Sony has announced a release date for Until Dawn 2, with the cinematic horror sequel set to arrive on PlayStation 5 on January 28 of next year. The game shifts from the snow-covered alpine resort of its predecessor to a sun-drenched tropical locale.
Until Dawn 2 will follow a crew of TV ghosthunters who, after a supernatural encounter at Blackwood Sanitorium, are led to Akishima Island. This remote island has been abandoned for decades and is said to hide ancient secrets. While the cast will feature new characters, Peter Stormare, who portrayed the unhinged psychiatrist Dr. Hill in the original Until Dawn, is confirmed to be returning, though his role in the new story remains unspecified.
The sequel is being developed by Firesprite Games, a studio based in Liverpool, England, rather than the original developer Supermassive Games. AdHoc Studio, known for last year's Dispatch, is contributing in a narrative capacity. Firesprite creative director Stu Tilley stated on the PlayStation Blog that players can expect a complex story with richly developed characters, sharp dialogue, strained relationships, difficult decisions, and consequential outcomes.
In addition to the standard edition, a Deluxe Digital Edition will be available, including the Y2K Neon Vibes Pack with new outfits for the main cast and the Diorama of Death, which allows players to relive each character's demise from unique angles. Pre-orders, available starting September 10, will include Dr. Hill-themed items such as a classic outfit, an Akishima Island holiday outfit, and collectible Dr. Hill bobbleheads.
This news follows the 10th anniversary of the original Until Dawn, during which creator Will Byles discussed the game's development challenges and its rumored controversial launch reception.