Directive 8020: Release Date, Trailers, Gameplay, and More Details.
The upcoming narrative adventure game from Supermassive will delve into the horrors of space travel and extraterrestrial life. Here’s everything we’ve learned about Directive 8020.
Supermassive Games, known for its acclaimed horror game Until Dawn, has continued its trajectory in the realm of narrative horror with nearly annual releases. Its upcoming production, Directive 8020, has been highly anticipated, especially among fans of narrative-focused horror video games. This game is part of a growing trend of titles set in space, like Intergalactic: The Heretic Prophet and Saros, although Directive 8020 stands out for its focus on player choices that will impact the narrative.
Despite being revealed this year, Directive 8020 is expected to launch on October 2, 2025, strategically coinciding with Halloween season, promising to be an excellent opportunity for genre fans. The game will be available on platforms such as PS5, Xbox Series X/S, and PC. While there is a possibility of it arriving on Switch 2, there are no precedents with other Supermassive titles on that console.
The narrative trailer for Directive 8020 was presented at the February State of Play event, offering a first look at the game and confirming the release date. The story unfolds aboard the ship Cassiopeia, which is on a mission to explore a new planet in a context where Earth has become unsustainable. However, things take a turn when, after four years of travel, a crack in the hull is detected, along with a murder and a forced landing that plunges the crew into chaos. An alien threat is also introduced, capable of mimicking any crew member, evoking a feeling reminiscent of The Thing. The main characters known so far are Brianna Young and Commander Staford, played by Lashana Lynch and Danny Sapani, respectively.
The gameplay in Directive 8020 will follow a familiar format for Supermassive followers, as it remains a third-person narrative adventure where players will control five characters. Exploring environments, interacting with other characters, and making critical decisions are at the heart of the experience, promising that choices will be more challenging than in previous installments. Additionally, new mechanics are introduced, such as gear that includes a flashlight that illuminates but also reveals the character's position, and a scanner that can remotely interact with electronic devices. A new tool, referred to as the "wedge tool," allows players to open doors and, in extreme situations, stun alien creatures, though it is not lethal.
Interestingly, Directive 8020 is not yet available for pre-order, despite its confirmed release date. More information about pre-orders is expected to be revealed in the near future.
