What’s the Next Dark Pictures Game? Unveiling Directive 8020
Fast answer first. Then use the tabs or video for more detail.
- Watch the video explanation below for a faster overview.
- Game mechanics may change with updates or patches.
- Use this block to get the short answer without scrolling the whole page.
- Read the FAQ section if the article has one.
- Use the table of contents to jump straight to the detailed section you need.
- Watch the video first, then skim the article for specifics.
The next installment in the chilling Dark Pictures Anthology series is Directive 8020, a shift into the terrifying realm of science fiction horror. Developed by Supermassive Games, this title marks the beginning of the anthology’s second season and promises to deliver the same high-stakes, choice-driven gameplay that fans have come to expect, but with a distinct and exciting new backdrop. Leaving behind the earthly locales of the previous games, Directive 8020 will plunge players into the cold, unforgiving vacuum of deep space, making it a uniquely frightening experience within the franchise.
Directive 8020: A Leap into Sci-Fi Horror
What We Know So Far
The anticipation for Directive 8020 has been steadily building since its initial tease at the conclusion of The Devil in Me. While concrete details about the plot remain shrouded in mystery, we know that the narrative will draw inspiration from the real-world NASA Directive 8020, a document focused on preventing biological contamination from space. This provides a compelling and scientifically grounded framework for the horror to unfold. Imagine the isolation, the paranoia, and the terrifying possibilities of an unknown alien contagion in the vastness of space – that’s the core experience Supermassive is aiming to create. The title itself is a clear nod to this directive (though it has been superseded by Directive 8700 since June 22, 2022), indicating its pivotal role in the game’s narrative.
A New Setting, Familiar Mechanics
While the setting is a departure from the previous installments, the gameplay mechanics that define the Dark Pictures Anthology will remain largely the same. Players can expect to make crucial decisions that have profound consequences for the characters’ survival. Quick-time events, branching narratives, and the ever-present threat of permadeath will continue to keep players on the edge of their seats. The multiplayer options that fans have come to love will likely return, allowing players to share the terrifying experience with friends either online or offline in Shared Story mode.
What To Expect
Directive 8020 is expected to be the start of Dark Pictures Anthology Season 2, which, according to plans, should consist of four more titles. As usual, this means that each new title should be a stand-alone horror experience with new characters, story and premise. Fans can look forward to the return of the “Curator” character, who functions as an observer of the events unfolding and will likely continue to offer cryptic hints and commentary.
The Dark Pictures Anthology: A Continual Horror Journey
The Dark Pictures Anthology is planned to span a total of eight games, with four already released – Man of Medan, Little Hope, House of Ashes, and The Devil in Me. While Directive 8020 is confirmed to be the fifth game in the series, Supermassive Games has also released a spin-off title The Dark Pictures: Switchback VR which could be considered the fifth game as well. This anthology approach allows Supermassive to explore different horror subgenres and narratives, keeping the experience fresh and engaging for fans.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Is there going to be another Dark Pictures game?
Yes, absolutely! The Dark Pictures Anthology is continuing with its second season, which begins with Directive 8020.
2. Will there be a 5th Dark Anthology game?
Yes, not only is Directive 8020 the fifth main game in the series, but The Dark Pictures: Switchback VR was released on February 22, 2023 and serves as a spin-off title but still is considered the fifth game in the franchise.
3. What is the newest Dark Pictures game?
The most recent release is The Devil in Me, released on November 18, 2022. However, The Dark Pictures: Switchback VR was recently released and, technically, is the newest game in the Dark Pictures franchise.
4. How many more Dark Pictures games will there be?
The series is planned for a total of eight games, meaning there are four games remaining after The Devil in Me and two remaining if you consider Switchback VR to be part of the main series.
5. Which Dark Pictures game is the longest?
The Devil in Me is the longest of the currently released games, offering the most gameplay and exploration.
6. What is Directive 8020 based on?
The game title and narrative are directly inspired by NASA Directive 8020, which dealt with controlling biological contamination from outer space.
7. Are all Dark Pictures games connected?
While each game tells a standalone story, they all exist within the same Dark Pictures universe. This connection has been established by in-game references and hints, such as characters and events from previous titles appearing in magazine articles or documents.
8. What is the Curator’s Cut in The Dark Pictures games?
The Curator’s Cut offers additional scenes playable from the perspective of other characters with brand-new choices and decisions. It becomes available once you complete the main story, giving players additional insight and challenges to tackle in their playthrough.
9. Do both players need to own the game for the Dark Pictures Anthology’s multiplayer?
For the Friend’s Pass in The Devil in Me, only one player needs to own the full version of the game. The other player can join and play through the story together with the owner.
10. Which is the scariest Dark Pictures game?
Opinions vary, but many consider A Little Hope to be the scariest, largely due to its atmosphere and the influence of Silent Hill.
11. Will there be a Devil in Me 2?
There won’t be a direct sequel to The Devil in Me, but rather new standalone entries within Season Two of The Dark Pictures Anthology, which includes Directive 8020.
12. Is the Dark Pictures 2-player?
Yes, the Dark Pictures games, including The Devil in Me, feature a two-player online co-operative mode where choices made affect both players.
13. Will there be a Dark Pictures Anthology season 2?
Yes, Directive 8020 is the first title of the second season of The Dark Pictures Anthology, which will consist of four new installments.
14. Is Directive 8020 based on a true story?
While the title is inspired by the real NASA Directive 8020, the game itself is a work of fiction. It provides the setting and foundation for the terrifying narrative.
15. Should you play the Dark Pictures games in order?
No, you can enjoy the Dark Pictures Anthology in any order, as each game tells a standalone story. There is no overarching narrative to keep you from experiencing them in any order you like.
Conclusion
Directive 8020 is shaping up to be a thrilling and innovative entry in the Dark Pictures Anthology, shifting from terrestrial horror to the depths of space. As we await further details and the game’s eventual release, fans can look forward to another terrifying journey filled with compelling characters, challenging choices, and the intense horror that defines the series. With Season Two now underway, the Dark Pictures Anthology continues to be a cornerstone of the narrative horror genre, offering a consistent stream of unique and frightening experiences.