Rome, January 2026 – Italy’s independent studio ActionGames.c.l.r. is kicking off the new year with a potent message for gamers: their upcoming title, Darkness: Prince of Shadows, isn’t just evolving—it’s undergoing a significant transformation.

Fresh images released alongside a New Year’s greeting offer the first concrete look at a major gameplay overhaul, promising to reshape the demo already available on Steam. Is this the action-adventure game we’ve been waiting for, blending classic inspirations with a modern twist?

A close examination of the newly released screenshots reveals a dramatic evolution. The in-game scenes now showcase increased depth, granting both characters and enemies greater freedom of movement. Certain areas have visibly expanded, designed to support broader and more dynamic exploration. This isn’t just about pretty visuals; it implies a fundamental shift in how players will navigate and interact with the dark dungeons of Mordecoom.

The most striking revelation, however, is the move towards a hybrid gameplay experience that blends 2D and 3D elements. Characters are no longer confined to a single plane; they now spread across the environment, offering fluid navigation. The camera, while “clearly defined,” allows players to move beyond a single axis, an approach explicitly reminiscent of iconic titles like Dante’s Inferno and God of War. Can this innovative blend truly capture the frenetic combat and narrative depth of its inspirations while forging its own identity?

The developers at ActionGames.c.l.r. are clearly committed to this new direction. They shared insights, stating, “We’ve implemented almost all the changes related to this major gameplay evolution… Right now, we’re focusing on graphical polish and on adding new disruptive elements during combat sections.” This commitment to refining the experience, particularly in combat, is crucial. With increased spatial freedom, “additional elements are needed to raise the level of intensity and create a more frenetic and engaging fighting experience.”

ActionGames.c.l.r., founded in Rome in 2021 by Claudio Fabbozzi, Luigi Carace, and Roberto Lisio, quickly found success with their debut title DarkenDerek: The Last Fallen. Now, with Darkness: Prince of Shadows, they aim to push the boundaries of the action-adventure genre, directly drawing inspiration from the intense combat and deep exploration seen in God of War III and Dante’s Inferno.

All that remains is to eagerly await further updates, especially an updated demo, to fully experience this promising evolution. For fans of hard-hitting action and rich narrative, Darkness: Prince of Shadows is shaping up to be an unexpected contender. The question isn’t if it will be a dark adventure, but how truly epic it will become.

Source: ActionGames.c.l.r.