Paintbucket Games, the award-winning German indie studio known for creating thought-provoking experiences, has confirmed its participation in gamescom 2025 with its latest title The Darkest Files. The game will be available to the public at the “Games for Democracy” booth, organized by the Bundeszentrale für politische Bildung (bpb), the Federal Agency for Civic Education in Germany. The full version is already available on Steam and GOG, accompanied by a playable demo on Steam.

The title offers a historical investigation and courtroom experience. Players take on the role of Esther Katz, a young and ambitious prosecutor who investigates unsolved crimes from the Nazi era, based on real events. The journey involves interviewing witnesses, searching for clues, and ultimately bringing the perpetrators to court, defending a solid theory of what happened. Set in post-war Germany in the 1950s, the narrative follows the protagonist alongside Fritz Bauer, a historical figure and Attorney General of Frankfurt at the time, who conducted similar investigations in real life.

"At a time when autocrats are on the rise, denying human rights and persecuting minorities, we want to use our game and the story of Fritz Bauer to show how important it is to defend the rule of law and democracy – because beyond that lies the darkness of the collapse of civilization," said Jörg Friedrich, Game Director at Paintbucket Games.

"We're honored to present The Darkest Files as part of the 'Games for Democracy' booth, alongside other important games that can strengthen democratic values," the team added, reinforcing the importance of conveying meaningful messages through interactive entertainment.

During gamescom 2025, visitors will have the opportunity to experience the title firsthand and speak with the developers, getting an up-close look at the game’s potential as a tool for historical memory and the defense of democratic values.