Swedish studio Section 9 Interactive Studios today unveiled the first details of its new project titled End of Abyss, announced last June during the Summer Game Fest. The game aims to refresh the metroidvania formula by introducing a top-down view and twin-stick shooter mechanics, all immersed in a decidedly dark and mature atmosphere, with horror hues.

The project, the developers explain, underwent an important evolution during the early stages of development. Initially, End of Abyss was conceived as a fast-paced action game with a cartoonish style, but the team later decided to change course towards more serious tones. Inspired by sci-fi anime and horror movie classics, the developers have slowed down the pace of the game to prioritize tension, turning the experience into an adventure where atmosphere plays a key role.

As we explore the game world, we will have a special scanning tool at our disposal, designed to make the investigation of the environments deeper and less dispersive. Thanks to this scanner, we will be able to analyze the creatures and their surroundings to obtain valuable information about the narrative universe, while discovering secrets that would otherwise remain hidden. The tool will also allow us to mark points of interest on the map, a fundamental help to orient ourselves within the intricate structures typical of the genre and better manage progression.

Although a definitive release date has not yet been announced, the launch of End of Abyss is expected later this year. We leave you to the original announcement trailer, in case you missed it 7 months ago.