The Long Dark Timeline ( Real )

company_founding
2012

Founding of Hinterland Studio

Hinterland Studio, the developer of The Long Dark, was founded to create immersive survival games.

game_announcement
September 2013

Announcement of The Long Dark

Hinterland Studio announced The Long Dark, a survival game set in the Canadian wilderness, emphasizing realism and survival mechanics.

game_release
September 22, 2014

Early Access Release of The Long Dark

The Long Dark was released on Steam Early Access, allowing players to experience and provide feedback during development.

game_release
August 1, 2017

Full Release of The Long Dark

After years in Early Access, The Long Dark was officially released, marking a major milestone for Hinterland Studio and its community.

game_update
November 7, 2017

Release of Story Mode - Episode 1: "Do Not Go Gentle"

The first episode of The Long Dark's Story Mode was released, adding narrative depth to the survival experience.

game_update
July 24, 2018

Release of Story Mode - Episode 2: "Luminance Fugue"

The second episode of Story Mode was launched, continuing the narrative storyline for players.

game_update
April 9, 2019

Release of Story Mode - Episode 3: "Crossroads Elegy"

The third episode of The Long Dark's story was released, further developing the game's narrative arc.

game_update
January 21, 2021

Release of Story Mode - Episode 4: "Fury, Then Silence"

The final episode of the Story Mode was released, concluding the main narrative of The Long Dark.

game_update
2022

Announcement and Beta of Survival Mode Updates

Hinterland Studio announced and began beta testing major updates to Survival Mode, improving gameplay and adding new content.

The Long Dark Timeline ( Fictional )

disaster
Late 21st Century, Title Year 0

Geomagnetic Disaster

A massive geomagnetic storm causes widespread EMP effects, shutting down all electronics and crippling civilization.

survival
Title Year 0, Early Winter

Initial Survival Efforts

Survivors begin to adapt to the new harsh environment, scavenging for supplies and learning to live without modern conveniences.

environment
Title Year 0, Mid-Winter

Emergence of Wildlife Dangers

With humans diminished, wildlife such as wolves and bears become more aggressive and prominent threats.

settlement
Title Year 1, Spring

Founding of Isolated Homesteads

Small groups of survivors establish remote shelters and begin to cultivate sustainable living strategies.

story
Title Year 1, Early Summer

Introduction of Molly's Story

Molly Harper begins her quest to find her husband and forge survival against increasing challenges.

technology
Title Year 2, Winter

Expansion of Survival Technology

Survivors develop new techniques and tools adapted to the prolonged harsh conditions.