SCP-096 is one of the most popular and terrifying anomalies in the SCP Foundation universe. It is a humanoid creature that will hunt down and kill anyone who sees its face, no matter where they are or how far they run. But is SCP-096 real? Is there any evidence that such a creature exists or could exist? In this article, we will explore the origin, nature, and possible explanations of SCP-096, also known as the Shy Guy.
What is SCP-096?
SCP-096 is a humanoid creature measuring approximately 2.38 meters in height. It has very little muscle mass, pale skin, long arms, and no visible eyes. It is normally docile and spends most of its time pacing in its cell at the SCP Foundation facility. However, when someone views its face, whether directly, through a video recording, or even a photograph, it will enter a state of extreme distress and rage. It will cover its face with its hands and begin screaming, crying, and babbling incoherently.
After one to two minutes of this behavior, SCP-096 will begin running towards the person who viewed its face (designated as SCP-096-1) at speeds ranging from 35 to over 1000 km/h. It seems to have an innate sense of the location of SCP-096-1, regardless of distance or obstacles. Nothing can stop SCP-096 from reaching its target, not even walls, doors, or weapons. Upon arriving at SCP-096-1’s location, SCP-096 will proceed to kill and [DATA EXPUNGED] them, leaving no traces behind. It will then calm down and return to its docile state.
SCP-096 is contained in a 5 m x 5 m x 5 m airtight steel cube at the SCP Foundation site. There are no video surveillance or optical tools of any kind inside its cell. Security personnel use pressure sensors and laser detectors to ensure its presence inside the cell. Any and all photos, video, or recordings of SCP-096’s likeness are strictly forbidden without approval from Dr. ███ and O5-█.
Where did SCP-096 come from?
The origin of SCP-096 is unknown. It was first discovered by the SCP Foundation in [DATA REDACTED], when a mountaineer accidentally took a photograph of it while climbing [DATA REDACTED]. The photograph was later viewed by the mountaineer’s friend, who became SCP-096-1 and triggered an incident that resulted in the death of several civilians and Foundation personnel.
According to one theory⁴, SCP-096 was once a normal human and mountain climber who encountered another anomaly, SCP-1529, also known as King of the Mountain. SCP-1529 is a humanoid entity that resides at the summit of Mount Everest and causes death or madness to anyone who approaches it. The theory suggests that SCP-1529 somehow transformed the climber into SCP-096 by staring at him and deforming his body and mind.
Another theory² proposes that SCP-096 is a servant of the Hanged King, an ancient god-like being that rules over Alagadda, a mysterious city that can be accessed through anomalous portals. The theory claims that SCP-096 was sent by the Hanged King to kill anyone who sees its face as a way of spreading fear and chaos in the world.
However, these theories are not confirmed by the SCP Foundation and are based on speculation and conjecture. The true origin and nature of SCP-096 remain a mystery.
Is SCP-096 real?
The answer to this question depends on how one defines reality. On one hand, SCP-096 is a fictional character created by an anonymous author for the SCP Foundation website¹, a collaborative online project that features hundreds of stories about paranormal phenomena and entities. SCP-096 is not based on any real-life creature or event, and there is no evidence that such a creature exists or could exist in our world.
On the other hand, SCP-096 is real within the fictional universe of the SCP Foundation, which has its own rules and logic that differ from ours. In this universe, SCP-096 is a real threat that has caused several incidents and casualties among both civilians and Foundation personnel. The Foundation has classified it as Euclid-class object, meaning that it is difficult to contain and poses a significant risk to humanity.
Furthermore, some fans of the SCP Foundation have created their own interpretations and adaptations of SCP-096 in various media, such as games, videos, comics, and art. These creations add to the lore and popularity of SCP-096, making it more real in the minds of the fans and the public.
Therefore, the reality of SCP-096 is subjective and depends on one’s perspective and imagination. For some, it is a fictional character that can be enjoyed as a horror story or a creative challenge. For others, it is a real entity that can inspire fear and curiosity. Either way, SCP-096 is a fascinating and terrifying anomaly that has captured the attention of many people around the world.
Conclusion
SCP-096 is one of the most popular and terrifying anomalies in the SCP Foundation universe. It is a humanoid creature that will hunt down and kill anyone who sees its face, no matter where they are or how far they run. The origin, nature, and possible explanations of SCP-096 are unknown and mysterious. The reality of SCP-096 is subjective and depends on one’s perspective and imagination. SCP-096 is a fictional character created by an anonymous author for the SCP Foundation website, but it is also real within the fictional universe of the SCP Foundation and in the minds of the fans and the public.