Story-driven, survival horror prequel Daymare: 1994 Sandcastle released a free demo as part of the Steam Next Fest celebration from February 21 to February 28.

Set before the events of the critically acclaimed Daymare: 1998, the game follows special agent Dalila Reyes, a former government spy now in service of H.A.D.E.S. (Hexacore Advanced Division for Extraction and Search), as she explores the ominous, labyrinthine depths of the most advanced experimental research center in the United States of America.

Prepare to be transported back in time where you will discover the beginning of this terrifying journey and the mysterious connections that ties this prequel to Daymare: 1998. Explore some of Daymare’s most iconic and captivating locations as you reveal the horror hidden in the most secretive military research center in the USA. Go deeper into increasingly crazy, macabre and hellish environments and take on the ferocious Decoys, the deadly creatures that stand in your way.

Survive a relentless and terrifying hunt using the innovative crowd control mechanics linked to one of the most innovative and original weapons ever, the Frost Grip. But remember, adopting the same strategy will not be enough to survive your mission.

Daymare: 1994 Sandcastle will launch on PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox One, Xbox Series S/X, Nintendo Switch, and PC via Steam later this year. You can wishlist the game on Steam now.

I haven’t played this one yet, but I really like the trailer and the story sounds interesting. Watch this space for my thoughts after I play it a few times.