Earlier this year, Dark and Darker received a highly positive response when it was featured in Valve’s Steam Next Fest. Ironmace faced further challenges when Nexon issued a cease and desist demand, resulting in the game being removed from Steam.
However, soon after, Korean game publisher Nexon accused Ironmace of copyright infringement, alleging that developers had used materials and assets from their time at Nexon to Dark And Darker Gold create the game. Ironmace has consistently denied these claims.
Despite finding a workaround to enable players to participate in recent playtests, the early access release, originally scheduled for late April to early May, has experienced multiple delays.
Now, Dark and Darker’s early access is finally available via Ironmace’s own launcher, called Blacksmith, and can be purchased directly from their website and through the digital storefront Chaf Games.
Ironmace acknowledges that this initial early access build lacks many key features, which will be added in the coming months. They also anticipate the presence of bugs and ask for patience and understanding as they work to address these issues.
Players have the choice between the standard edition, offering the full game and early access, or the more expensive founder’s edition, which includes cosmetic items and “test access.”
Additionally, the early access release introduces an in-game shop. Ironmace recognizes that this may be a controversial aspect but emphasizes their commitment to buy Dark And Darker Gold creating a profitable business without resorting to random loot boxes and fear of missing out (FOMO) items.