New Blood Interactive has unveiled a stunning free HD DLC remaster of “Dusk,” their acclaimed retro first-person shooter (FPS), commemorating the game’s fifth anniversary. This remaster not only revitalizes a classic but also ushers in new possibilities for modding enthusiasts.
The original “Dusk,” with its throwback style to 1990s shooters like “Half-Life” and “Doom,” has been a standout in the FPS genre. Its HD remaster is primarily the result of dedicated work by two developers: Ben Moir, who has reengineered the game’s engine over the past five years, and David Bonin, responsible for remastering all original visual assets and adding new ones. Their efforts have been rewarded, with New Blood Interactive promising to split all profits from December sales of “Dusk” between them.
This remaster also features contributions from 3D artist Cody Lambert, who crafted new enemy and weapon models, and animators Don Antonazzo and Lachlan Milne. These contributors, initially external contractors, have since become full-time employees at New Blood, reflecting the project’s significance and their commitment to it.
A Step Forward for Modding
The release of the HD remaster precedes the much-anticipated launch of the Dusk Development Kit (DDK), a comprehensive set of modding tools. While “Dusk” has been modifiable to a degree for years, the introduction of the DDK will greatly enhance the capabilities of the game’s modding community. The new tools will allow for the introduction of custom models, entities, and weapons, as well as the use of files from the HD remaster.
Currently, players can use the basic software development kit and Steam Workshop tools for creating and playing custom maps, including drag-and-drop options for “Quake” and “Half-Life” maps, and for texture and sound replacements. The full power of the DDK, however, will unlock new levels of creativity and customization.
A Nostalgic Addition and Reflections on the Genre
In a nostalgic nod, New Blood Interactive has also reintroduced a weapon from the original “Dusk” beta into the HD remaster. This unique weapon, resembling a trash claw grabber that shoots demon energy, adds an intriguing element to the game’s already rich arsenal.
The term “boomer shooter,” used to describe games like “Dusk,” evokes mixed feelings. Originally coined to refer to retro-style shooters popular among older gamers, the label has been both embraced and criticized. It’s a reminder of the genre’s roots and its evolution, as games like “Dusk” bridge the gap between nostalgic homage and modern gaming innovation.