I recall a vivid memory from my youth, playing F.E.A.R with my cousin. At the tender age of absolutely 18, we were definitely allowed to immerse ourselves in the game, yet it left an indelible mark on my psyche. I can still picture my cousin scaling a ladder, only to be met with a terrifying jumpscare from Alma, who had strategically positioned herself at the top. The ensuing chaos, with a disheveled figure approaching us, sent us into a panic; we dropped the controller and fled downstairs into the comforting embrace of my aunt. Since that day, F.E.A.R has remained untouched in my gaming library, and my tolerance for horror games has dwindled significantly. So, when my partner decided to indulge in a complete playthrough of Darkwood, I found myself reliving that trauma, albeit eight years later. Now, the shadows have given birth to Darkwood 2, though not under the stewardship of the original developers.
New Beginnings with Darkwood 2
This time, Ice-Pick Lodge, known for their unsettling Pathologic series, has taken the helm, with Hooded Horse, a publisher celebrated for strategy games like Manor Lords, overseeing the project. Fortunately, the essence of the original team remains intact, as Acid Wizard is consulting throughout the development process.
Darkwood 2 is crafted as a hardcore survival experience, devoid of quest markers, challenging players to locate a base, scavenge for resources, and endure the night. The game adopts a top-down perspective, drenched in gore, where meticulous planning, resource management, and strategic placement of barricades and traps are essential for survival.
Set several years after the original, Darkwood 2 transports players to the marshlands of the former Aral Sea, now a desolate landscape of salt flats and parched earth. While the gameplay retains familiar elements, it is enveloped in a narrative driven by player choices that influence the world and its inhabitants. Hooded Horse assures that newcomers need not have played the first installment to grasp the sequel’s storyline, but given the Halloween season, one might argue that a little immersion into the lore could enhance the experience.
As the encroaching forest and its myriad creatures emerge from the shadows, players will need to maximize the scarce daylight to prepare for the impending nocturnal onslaught. At some point, a haunting question may arise: ‘Is a life like this even worth living?’ The answer, dear player, rests solely in your hands.
“We know that the fans have been eagerly awaiting a continuation of Darkwood,” shares Gustaw Stachaszewski, co-founder of Acid Wizard. “For years, the thought of entrusting our creation to another studio was unfathomable. However, as it became clear that collaboration was no longer feasible, we resolved that Darkwood must continue, even if not directly through our efforts.”
He further expresses enthusiasm about passing the torch to Ice-Pick Lodge, stating, “Their work on Pathologic has inspired us for years. The team at IPL truly understands what makes Darkwood a distinctive experience. We are confident they will honor its spirit while crafting something exceptional. Meanwhile, we will remain in the background, ensuring it aligns with the original vision.”
While Darkwood 2 currently lacks a release date, Hooded Horse has confirmed its availability on PC and Game Pass. As we await the forest’s horrors to reveal themselves, we’ve compiled a list of the best zombie games to celebrate the spooky season. Alternatively, for those seeking a different kind of challenge, a rundown of the best survival games awaits.
Are you looking forward to Darkwood 2? Share your horror stories on Discord, but please, don’t @ Lauren—she’s easily frightened.
