Directive 8020 is an upcoming cinematic sci-fi survival horror game from Supermassive Games (creators of Until Dawn, The Quarry, and The Dark Pictures Anthology), launching on May 12, 2026, for PS5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC via Steam.
Story Overview
Players control a crew of five astronauts on the colony ship Cassiopeia, which crash-lands on the alien planet Tau Ceti f after fleeing a dying Earth.
A shapeshifting alien organism ("the Hunter") mimics humans perfectly, creating intense paranoia as you question who's real and who's an imposter.
Key characters include pilot Brianna "Young" (voiced by Lashana Lynch), commander Nolan Stafford, and others. The story unfolds across branching chapters with multiple endings based on your decisions.
Core Gameplay Mechanics
Played in third-person perspective, it combines narrative-driven adventure, survival horror, stealth, and light action elements.
Switch between the five protagonists to explore dark ship corridors, service tunnels, and the alien planet's harsh landscape.
No traditional guns—rely on a multifunctional utility strap inventory for tools like:
- Scanner (to detect mimics or electronics)
- Wedge tool (for prying doors or stunning threats)
- Messenger (crew communication)
- Remote (hacking systems)
Movement feels smoother and more responsive than previous Supermassive titles, with added clambering, crouch-walking, and improved exploration.
Stealth & Evasion
Stealth is the primary focus: hide in shadows, use radar pings to track enemies through walls, distract with throwable objects, or navigate dynamically patrolling threats.
Failures lead to chases, combat transitions, or quick-time events (QTEs). Sections include tense stealth in areas like hydroponics labs or tunnels, with environmental hazards like alien growths.
Combat & Survival
Use improvised weapons (e.g., stun baton that recharges for QTE-based escapes).
No permadeath in standard mode, but character deaths are permanent and impact the story.
Emphasis on lightning reflexes, environmental puzzles, and outwitting the mimic threat.
Choices & Branching Narrative
Every decision matters—scan crewmates, accuse others, build or erode trust.
A new Turning Points system lets you rewind to key moments to explore alternate paths without full restarts, revealing a story tree for hidden outcomes and replayability.
Chapters are structured for pausing mid-play.
Multiplayer & Accessibility
- Couch co-op (Movie Night mode): Up to 5 players control different crew members (online multiplayer added post-launch for free).
- Adjustable difficulties, including safer modes with reduced enemy awareness or auto-success in stealth.
- Options for reduced gore/violence.
It's a clear evolution from Supermassive's earlier "walking sim" style—more agency, active stealth/combat, and tension while keeping the signature cinematic choices, QTEs, and paranoia-driven horror.
Pre-order bonuses include Digital Deluxe upgrades (outfits, bonus mission, artbook, soundtrack).
Wishlist on Steam or check the official site for more.
