Frogware’s “The Sinking City 2” Transforms into a Thrilling Horror Experience

In a surprising twist, The Sinking City 2, launched during the latest XBOX Partner Preview broadcast, has undergone a significant transformation. While the first game was primarily a detective adventure with elements of horror, its sequel has fully embraced its dark and aggressive nature, solidifying itself as a true horror game. Frogwares, the studio behind the game, is no stranger to the horror genre, having found success with their previous title, The Sinking City. Now, they are taking it a step further by intensifying the combat elements and maintaining a Lovecraftian narrative at its core.

The new game retains some familiar elements from its predecessor. Set in the early 20th century, The Sinking City 2 takes place in a city plagued by flooding and inhabited by characters struggling to comprehend the horrors lurking within. However, this time around, players will be thrust headfirst into a full-fledged horror story, powered by the impressive Unreal Engine 5. The city in question is Arkham, a name that Lovecraft fans will undoubtedly recognize, though it is important to note that this Arkham is unrelated to Batman’s stomping grounds.

Sergey Oganesyan, Frogwares Head of Publishing, remains tight-lipped about specific story details but assures fans that the game will draw inspiration from both new Lovecraft stories and the original game. Iconic Lovecraftian monsters like the Deep Ones will take center stage, promising a terrifying experience. Frogwares has always put their own unique spin on classic influences, as demonstrated by their acclaimed Sherlock Holmes games. With The Sinking City 2, they aim to create an original horror story that will captivate players.

The decaying city of Arkham serves as a backdrop for the twisted narrative. Its inhabitants have become accustomed to the supernatural horrors that have plagued their lives, their minds warped and contorted as a result. Players will assume the role of a new protagonist, as Frogwares intentionally chose to offer a fresh perspective. This decision allows both returning fans and newcomers to immerse themselves in the game without feeling burdened by the events of the first installment.

The most significant change in The Sinking City 2 lies in its gameplay. The game shifts its focus from primarily being a detective experience with occasional combat elements to one that prioritizes combat and exploration. The combat system has been revamped to become central to the gameplay, accompanied by visually horrifying enemy designs. Frogwares has also made improvements to the city design, creating a smaller, more cohesive world that enhances the overall flow of the game.

While detective work remains a part of the experience, it is now optional. Players can choose to investigate clues, gaining valuable information that can alter their progression. For instance, uncovering additional details may provide insight into weakening a formidable boss or reveal alternative routes. The choice to pursue these investigations is entirely up to the player, allowing for a more personalized and immersive gameplay experience.

The development of The Sinking City 2 has not been without its challenges. Frogwares found themselves in the midst of the war in Ukraine during the early stages of pre-production in February 2022. This forced them to halt their work indefinitely. However, the studio has persevered and adapted to the circumstances, ensuring a stable workflow and allowing them to resume development on the game. This resilience adds an extra layer of significance to the changes being made, as they reflect the unwavering determination and passion of the entire team.

Despite the ongoing war on their doorstep, Frogwares remains committed to delivering The Sinking City 2. The creative process provides them with a respite from the harsh realities of everyday life, allowing them to find solace and a sense of normalcy. They have overcome numerous obstacles and are determined to see their vision come to fruition. The Sinking City 2 is a labor of love, driven by a team that refuses to be deterred by adversity.