The Vanishing of Ethan Carter is a 2014 horror adventure video game developed and published by The Astronauts for Microsoft Windows, PlayStation 4,[2][3] Xbox One[4] and Nintendo Switch.

Upon arrival, he learns Ethan has gone missing and begins encountering unsettling paranormal phenomena, as well as evidence of recent violence in the tiny mining village.

As his investigation progresses, Prospero learns the Carter family's dark secret: Ethan had released a malevolent spirit known as the Sleeper through witchcraft which has threatened their lives.

Ethan had built a sanctuary inside a mansion in town to escape his family, particularly his overbearing mother, and abusive brother and uncle.

When his mother accidentally sets the mansion on fire, trapping Ethan in the room with no way to save himself, he summons Prospero to provide comfort as he's consumed by the smoke by enacting a fictitious series of events.

[26] Julian Aidan from Hardcore Gamer praised its well-designed open world, visuals and story, but criticized the gameplay for being too linear, as well as finding the narrative weak.

[27] Shaun McInnis from GameSpot praised the simple yet enjoyable puzzle-solving, captivating story, outstanding graphics and breathtaking environments, but criticized its weird and vague auto-save system.

[28] Christopher Livingston from PC Gamer also criticized the save system, but praised the voice acting, enjoyable puzzle-solving, as well as the intriguing, satisfying, and wonderfully restrained story.