Indie developer LABS Works has reintroduced Castle in the Darkness II, the highly anticipated sequel to their action-adventure game.

Initially revealed in 2019, this new yet classic action-adventure title now has a revamped Steam store page and an exciting new trailer. The original game was launched in 2015.

Here’s an overview of the game, along with the latest trailer:

Embark on a journey through a mysterious land in Castle In The Darkness 2 — a dynamic action-adventure game that combines 16-bit nostalgia with contemporary design! Developed by Matt Kap and Simon Parzer (“The Binding of Isaac: Rebirth”), this sequel enhances the original gameplay with a larger world, improved visuals, and more intricate gameplay.

Plot

After a challenging mission, Zeni— a young mercenary— boards a train heading to his hometown of Lumia for a brief reprieve. However, destiny has other plans in store…

Suddenly, a dense fog blankets the woods as monstrous creatures swarm the train, unleashing chaos and carnage. Amidst the chaos, a deeper fear grips Zeni’s heart— his younger sister may already be in peril!

Fueled by desperation and urgency, he battles the creatures to protect his loved ones… but the challenges he encounters are not without purpose. From the shadows arises a festering grudge, a past he cannot escape, and a truth that demands to be unveiled!

Key Highlights

• Expanded Metroidvania-Style World: Traverse a vast, intricate world filled with diverging paths, hidden enclaves, and secrets awaiting discovery! Utilize the world map and detailed mini-maps to navigate as the game world expands!
• Fast-Paced Action: Precise controls and demanding combat elevate the series’ high-speed, skill-based gameplay to new levels! Block, dodge, and target your enemies’ vulnerabilities! Employ the new job system to customize movesets and combat monsters according to your preferences!
• Enhanced Presentation: A bold evolution of the original 8-bit style transports the world of Castle In The Darkness 2 to the 16-bit era! Vibrant colors, smoother animations, and intricate details abound!
• RPG Progression & Customization: Unearth new abilities, weapons, and gear as you grow stronger and adapt your playstyle. Purchase, loot, and encounter hundreds of items with a surprising array of effects!
• Epic Boss Battles: Confront a diverse array of bosses that surpass the scale of the first game. You might even face some familiar adversaries…
• Soundtrack: Immerse yourself in an expansive orchestral rock soundtrack by Matt Kap, perfectly complementing intense boss confrontations and poignant flashbacks.

A Fresh Chapter

Created by a larger team over multiple years, Castle In The Darkness 2 aims to enhance every aspect of the original— from gameplay and world design to music and visuals— while upholding the overarching concepts and allure that defined Castle In The Darkness in 2015. Following successful releases like the critically acclaimed Astalon: Tears of the Earth and Lovish, LABS Works is poised to unleash their most ambitious adventure yet!