We’ve discussed Tenebris: Terra Incognita before, and in recent days, the developer Phantasmica Studios has released an updated demo. This demo introduces a range of new features, including functioning ship bays with an upgrade system, the ability to hire new heroes and form custom squads, and a challenging new mission chain.
Players can also enjoy improved hero animations, new combat effects, revamped talent trees, and an enhanced loot system with new weapons and armor. Additionally, the demo now supports German, Spanish, and Chinese translations, allowing heroes to evolve up to level 10. This new version provides a clear glimpse into what the project is and aims to be when it officially launches in Early Access on September 30, 2024, for PC via Steam.
Story and Setting
The game takes place on Tenebris, an unknown and hostile planet where the spaceship Solaris has crash-landed. Players assume the role of the commander of a survivor squad, tasked with exploring this perilous world and rescuing the ship’s crew.
Tenebris is teeming with terrifying monsters, treacherous environments, and secrets waiting to be uncovered. The narrative unfolds through both main and side missions, driven by the Solaris command team, which includes five key members who assist the player in making strategic and tactical decisions.
Gameplay and Mechanics
The gameplay focuses on turn-based combat that demands meticulous planning and strategic resource management. Each mission pits players against a variety of enemies, often in specific regions of the planet, each with its own unique features and tactics. Early encounters include extremely territorial insects in the Misty Wastes, known for their aggression and coordinated attacks, posing a constant threat to the crew.
One of the standout features of Tenebris: Terra Incognita is its deep character customization. Players start by choosing from five base classes, each with clearly defined roles. As the game progresses, these classes can evolve into 17 advanced classes, each with its own talent trees.
This system allows players to develop unique heroes, tailoring their skills and gear to meet Tenebris’s specific challenges. The game also includes a comprehensive inventory system, where weapons, armor, and special items enhance character stats and can modify their abilities or grant new powers.
The Solaris serves as the central hub where players can plan missions, purchase equipment, recruit new team members, and heal the wounded. There’s also a medical bay on board where they can buy stimulants to boost their soldiers temporarily. However, resources are scarce, so managing them wisely is crucial for ensuring your team’s survival.
The game features a 2D hand-drawn art style, contributing to a dark and unsettling atmosphere that perfectly complements its sci-fi theme. The aesthetic echoes the grim and oppressive tones of Darkest Dungeon, heightening the sense of constant danger and uncertainty that permeates every mission.
