Solo developer Retrofiction Games has shared more details about its highly anticipated 2D survival-horror title, Dead of Darkness, set to release on January 23, 2025, for PC via Steam. The game promises a rich, 12-hour campaign packed with cosmic dread, intricate puzzles, and pixel-perfect visuals, all for $15.99 USD, with a 15% discount during launch week. Watermelo spoke with Markus Neuert, the mind behind Retrofiction Games, to delve into the creative process and expectations for the launch.

When asked about the inspiration behind the game, Neuert shared, "I grew up in the 90s with the SNES and always had a passion for JRPGs. The first time I ever saw a zombie in a video game was in Terranigma, which left a lasting impression on me. I wanted to create a horror story that included memorable characters and played with genre tropes and player expectations."

To enhance the game’s accessibility, Dead of Darkness offers four initial difficulty levels, with two additional levels unlockable after completing the campaign. Neuert explained, "The original design was between HARD and VERY HARD, but early playtests showed the need for more approachable options. My priority is for players to enjoy the story, regardless of skill level. Even on Very Easy, there are tense moments—your survival depends on making the right decisions."

The New Game Plus mode further enriches the experience, allowing players to carry over upgraded weapons and select their preferred difficulty level. Neuert added, "You can beat the game on Very Easy and then start New Game Plus with maxed-out weapons on Very Hard. This flexibility lets players craft their own experience, and I think they’ve earned it for surviving the nightmare once!"

Achieving a balance in gameplay and creating an immersive atmosphere presented challenges during development. Neuert shared, "Balancing was tough because players have varying expectations for survival horror. Puzzles were another challenge—I didn’t want them to feel like filler or block progression. The clue system, where players combine or use clues in the environment, added complexity but needed significant tweaking to be enjoyable."

The game's atmosphere ensures players are never truly safe, requiring careful planning and constant map-checking to find the safest routes. "The best survival horror experiences make you feel vulnerable and keep you strategizing," Neuert explained.

Post-launch, Neuert is optimistic about expanding the game’s world. "There’s a lot more to tell in the world of Dead of Darkness. While future content depends on the game’s performance, I’d love to explore more stories in this universe."

With Steam achievements, multiple difficulty options, and a richly detailed world, Dead of Darkness invites players to unravel its dark secrets and face the terrors that await. Mark your calendars for January 23, 2025, and prepare to descend into the depths of survival horror.