DARKTIMES

Overview

Darktimes is a free-to-play, Nordic-inspired Brawler Royale set in a harsh medieval world where brutality and blood-magic reign. The game features a physics-based combat system that offers a realistic experience, whether you're engaging in ranged attacks, wielding magic, or fighting in close quarters with freestyle tactics. Every item in the game has a purpose, and nowhere is safe as you battle to survive.  Darktimes is developed by Big Kid Studios in partnership with Blowfish Studios (Animoca Brands) and is set for alpha release in late 2024.

Game Lore

The world of Darktimes is divided into the Seven Realms, each with its own distinct culture, history, and challenges. These realms range from the intellectual stronghold of Salmark, known for its towering structures and scholarly inhabitants, to the treacherous marshes of the Low Places, where the Sythi people have thrived despite the region's dangers.

Each realm is a reflection of its people, shaped by their struggles and achievements over centuries. The looming presence of the Darklands, ruled by the enigmatic Red Order, casts a shadow over the entire world. This mysterious group has begun to exert influence across the realms, calling the bravest warriors to participate in deadly competitions that promise both glory and peril.

The lore of Darktimes is rich with tales of ancient heroes, tragic conflicts, and the constant push and pull of power. Whether it’s the Mountain People of the Silver Mountains, who have tamed the mighty ice-bears, or the seafaring Nuraka of the Three Fjords, every corner of this world is steeped in history and myth. The rise of the Red Order in the Darklands threatens to tip the balance, drawing in warriors from across the realms to test their mettle in a fight for survival and dominance.

Gameplay and Features

Darktimes offers a brutal mix of fast-paced action and RPG elements, with up to 36 players entering each match with nothing but the clothes on their backs. As they explore the dark, atmospheric world, they must scavenge for weapons, armor, and items that give them an edge in combat. The game’s physics-based combat system ensures that every strike, spell, and tactic has weight and impact, making every battle feel visceral and intense.

Players begin as Peasants, armed with nothing but the tattered rags on their backs, and must fight their way to the top in high-stakes, winner-takes-all tournaments. The world of Darktimes is an ominous, gothic landscape, filled with violence, mistrust, and unrest. In the distant Darklands, a dormant power stirs, casting a malevolent gaze over the commonfolk. Players can develop their characters through skill trees, allowing for a range of playstyles and strategies that keep the gameplay fresh and engaging.

The game’s world is divided into the Seven Realms, such as the Coast of Bones and the Golden Plain, each with its own unique geography, native populations, and legends. For instance, the Vymar Delta is home to the Regent’s Army, known for their distinctive tridents and royal-emblem shields, marking them as formidable opponents in battle.

In the game’s first season, players choose from five characters: The Old Man, The Mammoth, The Huntress, The Noble, and The Exotic. Each character has their own backstory and abilities, providing different gameplay experiences.

As players progress, they can further individualize their characters through skill choices and the equipment they acquire. Combat in Darktimes is more than just melee, a magic system based on elemental forces allows players to incorporate spells into their strategies, adding a new dimension to the battlefield. Each game session begins with the player choosing a league to fight in, ranging from beginner levels to the elite Immortal League. The higher the league, the greater the rewards, but also the stakes. 

NFTs and Blockchain

Darktimes gives players control over their in-game items through the Sui blockchain. This isn’t just about collecting rare gear, it’s about truly owning what you earn in the game. Whether it's a powerful weapon, a unique piece of armor, or a rare cosmetic item, everything you find can be owned, traded, or even lost in battle. The game’s asset system lets you customize and evolve your items, adding depth to your gameplay and keeping things fresh.

The $TIMES token is the game’s currency, making transactions quick and secure. With features like zkLogins, Darktimes ensures that interacting with the blockchain is straightforward, even if you’re not a tech expert. The in-game economy is built to be dynamic, offering plenty of chances to earn, trade, and enhance your collection as you play.

How to Get Started

To join the world of Darktimes, players can pre-register on the official website and stay updated on the latest developments. The game will be free-to-play, with the option to engage in blockchain-based features for those interested in asset ownership and trading. Setting up a Sui-compatible wallet is recommended for players who want to fully experience everything the game has to offer, including trading and staking assets.