Into the Abyss: ‘Dark Hours’ Launches Major ‘Cruise Into Madness’ Update as it Prepares for 1.0 Release

The co-op survival horror game Dark Hours has been a thrilling and terrifying journey for players in its Early Access phase. Putting a unique spin on the genre by blending a high-stakes heist with supernatural horror, the game has built a strong community of players who love its unique blend of stealth, cooperation, and panic. While developer Piece of Cake Studios is preparing for a major milestone—the game’s official 1.0 launch—they’ve just dropped a massive, cosmic horror-themed content update that changes the game in a big way. The “Cruise Into Madness” update is out now, bringing a new environment, a new monster, and new gameplay modes that are sure to leave players terrified.

A Deep Dive into the ‘Cruise Into Madness’ Update

The “Cruise Into Madness” update, which was released on August 20, 2025, is far more than a simple patch. It’s a full-fledged expansion that introduces a host of new features that dramatically change the game’s atmosphere and gameplay. The most notable addition is the new environment: a massive, derelict cruise ship. The tight, claustrophobic corridors of the ship are a perfect setting for the game’s jump scares and tense moments, and the level design is a masterclass in atmospheric horror. The ship is a puzzle in itself, and players will have to work together to navigate its labyrinthine halls while being hunted by a new cosmic horror.

The new monster, “The Driftborn,” is a terrifying addition to the game’s bestiary. Unlike the more traditional entities of the past, this monster is inspired by the works of H.P. Lovecraft, with its tentacles and otherworldly nature. It’s a creature that is difficult to fight and even more difficult to escape, and its presence adds a new layer of dread to every heist. The update also adds a new “Nightmare Mode,” which, as the name suggests, is a brutal new difficulty setting that removes all mercy and features multiple monsters hunting you at once. This mode is a test for even the most seasoned horror veterans, and it promises to be one of the most challenging experiences in the game.

The Road to 1.0: A Fall Release and a New PvP Mode

While the “Cruise Into Madness” update is a celebration of the game’s current state, it’s also a clear signal of what’s to come. Piece of Cake Studios has officially announced that Dark Hours will exit Early Access and launch its 1.0 version this fall. This is a major step for the game, as it will mark the end of its Early Access period and the beginning of a new chapter. The 1.0 launch will also introduce a highly anticipated new feature: a PvP mode. This mode, which was revealed in a new trailer, pits two teams of burglars against each other in a race to complete their objectives first while also dealing with the supernatural entities that are hunting them. This new mode will add a competitive edge to the game, allowing players to not only use their wits against the monsters but also against each other.

The journey of Dark Hours has been an exciting one, and the “Cruise Into Madness” update is a fantastic reminder of why so many people have fallen in love with this game. It’s a game that is constantly evolving, with the developers consistently adding new content and features. With the 1.0 launch on the horizon and a new PvP mode to look forward to, the future of Dark Hours is looking very bright. For fans of co-op horror, now is the perfect time to grab a few friends and jump into the terror.