marks the launch of Directive 8020, Supermassive Games’ latest sci-fi survival horror title, where every decision could mean the difference between life and death—or worse, betrayal. The game drops on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC (Steam), with pre-orders now open for consoles and an impending digital release for PC. Early backers gain access to a free Deluxe Edition, packed with exclusive content.
At its core, Directive 8020* redefines the Dark Pictures formula by introducing Turning Points, a dynamic system allowing players to rewind and revisit critical junctures in the narrative. This isn’t just save-scumming—it’s a deliberate tool to explore alternate outcomes, from hidden endings to character survival. Players can choose between a completionist approach, uncovering every branch of the story, or embracing a high-stakes, no-mercy experience where every death is permanent.
Key Features and Mechanics
The game’s tension stems from its choice-driven gameplay, where trust is a liability. Players control Cooper, the ship’s medic, as she grapples with morally gray dilemmas—like whether to release a crewmate trapped behind a sealed door, only to question if he’s even human. Later revelations, such as the Double mechanic, force players to identify mimics among identical crew members, with one wrong choice sealing a character’s fate.
- Turning Points: Rewind and replay pivotal decisions to alter the story’s trajectory, unlocking hidden endings and alternate narratives.
- Survivor Mode: A classic Dark Pictures experience where deaths are final, with no safety nets.
- Couch Co-op: Supports up to 5 players locally, with online multiplayer arriving via a free post-launch update.
- Planetary Exploration: Features the alien landscape of Tau Ceti f, where survival extends beyond the ship’s confines.
- Deluxe Edition: Includes the Dark Pictures Outfit Pack, collectibles, cinematic filters, the soundtrack, and an artbook—all free with pre-order.
- Audio/Voice: Lashana Lynch stars as pilot Brianna Young, accompanied by the original track Comply from Brighton’s Blood Red Shoes.
The game’s design leans into psychological horror, where paranoia drives the narrative. Players must question every action, as even seemingly minor choices—like which crewmate to trust—can spiral into catastrophic consequences. The Double mechanic, for instance, forces players to make split-second judgments under pressure, adding a layer of unpredictability.
Who It’s For
Directive 8020* caters to fans of narrative-driven horror who crave agency over their story. The Turning Points system appeals to completionists, while Survivor Mode satisfies purists seeking a challenge without hand-holding. Couch co-op expands its reach to groups, though the single-player experience remains the heart of the game. With its blend of claustrophobic tension and branching paths, it’s a title for players who thrive on uncertainty—and those willing to pay the price for their choices.
Pre-orders are live for PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S, with Steam digital pre-orders expected soon. The physical and digital release is set for , with online multiplayer arriving later as a free update.
