ambition and capability of the country’s indie scene. As Sanket Mhatre noted, “Video games crossing over into film is the natural order in developed markets and we’re happy to be a part of India’s first video game transmedia effort.”
Where to Find More
- Detective Dotson on Steam: Available to wishlist now
- Movie trailer: Watch on YouTube
- Game trailer: Also available on YouTube
- Official website and premiere: dotson.in