Story Mode (Wintermute) Overview

Get a friendly guide to BLACKFROST: The Long Dark II's Story Mode (Wintermute). Learn about the Quiet Apocalypse, survival in Harmont, and new challenges.

Hey there! So, you're diving into BLACKFROST: The Long Dark II and want to know about the Story Mode, right? It's called Wintermute, and it's where you'll experience the aftermath of the Aurora's appearance. A year has passed since everything went dark, and now folks in Harmont and the surrounding wilderness are trying to survive this 'Quiet Apocalypse'. This new chapter builds on the foundation of the original The Long Dark, which Hinterland Studio Inc. has been developing for about 10 years. BLACKFROST is designed to be a next-generation survival RPG, and it's looking to expand beyond just surviving for yourself. The developers are asking, 'How far will you go to survive for others?' This hints at a deeper narrative, possibly involving NPC communities and even other players in co-op. While the team is still wrapping up Episode 5: The Light At The End Of All Things for the original The Long Dark, they've announced BLACKFROST with a teaser in 2025, and it's slated for an Early Access release in 2026. They want BLACKFROST and the original The Long Dark to coexist, offering different perspectives on the Quiet Apocalypse while respecting your investment in the first game. Expect familiar wildlife and tools from Great Bear Island, but also new hazards and a fresh survival sandbox. The story will unfold in the northern industrial city of Harmont and its vast environs. It's a world that's both beautiful and dangerous, full of adventure, mystery, and opportunity. Keep an eye out for more details as they emerge!