One of the best top-down survival horror games of all time is getting a surprise sequel

Darkwood 2, being developed by Ice-Pick Lodge, was announced at today's Xbox Showcase.

Darkwood is a top-down survival horror game, and if you're wondering how horrific a top-down videogame could possibly be, let me assure you the answer is probably more than you think. I called Darkwood "wretched and pestilent" not long after it launched in 2017, and while I haven't touched the game in years, I stand by that characterization—which, to be clear, is entirely complimentary.

(You don't have to take my word for it—have a look at that "overwhelmingly positive" rating across more than 20,000 user reviews on Steam.)

So I was genuinely excited to learn today that a sequel, Darkwood 2, is now in development. This does not represent a comeback for original Darkwood developer Acid Wizard Studio, however: It remains in a state of long-term hiatus, which it embarked on in 2023 immediately after releasing an alpha for Soccer Kids, "a game about soccer made by people who suck at playing soccer." Darkwood 2 is instead being made by Ice-Pick Lodge, the team best known for the Pathologic games. Acid Wizard will remain involved in a consultancy role, and also maintains ownership of the series.

"For years, the idea of handing over our baby to another studio was something unthinkable for us," Acid Wizard Studio co-founder Gustaw Stachaszewski said. "But, after it became evident that working together is not viable anymore, we decided that Darkwood should live on, even if not directly through our work.

"We're genuinely excited to pass on the torch to Ice-Pick Lodge—creators whose work on Pathologic has inspired us for years. The team at IPL really gets what makes Darkwood a unique experience. We believe they will not only honor its spirit but will create something truly exceptional. As for us, we'll be in the background, making sure it stays true to the original vision."

That's a big part of what makes the Darkwood 2 news exciting. If Acid Wizard can't make it, there's no one I can

Source: PC Gamer (https://www.pcgamer.com)