Ocean Drive Studio has announced Blackout Protocol is hitting full release alongside console ports next winter, news confirmed with an overhaul of the game’s direction.

First released as a multiplayer-focused co-op shooter, Blackout Protocol is switching things up to be more of a “dedicated single-player experience”, with multiplayer being optional.

Blackout Protocol has been available in early access for Windows PC (via Steam) and will hit full release across PC, Xbox Series X|S, and PlayStation 5.

“Since the start of Blackout Protocol’s Early Access in July of 2023, we’ve been closely listening to feedback from our players,” Ocean Drive said in a press release. “Now, in response to their input, we’re making a hard pivot to the game’s overall vision, to ensure the game’s final release (slated for next winter) surprises and delights both current fans and new players alike.”

They added, “Over the coming months, we’ll be rolling out three major updates that delve deep into Blackout Protocol’s narrative, unravel the mysteries of Section 13, and introduce a flurry of new features and mechanical overhauls. The first update, scheduled for this summer, marks the beginning of this new journey.”

The new build of Blackout Protocol is playable at PAX East 2024 this weekend at the Ocean Drive Studio booth.

Here’s a rundown on the previously announced game, plus a new trailer:

Blackout Protocol is a co-op twin stick shooter with roguelite elements and a tense, spooky atmosphere.

As employees of S2P Corporation, your work seemed so noble: advancing humanity through cutting-edge research into paranatural entities. That is, until they had something to say about it.

Now an internal containment breach has knocked out the power at Section 13, an underground research base where S2P houses its most dangerous subjects. With the entire facility in the dark—literally—it’s up to you and a squad of intrepid coworkers to arm yourselves, delve into the depths, and shed light on what lies within.

Features

• Watch Your Backs . . . and Your Aim – Communication between coworkers is key to surviving the trials of office life. Gather your trio and cover each other’s six as you tackle each floor of Section 13. But with dark, narrow corridors and shifting architecture, friendly fire is a constant threat — so mind where you’re pointing that prototype lightning cannon!
• Illuminate the Situation – Like any workplace, foul creatures lurk in the shadows…and they’d prefer to keep it that way. To take back control, you’ll have to wield the light against them, using your trusty flashlights (and the base’s electrical system) to seize the advantage. But be careful: monsters react to being exposed in unique ways, and they’re not all shy about voicing their displeasure.
• Try Not to Panic – Every job has its stressors, whether it’s tension with management, a slide deck that won’t cooperate, or debilitating psionic damage caused by traumatic contact with otherworldly horrors. As you battle your way to the heart of the facility, keep an eye on your Panic Gauge, or suffer the consequences.
• Get Better or Get Stronger – To support your mission, S2P Corporation is proud to provide select agents with access to its platinum benefits package: the Death Nullification System, or DNS. In the event of catastrophic mission failure, DNS will evacuate your consciousness and transmit it backwards through time. This will enable you to preserve certain skills and abilities between runs, ensuring your next attempt will be a little bit easier. You may also taste copper for a few hours. That’s normal.