Paintbucket Games

The Darkest Files

The Darkest Files is a historical investigation and courtroom game based on true crimes of the Nazi era. Investigate cold cases, search for clues, interrogate witnesses, immerse the crimes and defend your case in court to bring the perpetrators to justice.

Released: 25 March 2025
Developer: Paintbucket Games
Publisher: Paintbucket Games
Engine: Unity
Perspective: First person · Text
Age rating: PEGI 16 · ESRB M
Controller: Full controller support
Metacritic: 80/100
Steam recommendations: 650
Platforms: Xbox Series X|S · PlayStation 4 · PC (Microsoft Windows) · PlayStation 5 · Mac · Xbox One · Nintendo Switch
Genres: Puzzle · Simulator · Adventure · Indie

76
Player rating: 8
Ratings counted: 96.1%
Steam reviews: 46
Achievements: 4
DLC packs

The Darkest Files

Quick answers

Crossplay System requirements 8 GB RAM Download size 5.0 GB Steam Deck Verified

The Darkest Files

The story

You are Esther Katz, a young prosecutor who has just joined Fritz Bauer's new special unit. Your task seems impossible: to investigate crimes committed years ago, where evidence has been destroyed, witnesses silenced and the perpetrators embedded in the highest ranks of society. Every decision matters. Every interrogation can bring you closer to the perpetrator or lead you astray. Silence is your worst enemy. Time is working against you. And German society is not ready to face its past.

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Key facts

Platforms

Game modes

Single player

Themes

Historical
Drama
Mystery

The Darkest Files

Trailer

The Darkest Files

Screenshots

The Darkest Files

Reviews and languages

96.1% of 737 Steam reviews are positive. Valve labels that “Overwhelmingly Positive”.

5 languages in the interface, 2 of them with full voice acting. English is supported, with full voice acting.

Publisher's content notice

This Game may contain content not appropriate for all ages. Some scenes feature disturbing content in the form of narrative text or imagery and a sensitive general theme.

The Darkest Files