Before The Dark

Follow an emotional journey of loss and rediscovery in BEFORE THE DARK, an atmospheric and experiential game. Explore shadowy woods and unfold a story told through two different perspectives, each searching for something lost. Don’t forget that even in darkness, meaning can be found in unexpected ways. Will you find what you’re seeking for?

The game is played in first—and third-person perspective. It explores themes of loss metaphorically and is up to the player's interpretation.

HOW TO PLAY

THE GAMEPLAY

The game takes players on an emotional journey toward accepting loss—a process that is often non-linear and filled with frustration and loneliness. It begins with an introductory level, a simple first-person exploration where the protagonist discovers a wounded creature in the forest.

In the next phase, players can help the creature heal. However, venturing too deeply into the forest can have dire consequences. 

To find their way home and come to terms with their fading memories, players must rely on heightened senses, such as their hearing, to navigate the journey and uncover inner peace.

THE ART

The art is inspired by a handpainted style and traditional 2D animation techniques. It contains frame-by-frame cutscenes and every object/character has a unique, handpainted texture in the game.

CREDITS

The game was created as a part of a three-month-long game project course at Aalto University in 2024.