Phosphor Games have announced this week that they will be re-launching their Dark Meadow game as a free title from next week. This exciting development will allow gamers to enjoy the atmospheric game without any outlay, making it accessible to a broader audience.
However, if you want to play the entire game, there will be an “exclusive upgrade” fee to fully unlock it, priced at $5.99. At GDC 2012, Chip Sineni explained to Joystiq that the reason behind the price shift was because “We just want to get the game in as many hands as possible,”. Watch the trailer after the jump to see it in action.
Game Mechanics and Features
Dark Meadow runs on the Unreal Engine 3 and is a first-person action and adventure game. Players are equipped with a crossbow for ranged combat and a sword for close, melee combat. They must battle their way out of a “nightmare world filled with fantastical creatures bent on destroying them.” The game combines elements of horror and fantasy, creating a unique and immersive experience.
“Role-playing game mechanics enhance the exploration, as a wide variety of items are secreted throughout the world – from hidden scraps of paper that reveal the mystery of your imprisonment, to money which can be used to purchase better equipment and weapons.” This aspect of the game encourages players to thoroughly explore their surroundings, adding depth and replayability.
The game also features a rich narrative that unfolds as players progress, with various clues and pieces of lore scattered throughout the environment. This storytelling approach keeps players engaged and invested in uncovering the secrets of the Dark Meadow.
Availability and Accessibility
Dark Meadow will be available for free in both the iTunes App Store and Google Play store from next week. This move to a free-to-play model is expected to attract a larger player base, as it removes the initial cost barrier. The game’s developers hope that by making the game free, more players will be enticed to try it out and potentially invest in the exclusive upgrade to unlock the full experience.
The decision to offer an exclusive upgrade for $5.99 allows players to experience the game without any financial commitment initially, while still providing a monetization strategy for the developers. This model has been successful for many mobile games, as it balances accessibility with the potential for revenue generation.
The game’s atmospheric design, combined with its engaging combat mechanics and rich storytelling, makes Dark Meadow a standout title in the mobile gaming market. By leveraging the power of Unreal Engine 3, the developers have created a visually stunning and immersive world that draws players in and keeps them coming back for more.
The re-launch of Dark Meadow as a free title is a strategic move by Phosphor Games to broaden their audience and increase the game’s accessibility. With its compelling gameplay, intricate story, and high-quality graphics, Dark Meadow is poised to capture the interest of many new players. Be sure to download it from the iTunes App Store or Google Play store next week and experience the dark, mysterious world for yourself.
Source: Joystiq
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