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Darkwood, the critically acclaimed top-down horror game, is receiving a sequel developed by a surprise new team. Announced on October 28, 2025, original creator Acid Wizard and publisher Hooded Horse have enlisted Ice-Pick Lodge, the developer behind Pathologic, to work on Darkwood 2.
While Ice-Pick Lodge takes over development duties, Acid Wizard remains involved as the intellectual property holder and will provide oversight and consultation throughout the project. This collaboration merges two studios known for their unsettling and atmospheric games, with Ice-Pick Lodge bringing its decades of expertise in crafting immersive horror experiences.
A New Setting for Survival Horror
Darkwood 2 will shift its setting dramatically from the dense, murky forest environment of the original game to a vast, arid landscape surrounding a dying sea. Players will explore deserts, swampy marshes, and deeper waters filled with hidden threats and new creatures. The expanded and varied biomes present fresh gameplay challenges and atmospheric tension, requiring players to fortify their bases and survive until dawn once more.
The original Darkwood distinguished itself by its unique top-down perspective paired with a clever line-of-sight mechanic that concealed dangers, cultivating a persistent sense of dread without relying on common horror tropes like jump scares. This sequel promises to maintain that core essence of survival horror while expanding the world and its mysteries.
Developer Insight and Platforms
Ice-Pick Lodge is renowned for its uncompromising style, particularly in its Pathologic series, which shares thematic similarities with Darkwood’s grim and foreboding tone. Bringing on this developer signals a continuation of the original game's deep, immersive storytelling and unforgiving gameplay.
Darkwood 2 is currently confirmed for release on PC and will also be available on PC Game Pass at launch, offering players accessible options to experience the sequel.
Watch the Darkwood 2 announcement trailer
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CR99LP_nays
The Darkwood series has remained a cult favorite among indie survival horror fans, praised for its atmospheric tension and narrative depth. The sequel arrives as Ice-Pick Lodge takes over development, supported by the original creators, promising a fresh yet faithful continuation of the franchise.
About Darkwood
- Original game released on multiple platforms: PC, PS4, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch, and Mac.
- Known for its top-down perspective and survival horror gameplay.
- Developed originally by Acid Wizard Studio and published by Hooded Horse.
Fans of atmospheric horror and immersive survival mechanics should keep an eye on Darkwood 2 as it moves through development, combining the strengths of two respected indie developers in the genre.
