German indie studio Paintbucket Games, known for its thought-provoking and impactful games, has announced its latest title, The Darkest Files. As a spiritual successor to their award-winning game Through The Darkest of Times, this historical investigation and courtroom drama will be available for PC and Mac on March 25, 2025. A demo version is already available on Steam.
The Darkest Files is set in 1950s post-war Germany, where you take on the role of Esther Katz, a young and ambitious prosecutor. Investigating unsolved crimes from the Nazi era, based on real historical events, you will interrogate witnesses, search for clues, and attempt to prove your case in court. Esther joins the team of Fritz Bauer, a real-life attorney general in Frankfurt who pursued similar cases in history.
Jörg Friedrich from Paintbucket Games emphasized that the goal of The Darkest Files is not just to create an exciting game but also to tell the story of Fritz Bauer and his team of courageous prosecutors who fought for justice despite many obstacles:“This story has become frighteningly relevant today, as the rule of law and democratic institutions are under unprecedented pressure. We hope to inspire players to take action themselves.”
The game offers in-depth investigations of historical cases, allowing players to interview relatives, witnesses, and suspects. Through Esther’s internal perspective, players can immerse themselves in witness testimonies, interactively experiencing events from the point of view of the person giving the statement. Once enough evidence is gathered, you must reconstruct your crime theory on a crime scene blueprint and present it in court.
The Darkest Files features stunning 3D visuals with a cell-shaded effect, making it resemble a 1950s pulp comic come to life. Additionally, full English voice acting further enhances the immersive atmosphere.
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