Cthulhu: The Cosmic Abyss is one that I am extremely excited for. I write horror short stories, and horror games are some of my favorites. Cthulhu: The Cosmic Abyss is slated to be released on April 16, 2026. This game is coming to Steam, PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series X|S.
This is an action/adventure game developed by Big Bad Wolf and published by Nacon.
These two images are some of my favorites in the bunch. The atmosphere here appears to be nailed. The first image is a bit confusing to me, but I do adore the second image. I love the red and black coming together. We can also see hints of orange.
Again, the first image doesn't do anything for me, but the second one is what sold me on this game. At first, I thought that we were seeing the creatures, but they look more like statues here.
We also got news on a few gameplay mechanics.
Lesquin, France, February 18, 2026 – As the release of Cthulhu: The Cosmic Abyss draws near, NACON and developer Big Bad Wolf are pleased to unveil a new gameplay trailer entirely dedicated to one of the game's core pillars: investigation. This video plunges players into the heart of Noah's investigation in a seemingly abandoned underwater mining station, where his sanity is put to the test against unspeakable horrors.
To discover the unique atmosphere and original mechanics of this narrative investigation game before its release on April 16, players can try the public demo on PC during the Steam Next Fest on February 23rd.
This new trailer takes us through the oppressive corridors of the Ocean-I mining station, which Noah finds deserted. The location bears the marks of a fierce struggle and a devastating madness: claw marks on the walls, strange runes painted in blood, unknown organic matter, a severed arm… all clues that point to violent and occult events. To understand what happened, the player must use their wits and the abilities of their personal AI called KEY.
The trailer highlights several key mechanics:
- Clue Analysis: KEY is permanently connected to the database of the ANCILE (the agency Noah works for). This allows it to cross-reference what Noah finds in the field with what other investigators have encountered in previous cases. Analyzing evidence allows KEY to determine the composition of materials, which in turn unlocks new frequencies for its sonar. These frequencies can then be used to track elements with a similar composition.
- The Sonar: A multitasking tool, the sonar helps Noah navigate dimly lit areas and discover hidden paths by highlighting volumes. Another feature allows it to track clues by tuning into specific frequencies. In the trailer, the player tracks bloodstains through the station to learn more about the attack on the Ocean-I personnel.
- Object Manipulation: Every object can hold a secret. By inspecting evidence from all angles, Noah and KEY can uncover additional information and hidden clues essential for progressing in their investigation.
Dive into an investigation where every decision shapes your destiny and your sanity. In Cthulhu: The Cosmic Abyss, each chapter presents a dilemma: will you choose the obvious but perilous path, accelerating your descent into madness, or the more subtle trail that requires thorough investigation to make the right choice? Be warned, every discovery comes at a price, and your decisions will directly impact the end of your story.
Cthulhu: The Cosmic Abyss is a narrative investigation game inspired by the universe of Lovecraft. In this frightening first-person thriller, the player embodies Noah, an agent of the Ancile, an office specializing in occult affairs, investigating the mysterious disappearance of miners in the heart of the Pacific Ocean. His research will plunge him into the depths of the immense labyrinthine prison of R'lyeh, an ancient sunken city where Cthulhu is held captive. The player and theirAI companion, KEY, will have to solve complex puzzles, make choices that will influence his destiny, and try to resist the corruption of the mind caused by the influence of Cthulhu.
