After years of playing "Resident Evil" and "Silent Hill," are you tired of being scared? Do you wish you were the one freaking out the hapless humans? You're finally in luck. On this episode of "X-Play" we look at a game that puts you in command of a whole host of supernatural creatures. And thankfully it isn't called "Ghost Tycoon."

I ain't afraid of no ghost

"Ghost Master" expands an original premise into a fun, innovative experience that even the most jaded gamer can enjoy. Taking its cues from '80s comedy-horror classics such as "Ghostbusters" and "Gremlins," but with a distinct twist, "Ghost Master" puts you in the role of a mystical puppet master. Your goal? Scare the living daylights out of some mere mortals.

By including just the right blend of action, strategy, and puzzle solving, "Ghost Master" is one of the rare games that doesn't confine itself to a single genre and is better for it. You start each mission by choosing a team of "haunters" -- sprites, disturbances, elementals, and the like -- each with its own powers. The more plasm you have stored, the scarier your haunters.

Gameplay may seem complex at first fright, but it's extremely easy thanks to a quick tutorial and the intuitive menus and controls. Since each mission usually takes about 15 to 30 minutes to complete, you don't have to invest too much time per sitting.

Haunted frat house

Mission settings vary from a frat house to a cruise ship. In some missions you must scare away all mortals. In other missions you must coerce mortals into completing specific tasks.

The game cleverly but subtly references famous horror movies. The overall tone is light and humorous, even though some of the subject matter is a bit grotesque. If this were a movie, it'd be rated PG, maybe PG-13. Think "Beetlejuice," not "Hellraiser."

Nightmare on Sims Street

Visually, the game borrows a lot from "The Sims." The environments are populated with furniture and decorative items, all of which are used by your spirits.

The camera is easy to use, so you can see what's going on from any angle you want. You can also choose to follow a single subject or even see things from its point of view. The music is bouncy and light, yet appropriately sinister when necessary. The voice acting and sound effects are also impressive.

Master of its domain

Usually, the more hyped a game, the most disappointing the result. The best games take you by surprise. So don't be put off by the cheesy box art and nondescript title. "Ghost Master" is one of the most creative and enjoyable games to come around in a long time. Its mixture of creativity, solid gameplay, and sense of humor make it a game to die for.
"Ghost Master" (PC)
Also available on the Xbox.