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On 25 March 2025, [Paintbucket Games](/company/paintbucket-games) will release The Darkest Files for PC and Switch. The spiritual successor to Through the Darkest of Times has already won the 'Most Promising Game' and 'Most Anticipated Game' awards at the Indie Cup Germany 2023 in its early form.

Players take on the role of Esther Katz, a young prosecutor tasked with solving real-life crimes committed during the Nazi era and bringing the perpetrators to justice. The game includes two authentic cases based on true events, as well as an overarching narrative. Thanks to the successful Kickstarter campaign, additional smaller storylines around the office can also be integrated.

"We believe in creating games that not only entertain, but also educate and provoke reflection," said Jörg Friedrich. "With The Darkest Files, we want to deliver an immersive experience that respects history and engages players in a story that feels as urgent and relevant today as ever. The Kickstarter campaign is a call to our community to join us in this ambitious project and build on the legacy of Through the Darkest of Times."

Paintbucket Games is an indie game studio based in Berlin, Germany, with a team of around 15 people. Founded by Jörg Friedrich and Sebastian St. Schulz, the studio focuses on creating games that deal with well-researched historical and political issues. Paintbucket Games takes a stand against hate and discrimination and aims to empower players to respectfully engage with past and present issues through its creations.

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Paintbucket Games Releases The Darkest Files at the End of March 2025