Against the backdrop of challenging legal battles and a rollercoaster journey, Ironmace Games’ medieval extraction looter, Dark and Darker, has finally stepped onto the stage of early access. Although the path leading here has been fraught with obstacles, the game’s arrival marks a significant moment in its development story.
The journey of Dark and Darker has been no stranger to turmoil. Following its promising reception during Valve’s Steam Next Fest earlier this year, the game found itself caught in a legal storm.
Korean game publisher Nexon accused Ironmace of copyright infringement, alleging that elements of the game were crafted from materials and assets previously worked on during their tenure at Nexon. Ironmace has staunchly denied these claims, initiating a complex legal tussle.
Amidst the legal turmoil, Dark and Darker was yanked off Steam due to a cease and desist demand from Nexon. This setback was followed by several delays in the game’s planned early access launch, which was originally slated for the late April to early May timeframe. The journey was far from smooth, but Ironmace remained determined.
A New Dawn: Early Access Breakthrough
As of today, Dark and Darker has triumphed over adversity. Rather than depending on existing platforms, Ironmace chose to blaze a new trail with its own launcher, aptly named Blacksmith.
Through this platform, the game is now available for purchase directly from Ironmace’s website and the digital storefront Chaf Games. The early access version acknowledges its work-in-progress status, with several essential features set to be added in the months ahead.
Ironmace acknowledges potential bugs, seeking players’ patience and understanding as they navigate these initial stages. For those undeterred by these challenges, the early access release offers a standard edition, complete with the game and early access perks.
Alternatively, a more comprehensive founder’s edition comes with added bonuses, including cosmetic items and the intriguing “test access”.
Dark and Darker’s early access also introduces an in-game shop, a subject Ironmace addresses with candor. The studio acknowledges the business reality of running an online game while striving to uphold a respectful relationship with its fans. This in-game shop offers an alternative to the randomness of loot boxes, demonstrating a commitment to transparency and player satisfaction.
A Glimpse into the Future
The fate of Dark and Darker’s early access remains intertwined with the outcome of its legal battles. While uncertainties linger, the game remains available for purchase, offering players the opportunity to partake in its evolving world.
Ironmace’s ambitions extend beyond the present, as the developer eyes a potential return to Steam, aiming to regain a spot on Valve’s storefront “as soon as possible.”
The journey of Dark and Darker, marked by perseverance and determination, continues to evolve, underscoring the resilience of both the developers and the gaming community that eagerly awaits its unfolding narrative.
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