Dark December Launches on PC and Mobile

Dark December has officially launched, bringing a new chapter to the dark fantasy universe of Undecember. The free-to-play action RPG is now available for download on PC, Android, and iOS, featuring full crossplay and cross-progression support.

Developed by Needs Games, this new installment serves as a prequel set in an alternate timeline. It introduces a more approachable experience built around three distinct character classes, moving away from the complex progression systems of its predecessor while retaining the series' signature hack-and-slash combat.

The narrative of Dark December transports players back to the world of Undecember, but many years before the events of the original game. The lore begins with a world created by 12 beings who shared their powers, bringing peace and prosperity to the land and eventually being worshipped as gods.

This era of tranquility was shattered by the arrival of a 13th being, who introduced evil to the world and corrupted mankind. The new game explores this universe in an alternate timeline, offering both veterans and newcomers a fresh perspective on the series' foundational story.

Key narrative features include:

• A prequel setting in an alternate timeline
• Exploration of the world before the 13th being's corruption
• A central story taking players through several distinct locations
• A waypoint system for quick travel between areas

While the original Undecember was a quarter-view hack-and-slash game with no classes, Dark December introduces a more structured approach. The gameplay has been streamlined to focus on timing, skill use, and streamlined growth across three core character classes.

The camera system has also been overhauled, now allowing for free movement, which significantly changes how players engage with combat. This design is intended to be more approachable, allowing players new to the series to jump in without feeling overwhelmed by complex systems.

The three distinct classes offer varied playstyles:

• Berserker: A melee-based physical attacker using a two-handed greatsword. It boasts very high HP and defense, designed to rush into enemy hordes. Its unique ability sends the character into a berserk state, speeding up attacks for massive damage.
• Raven: An agile archer class that uses multiple arrow types to exploit enemy weaknesses. It is designed to stay on the move, avoiding damage while picking off targets with precise strikes.
• Morgana: A spellcasting class that wields a staff and summons spirits. It unleashes poison and fire spells while using elemental summons for damage or debuffs, focusing on strategy and versatility.

Progression in Dark December is centered around unlocking unique skills as each class levels up. These skills can be further powered up through a flexible Support Rune system, which allows for deep customization without the complexity of the previous title.

Each skill possesses two Support Rune slots. Runes can only be equipped in slots that are compatible with the skill's specific type and attribute, adding a layer of strategic planning to build creation. Players can freely swap Support Runes at any time, encouraging experimentation for different combat scenarios.

Support Runes are categorized into three main types:

• Offensive Runes: Provide bonuses such as increased damage, higher critical rate, or expanded AoE range.
• Defensive Runes: Offer protective benefits like shielding or damage reduction.
• Utility Runes: Enhance status effects, reduce cooldowns, or increase skill usage count.

Beyond the main story, Dark December offers several gameplay modes for players seeking variety. The Abyss of Chaos is a dungeon where players can choose a region, altering the level and rewards. It also features the Realm of Chaos, a random event spawning powerful bosses that drop rare materials.

For those who enjoy a challenge, the Hall of Oblivion allows players to select a difficulty level and fight bosses from around the world. Additionally, Dimensional Rift: Veles is a defense mode supporting up to four players teaming up to survive endless waves of enemies.

The game's monetization strategy is designed to be player-friendly. The system focuses primarily on cosmetic items such as costumes and wings. The developers have ensured that players who choose not to spend money are not at a disadvantage, as stat-increasing items are available through alternative routes like crafting or direct gameplay.

Dark December represents a significant evolution of the Undecember universe, balancing accessibility with deep combat mechanics. By simplifying progression and introducing a class-based system, it opens the door for a wider audience to experience the dark fantasy world.

The game is available now for free download on PC, Android, and iOS. With its cross-platform capabilities and focus on fair monetization, it stands as a compelling option for action RPG fans looking for a new challenge.