Erie, Pennsylvania (February 28, 2023) – Today, Whitethorn Games – publisher of inclusive, accessible, low-stress games including Lake, Calico, and Wytchwood – and developer Brian Wilson, are pleased to announce a March 14, 2023 release date for their upcoming environmental thriller The Forest Cathedral. Available first on Xbox and PC, the game blends a rich narrative adventure with platforming puzzles. Players are invited to explore the mysterious Science Island, inspired by the majesty of the Forest Cathedral found in Cook Forest State Park, as they seek out the reasons behind the surge of dying wildlife.
Inspired by the events surrounding real-life scientist Rachel Carson’s investigation of the harmful pesticide known as DDT, The Forest Cathedral is a dramatic reimagining of Carson’s environmental science book Silent Spring. Players will take on the role of Rachel, who has embarked on a field research biologist position on the island. While completing her weekly tasks, she quickly realizes things aren’t as they seem. Players will slowly uncover the horrific effects of the pesticide using advanced environmental technology to complete puzzles that weave together 3D exploration and 2D platforming. What secrets will Rachel discover on this island? Many will try to silence her, but somehow, the truth must come out.
Key features of The Forest Cathedral include:
- Hey, Little Man: Switch control between Rachel Carson in the 3D world and the Little Man inside the 2D world of her advanced environmental scanning tools in order to solve puzzles and platforming challenges.
- Nature in Peril: Explore a meticulously crafted forested island, dense with trees, animals, fish, and insects, all impacted by the dangerous effects of DDT.
- The Sound of the Silence: The game features a fully voiced narrative to invest players in the harrowing history of the attempted silencing of Rachel Carson, backed by an enchanting original soundtrack.
The Forest Cathedral will release first on Xbox Series X|S and PC via Steam on March 14, 2023.
