Dark Hours, a co-op survival horror game from French studio Piece of Cake Studios, will officially launch in Steam Early Access on October 24. Designed for up to four players, this game combines the tension of a meticulously planned heist with the terror of a supernatural presence, challenging players to survive against all odds. Following the success of its demo, which 2 million players downloaded, Dark Hours aims to keep players on edge with its unpredictable and eerie gameplay.

A Heist Gone Terrifyingly Wrong

In Dark Hours, you and your team of thieves find yourselves trapped in an auction house, your plans shattered when a supernatural entity takes over the building. Your mission shifts from stealing valuables to surviving the night and escaping the haunting presence before dawn. Priced at $9.99, the game’s early access release will feature five unique monsters, each with their deadly abilities, procedurally generated maps, and varied heist missions. Players can also customize their characters with different skins and items.

Survive Together… or Turn Against Each Other

Dark Hours’ gameplay hinges on teamwork as players navigate the auction house, disable security systems, and solve puzzles to find an escape route. But teamwork is only part of the challenge. Players must remain as quiet as possible, as any noise can attract the lurking creature. Each heist is unpredictable, with procedurally generated scenarios ensuring that no two matches are identical.

Adding to the tension is the ability to steal from other players—a mechanic that can test friendships and add a competitive twist to the co-op dynamic. Some players might even sacrifice a teammate to buy time for their escape in critical situations. The monster becomes more aggressive as night passes, forcing players to adapt their strategies constantly.

Difficulty Levels and a Roadmap for New Content

Dark Hours offers three difficulty settings—Normal, Hard, and Nightmare—allowing players to tailor their experience to their preference. As players progress, they can unlock new items to customize their characters further. The game’s post-launch roadmap promises a wealth of new content, including a new monster, additional characters, and new heist locations. The developers have also teased new cooperative tools and mechanics that will be added during the holiday season and early 2025, ensuring that the game continues evolving.

For those looking to test their nerves and teamwork, Dark Hours is shaping to be a thrilling addition to the co-op horror genre. It offers a blend of strategic gameplay and heart-pounding scares.