
Frogwares, the Ukrainian developer renowned for its Sherlock Holmes series, has unveiled the first gameplay footage of The Sinking City 2, its highly anticipated Lovecraftian survival horror sequel. The reveal coincides with the launch of a Kickstarter campaign aimed at funding the game’s development. Building on the success of its 2019 predecessor, The Sinking City 2 promises to deliver a chilling semi-open-world experience filled with exploration, detective work, and survival challenges, all set against the haunting backdrop of a 1920s Arkham, Massachusetts.
A Glimpse into the Horrors of Arkham
The newly released gameplay teaser, though brief, offers a tantalizing look at what players can expect from The Sinking City 2. The sub-minute video begins with atmospheric exploration and clue-gathering, showcasing the game’s signature investigative mechanics. It then transitions into intense combat sequences, highlighting the survival horror elements that will test players’ nerves and resourcefulness. The footage culminates in a series of encounters with grotesque, otherworldly enemies, emphasizing the game’s Lovecraftian roots and its focus on psychological terror.
Frogwares has described The Sinking City 2 as a natural evolution of its horror-first approach, blending the studio’s expertise in narrative-driven gameplay with a more refined open-world structure. The game is set in a flooded, decaying version of Arkham, a fictional city deeply rooted in H.P. Lovecraft’s mythos. Players will investigate a paranormal flood that has unleashed a wave of monstrosities upon the city, threatening the few remaining survivors. This premise echoes the events of the first game, which took place in the similarly afflicted town of Oakmont.
Kickstarter Campaign Launches with Ambitious Goals
To support the development of The Sinking City 2, Frogwares has launched a Kickstarter campaign with a funding goal of €105,000 (approximately $113,000). This marks the studio’s second crowdfunding effort, following the successful campaign for Sherlock Holmes: The Awakened, which raised over $270,000—more than double its original target.
The Kickstarter campaign offers backers a range of rewards, including exclusive access to two Collector’s Editions of The Sinking City 2. These editions will feature physical copies of the game, a rarity in an increasingly digital-focused industry, making them a must-have for dedicated fans. Frogwares has emphasized that supporting the campaign will be the only way to obtain a physical version of the game, adding an extra layer of incentive for collectors and enthusiasts.
A New Chapter for Frogwares
The Sinking City 2 represents a significant step in Frogwares’ ongoing transition into a horror-focused developer. While the studio is best known for its Sherlock Holmes titles, it has steadily been expanding its portfolio to include more horror-centric projects. The sequel builds on the foundation laid by the first Sinking City game, which was praised for its atmospheric storytelling and unique blend of detective work and survival horror.
In addition to The Sinking City 2, Frogwares is rumored to be working on a remaster of the original Sinking City. This speculation stems from a regulatory rating that surfaced in February 2025, though the studio has yet to make an official announcement. With the sixth anniversary of the first game approaching, fans are hopeful that Frogwares will soon reveal more details about the remaster.
What’s Next for The Sinking City 2?
While the exact release date for The Sinking City 2 remains uncertain, the Kickstarter campaign and gameplay reveal have generated significant buzz among fans of the series and survival horror enthusiasts alike. The game’s focus on Lovecraftian horror, combined with Frogwares’ proven track record in narrative-driven gameplay, positions it as one of the most anticipated titles in the genre.
As the campaign progresses, Frogwares is expected to share more details about the game’s development, including additional gameplay footage, story insights, and updates on stretch goals. For now, the first glimpse of The Sinking City 2 has set the stage for what promises to be a terrifying and immersive journey into the heart of Arkham’s darkest secrets.
Key Highlights:
- Gameplay Reveal: The first footage showcases exploration, combat, and terrifying enemies.
- Kickstarter Campaign: Aims to raise €105,000, with exclusive Collector’s Editions for backers.
- Setting: A 1920s Arkham, Massachusetts, plagued by a paranormal flood and monstrous threats.
- Frogwares’ Evolution: Marks the studio’s continued shift toward horror-focused game development.
- Rumored Remaster: A potential remaster of the original Sinking City may be in the works.
With its haunting atmosphere, gripping narrative, and innovative gameplay, The Sinking City 2 is shaping up to be a standout entry in the survival horror genre. Fans of Lovecraftian horror and investigative adventures won’t want to miss this chilling journey into the unknown.