Whitethorn Games and independent developer Brian Wilson have set a release date for their environmental thriller, The Forest Cathedral. In mid-March, PC and Xbox players can experience a story inspired by the real work of scientist Rachel Carson.
Explore the mysterious Science Island in this rich narrative adventure and platforming puzzle blended title. Inspired by the Forest Cathedral found in Cook Forest State Park, players will seek out why there is a surge of dying wildlife.
Taking inspiration by the events surrounding real-world scientist Rachel Carson and her investigation of a harmful insecticide, the game is presented as a dramatic reimagining of her book Silent Spring. Dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethane, more commonly known as DDT, is a pesticide that became infamous for its environmental impacts, particularly with birds.
Players will take on the role of Rachel, who has embarked on a field research mission on the island. While completing weekly tasks, she will realize that something is amiss. The horrific effects of the pesticide are slowly uncovered. Using advanced environmental technology players will complete puzzles, weaving together a complex story of 3D exploration and 2D platforming. Secret wills be discovered and some will try to silence her, but in the end the truth will prevail.
Gameplay takes place in both 3D and 2D worlds. In the 3D world players will control Rachel Carson and the Little Man inside of the 2D world of the advanced environmental scanning tools. A dense forest of trees, animals, fish, and insects, all impacted by DDT use, awaits exploration and is backed by an original soundtrack. A fully voiced narrative aids a player’s investment in the history and attempted silencing of Carson.
The Forest Cathedral has a release date set for March 14, 2023. The game will be released on PC via Steam and Epic Games Store and on the Xbox Series X|S. Players can add the game to their wishlist now on Steam. For additional information visit the game’s product page at whitethorngames.com/the-forest-cathedral.
Whitethorn Games (@WhitethornGames Twitter, @whitethorngames Facebook, YouTube) is an indie game publisher from Erie, Pennsylvania. The publisher focuses on cozy titles that can be played in pieces and are games that anyone can pick up and play. Currently the company’s portfolio contains more than 20 games including their first title Beans: The Coffee Shop Simulator.
Brian Wilson (@BlanketsWilson Twitter, Linkedin) is an independent game developer and environmental artist. Wilson is also the Business Development Lead at Whitethorn Games. Where the Bees Make Honey is Wilson’s first commercial game and The Forest Cathedral is his most recent title.