For nearly twenty-five years, Ice-Pick Lodge has explored what makes games a transformative medium. From the beginning, we chose video games as a means, not a market. We wanted to reach human emotions that no other form could touch. Had theater or cinema been able to move the soul as deeply and precisely as games do, we might have founded a film company or theater troupe instead. However, it was games that proved to be the most intimate form of communication between creators and their audience.

Over the years, this pursuit has shaped our identity. Each of our projects has been an attempt to see how far a game can go in reflecting the inner worlds of its players.

Our next project takes us into unprecedented territory. For the first time in our history, we’re stepping into someone else’s universe. It’s our pleasure to announce that we are making Darkwood 2. We will be working within the world created by Acid Wizard Studio, a team whose work we deeply respect.

Set years later after the events of the first game, this is an unusual and exciting opportunity for us to interpret the vision of other masters through our creative process and see what new life emerges from that dialogue. Darkwood 2 will bring new lands and waters to explore, new creatures to fear, and new reasons to pray for the morning light.

Check out the announcement trailer:

We’re also thrilled that this collaboration is happening with Hooded Horse, an indie publisher whose expertise, understanding, and genuine love for video games are unmatched. We have great respect for the team that recognized the potential of projects such as Empires of the Undergrowth, 9 Kings, and Against the Storm and guided them to incredible success. There is definitely a signature style here. Together, we will work in consultation with the Acid Wizard team to ensure that Darkwood 2 is a memorable successor to the original game.

What comes next is as much a mystery to us as it is to you—and that’s exactly why it’s worth doing! We’re excited to have you join us for this journey, wherever it may take us.