Since 2019, annually for five consecutive years, Supermassive Games has released a new title in their series called “The Dark Pictures Anthology,” starting with “Man of Medan.” However, in 2024, this pattern was interrupted when Supermassive published “The Casting of Frank Stone,” a game belonging to the same genre but produced by Behaviour Interactive and set within the “Dead by Daylight” universe. This year, though, “The Dark Pictures Anthology” is back with “Directive 8020,” scheduled for release in October; however, this installment seems distinct from its predecessors.
In the demo for Directive 8020 showcased at Summer Game Fest, players were swiftly transported into the realm of space, immersing themselves in a unique and unfamiliar experience compared to the earthbound games within the series. The game’s setting featured advanced spacecraft components, stun batons, and body-altering transformations reminiscent of The Thing. Even more surprising was the revelation by Dan McDonald, executive producer at Supermassive Games, that the game will include segments outside the ship as well.
As a devoted fan, I find myself immersed in this thrilling game. In the initial chapter, you’ll notice that most of the technicians are sound asleep when the story begins. It’s your role to awaken them and guide them in managing the ship. However, an unexpected meteor storm strikes the vessel, necessitating a prompt investigation. Given the genre is horror, be prepared for some chilling events that will unfold as a result.
Shifting focus from the specifics of plot and environment, it’s clear that Directive 8020 signifies a significant change. Unlike previous games in the series, which were published by Bandai Namco, this one is self-published by Supermassive. Additionally, the title has dropped the “The Dark Pictures Anthology” prefix and is now simply known as “Directive 8020“. Sometimes, you’ll see “A Dark Pictures game” attached depending on the source, but not always. This new game is intended to launch Season 2 of the series, which was initially surprising given that the games weren’t previously structured around seasons. However, in our interview with Supermassive, they confirmed that Directive 8020 will move away from the seasonal label, even though it technically remains a part of Season 2.
He mentioned during Summer Game Fest that they seldom discuss Season 2, as their primary focus now is on Directive 8020 independently.
Highlighting aspects such as increased emphasis on stealth and “dangerous discovery,” McDonald went on to propose that these alterations represent a logical evolution. Beyond these types of enhancements, reducing the spotlight on Season 2 aids in preventing perplexity for novice gamers.
He clarified for anyone who might assume that “Directive 8020” stands alone like “The Quarry” or “The Casting of Frank Stone”, saying, “We’re extending the series beyond this point, and there are still connections and references we make between the stories. My aim is to eliminate any potential confusion. You can enjoy Man of Medan, Little Hope, House of Ashes, and The Devil in Me without having played Season 1. While I personally appreciate these games, my goal is to ensure that everyone understands this is a separate entity.
Regrettably for longtime Dark Pictures series enthusiasts, The Curator – who typically narrates these stories – will have a smaller part in the new game, titled Directive 8020. In order to align with the more realistic tone of other games, the creator explained that The Curator’s office filled with leather, books, and maps didn’t suit the setting of Directive 8020.
McDonald stated, “He’s currently in the picture, but he’s taking a slightly less prominent role right now. However, we have some big plans for him throughout the series and even in this specific game. It’s just not as apparent at the moment; it’s more of a subtle change.
As a devoted gamer, I was recently asked about why Directive 8020 felt like the perfect time for this refreshing change in tone, and let me tell you, it’s not about belittling other games, but rather about learning, evolving, and experimenting with fresh ideas. Directive 8020 is larger and more expansive than its predecessors, and one of its most captivating new additions is the feature aptly named “Turning Points,” designed for players who enjoy revisiting areas or exploring all possible outcomes. All these modifications make Directive 8020 a significant turning point in the series.
He mentioned that with ‘The Turning Points’, users will be guided through various series for a deeper exploration of content. It’s like beginning anew, keeping all the existing elements but starting fresh.
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2025-06-10 20:13