The Darkest Files
Release date: Mar 25, 2025
Developers: Paintbucket Games
Publishers: Paintbucket Games
Genres: Adventure, Indie, Simulation
Categories: Single-player, Steam Achievements, Full controller support, Steam Trading Cards, Captions available, Adjustable Text Size, Camera Comfort, Custom Volume Controls, Adjustable Difficulty, Keyboard Only Option, Mouse Only Option, Playable without Timed Input, Save Anytime, Subtitle Options, Steam Cloud, Family Sharing
Supported languages: English, German, French

Justice requires courage. The courage to uncover truths that no one wants to see. The courage to confront former murderers who now wear suits and command respect. The courage to be threatened, ostracised or worse. And the courage to look into the darkness and be changed forever. You are Esther Katz, a young prosecutor who has just joined Fritz Bauer's new special unit. Your task seems impossible: to investigate crimes committed years ago, where evidence has been destroyed, witnesses silenced and the perpetrators embedded in the highest ranks of society. Every decision matters. Every interrogation can bring you closer to the perpetrator or lead you astray. Silence is your worst enemy. Time is working against you. And German society is not ready to face its past. In 1956, Fritz Bauer and his team of “Nazi hunters” demanded justice when everyone else demanded silence. A small team of prosecutors defying an entire nation. Criminals hiding in plain sight as respected citizens. Experience their dangerous struggle through the immersive investigations. Uncover truths a country has fought to keep buried. Challenge a society desperate to rewrite its own past. Investigate two extensive cases based on true Nazi-era crimes Interrogate witnesses and suspects, break through walls of silence and expose lies Witness different versions of events through Esther's 'mind's eye' as you perceive testimonies - which may be truthful, distorted, or deliberately false Reconstruct events step by step from fragmented evidence and testimonies Prosecute perpetrators in court with the right charges, where your investigative thoroughness will be put to the test Shape the outcome with multiple endings - succeed in bringing justice or face the harsh reality of a perpetrator walking free Explore Esther's story, her past and her relationships with family, colleagues and the iconic Fritz Bauer Immerse yourself in stunning cell-shaded 3D graphics inspired by 1950s pulp comics, complete with comic panels that reflect the era Listen to full English voice acting bringing every character to life 

Press reviews: “The Darkest Files is a captivating experience. It’s a mix of engaging gameplay and historical context that makes The Darkest Files shine bright.” CBR “The Darkest Files is a touching detective-adventure with a real historic background and an important view of the Nazi-Era.” 8/10 – IGN “The Darkest Files is an absolute must-play. A Masterpiece” 4.8/5 – Gamescreed 

Notes: This Game may contain content not appropriate for all ages. Some scenes feature disturbing content in the form of narrative text or imagery and a sensitive general theme.