Last August saw the announcement that survival horror icon, Alone in the Dark, would be getting a reboot. The game’s initial announcement confirmed that it would be developed by THQ Nordic, it would feature two playable characters, and it would seek to reimagine the original game for a modern audience. It would also be directed by Mikael Hedberg, the writer of both SOMA and Amnesia.
Finally, after almost a year, THQ has finally showcased the gameplay and world of Alone in the Dark. Here is everything we learned from both the gameplay and the subsequent PlayStation blog post.
Updating a Classic
The eleven-minute showcase highlights the way that THQ is seeking to renovate the original Alone in the Dark. Released in 1992, Alone in the Dark is still considered by many to be the first-ever entry into the survival horror genre, and would eventually give way to games such as Silent Hill and Resident Evil. The gameplay reveals how they are updating the game’s original atmosphere, with a mix of new and old touches that will no doubt please old fans.
Hedberg even speaks to the original series creator, Frédérick Raynal. Raynal talks about how impressed he is with the new reboot, stating that the development team “did a great job preserving the core feeling of the game”.
The PlayStation blog post also highlights the music of the game:
“Doom Jazz legend Jason Köhnen (Bong-Ra) lent his talents to capturing Alone in the Dark’s otherworldly chaos, contributing songs that feel at once nostalgic, modern… and from somewhere else, not of this world. Based on these songs, Sound Designer & Composer Árni Bergur Zoëga has crafted an eerie, mysterious soundscape that will have you looking over your shoulder for days – especially if you’re a headphones user”.
All-Star Cast
THQ Nordic confirmed that David Harbour will be playing the role of series protagonist Edward Curnby. The blog post spotlights his role:
“David Harbour brings his trademark intensity to his role as Edward, but also his playfulness. When thrust into unimaginable situations, our natural reaction is terror, even questioning our own sanity, which David captures perfectly. Sometimes, however, we try to steel ourselves against our worst fears with humor. The dry wit that David has brought to some of his most famous characters shines through in Edward, ever the inquisitive, slightly world-weary investigator.”
The game will also star the award-winning Jodie Comer as Emily Hartwood. Tom Moore, marketing manager at THQ Nordic says that “Jodie portrays Emily with expert nuance, at once showing concern for her missing uncle and dread for the fate which may befall her as a result of the Hartwood curse. Whether interacting with Derceto’s strange inhabitants or fending off otherworldly creatures, Jodie gives a world-class performance.”
Both characters are playable, and both campaigns have key differences based on the character you choose.
Release Date
Alone in the Dark will release on October 25th, 2023 for the PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X, and Steam. A prologue is now available on all consoles if you want to get a further taste of how the game plays. Stay tuned to Final Weapon for more coverage on Alone in the Dark!
