ShdwFlm and Cyliena dove into the Early Access version of The Long Dark.

The Long Dark is a survival simulation game, developed by Hinterland Studio, currently in Early Access alpha on Steam. Set in the Northern wilderness following the aftermath of a global disaster, you must seek out supplies, explore, brave dangers and more as you strive to survive.

Hinterland offered ZAM review codes to check out the game in this Early Access stage. Check out our impressions below, but keep in mind that they are from the alpha build of the game's sandbox mode and do not reflect the final build of the game.

The sandbox mode of The Long Dark's alpha is hard. No, I take that back—it's hardcore.

The Long Dark retains a realistic feel by taking many factors into account. Jump off a ledge, sprain your ankle. Use a large tree or a rock for a wind break. Smash a can open and lose some contents, but still gain some food from your defeat of that shiny metal container. Use a flare to scare away wolves; stand on a fire to burn yourself.

So many of these things seem pretty obvious, but when you put them together in a survival setting you'll find yourself pleased at the little accomplishments (braving a windstorm behind a rock!) or disgruntled at your screw-ups (why, fire... WHY?!?!?). The game could definitely use some tweaks: my two biggest issues with it currently are how little food consumed lasts, and how aggressive wolves are. Maybe they're just as hungry as us survivors, though.

The howling wind is your strongest companion in The Long Dark. Survive the first night and be greeted by birds flying in the distance as you embark on your day's journey, a reminder that there still might be hope in your future.

~Cyliena

I love it. I hate it. I don't want to play it again. I need to know more.

The Long Dark accomplishes exactly what it wants to: fear through desperate solitude. From the start, you're alone. Very alone. And you feel it. Terrified of my certain demise, I was quickly frozen (figuratively and literally). Do I stay in one spot or move on? I charged headfirst into the unknown.

With this brazen disregard – and vigilant care – for my well-being, I managed to survive a full day. Ultimately, my fate was sealed, so I went out on my own terms. I set myself on fire. The whole experience is beautiful, haunting, and serene.

The alpha only has the 'sandbox' mode right now. The upcoming, more shaped "Story" mode will be very welcome. For the moment, the game is meant for those who truly appreciate the challenge of harsh survival. The Long Dark looks gorgeous, plays well, and is a great example of how fear isn't only manifest in monsters.

~ShdwFlm

 The Long Dark was released on Steam Early Access on Sept. 20th for $20.

Ann "Cyliena" Hosler, Managing Editor
Colt "ShdwFlm" Casey, Deputy Editor

Story of Cyliena's life... in The Long Dark.