As part of its ongoing holiday promotion, the Epic Games Store is offering Hinterland Studio’s exploration-survival title, The Long Dark, at no cost. This is an episodic game that challenges players to survive after a plane crash leaves the protagonist stranded in a chilly, desolate wilderness that contains various dangers such as blood-thirsty wolves.
In addition to three story-oriented episodes (“Do Not Go Gentle,” “Luinance Fugue,” and “Crossroads Elegy”), The Long Dark features a Survival Mode for more seasoned players, as well as various Challenge Modes that comprise objective-based experiences (e.g., time-limited supply runs).
“A thoughtful, exploration-survival experience that challenges solo players to think for themselves as they explore an expansive frozen wilderness in the aftermath of a geomagnetic disaster,” a game description reads. “Only you, the cold, and all the threats Mother Nature can muster.”
The Long Dark should be especially interesting for Mass Effect fans, as it features performances by Mark Meer and Jennifer Hale, who voiced the male and female versions of Commander Shepard, respectively. David Hayter, who provided the voice for Snake in the majority of Metal Gear Solid titles, is also credited.