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The Midnight Walkers News

The Midnight Walkers is Now Available in Early Access

[p]Hello, Survivors around the world.[/p][p][/p][p]The Midnight Walkers has finally launched in Early Access.[/p][p]After approximately 659 working days of development, The Midnight Walkers has at last reached the starting line.[/p][p][/p][p]Today, as the Director, I would like to share the vision that guided the development of The Midnight Walkers, along with my thoughts as we begin Early Access.[/p][p]Oneway Ticket Studio started this project with a clear goal: to create a game that makes players want to survive to the very end, inspired by the tension and meaningful choices inherent to the extraction genre.[/p][p]The development journey was never easy.
Along the way, we faced countless decisions and gradually gained clarity on which experiences truly mattered.
After overcoming many challenges, we believe The Midnight Walkers now stands at its true beginning.[/p][p][/p][p]And now, we would like to validate and expand this direction together with you, the players.[/p][p]Early Access for The Midnight Walkers is not about rapidly expanding content alone.
Our primary focus is to carefully refine the core gameplay loop and the density of the overall experience.[/p][p]We have built a variety of gameplay data analysis systems to better understand the overall player experience.[/p][p]By monitoring real-time data based on player choices and actions, we will continuously refine combat and economic balance, responding quickly when adjustments are needed.[/p][p][/p][p]In addition, due to the nature of the extraction genre, we believe that a stable matchmaking environment directly translates into the quality of the gameplay experience.[/p][p]Rather than aggressively expanding and fragmenting the player pool from the outset,[/p][p][/p][p]Development will not stop after Early Access. In fact, it will continue at an even faster and more intense pace.[/p][p]Starting immediately after launch, we plan to introduce a variety of changes and additions through updates to ensure that gameplay remains engaging,[/p][p]Approximately three months later, we are preparing a major update that will expand The Midnight Walkers into its next phase.[/p][p][/p][p]Above all, the most important value we have held since the early stages of development is delivering a unique experience that only The Midnight Walkers can provide.[/p][p]We are also working quickly to complete key elements that have not yet been fully revealed, with the goal of making The Midnight Walkers a memorable zombie extraction game.[/p][p]Moving forward, we will continue to communicate transparently with you, just as we have done so far.[/p][p]To that end, we have created a development roadmap through Q2 2026 in a format that is easy for anyone to review.[/p][p]We will also openly share not only our progress, but the challenges and considerations we face along the way.[/p][p]Development Roadmap: https://tmw-roadmap.notion.site/[/p][p][/p][p]We believe that Early Access is not a point of completion, but rather the starting point for building a better game together.[/p][p]We sincerely thank everyone who has been waiting for The Midnight Walkers,[/p][p]and we hope you will continue this journey with us.[/p][p][/p][p]Thank you.[/p][p]Sincerely[/p][p]- Director Ray[/p]

DevLog #27 | Boss

[p]Hello, survivors!
Welcome back with a brand-new Dev Log.[/p][p][/p][p]Over the past weeks, many survivors have shared their thoughts and expectations regarding boss content.
In this Dev Log, we’d like to talk about the boss content currently in development, shaped directly by your feedback.[/p][previewyoutube][/previewyoutube][p]Toward the end of the Early Access trailer, a mysterious presence briefly appears—one that has not yet been revealed until now.
Today, we’d like to introduce the direction the development team has in mind for the boss featured in that scene.[/p][p][/p][h3]Direction of the Boss Content[/h3][p]Boss content in The Midnight Walkers is being designed to expand the overall gameplay experience.
Rather than focusing solely on fighting a powerful enemy, our goal is to deliver a high-risk, high-reward challenge—one that players choose to pursue with a clear objective in mind.[/p][p]Boss encounters are not intended to be simple combat events.
They are designed as content where the purpose of the challenge—what you are risking yourself for—is clearly understood and felt.[/p][p]During the upcoming Early Access phase, our primary focus will be on refining the core gameplay loop, overall polish, and game stability.
For this reason, boss content will not be included at the start of Early Access.[/p][p]That said, boss encounters are considered one of the key pillars for expanding long-term gameplay.
Development and planning are actively ongoing, with the goal of introducing boss content through updates not too long after Early Access begins.[/p][p][/p][h3]The Boss, “Big Guy”[/h3][p]The boss shown in the trailer is named “Big Guy.”[/p][p]Conceived as an experimental subject created for Mr. Nobody’s show, Big Guy is designed with a concept that leaves a strong impression through its appearance alone.[/p][p][/p][p]“Big Guy” is not simply a large enemy, but a close-range-focused boss that uses an abnormally developed right arm. We are designing it to be a highly oppressive presence, featuring a phase-based structure where its behavior changes depending on the flow of combat.[/p][p]Currently, the team is actively developing Big Guy’s combat style and detailed mechanics.
He is planned to become the first boss to hold a symbolic role within the world of The Midnight Walkers.[/p][p][/p][h3]Reward Design and the “Masterpiece” Equipment Tier[/h3][p]Planning for the reward structure of boss content is also progressing alongside development. Our goal is to offer rewards that are worthy of the clear challenge represented by “boss hunts,” and we are preparing a new tier of equipment above the current highest Legendary tier: the “Masterpiece” equipment tier.[/p][p][/p][p]Masterpiece gear features unique abilities exclusive to its tier.
Rather than simply offering higher stats, these items are designed to serve as meaningful rewards—proof of having overcome the challenge of a boss encounter.[/p][p]Details regarding acquisition methods and conditions are still being refined through ongoing level design.
These elements will continue to be adjusted with careful consideration of overall game balance and flow.[/p][p][/p][h3]Closing Thoughts[/h3][p]In this Dev Log, we’ve shared our current vision for boss content in The Midnight Walkers.
As this is one of the most anticipated features among survivors, the development team is taking great care to ensure it meaningfully expands the gameplay experience.[/p][p]Do you have ideas or feedback regarding boss content?
We’d love to hear from you on the official The Midnight Walkers Discord channel. Your thoughts are always welcome.[/p][p]That’s all for today’s Dev Log.[/p][p]
We’ll be back soon with more exciting updates.[/p][p]Until then—stay alive, and we’ll see you out there.[/p]

Early Access Global Release Schedule & Exclusive DLC Information

[p]Hello, Survivors.[/p][p][/p][p]The Midnight Walkers is coming to Steam in Early Access.[/p][p]We sincerely thank everyone who has been waiting for The Midnight Walkers and for all the interest and support you’ve shown.[/p][p]This Early Access is the beginning of a journey that you will share with The Midnight Walkers.[/p][p][/p][h2]Early Access Global Release Schedule[/h2][p][/p][p]The Midnight Walkers will launch in Early Access on January 28, 2026 at 6:00 PM (PT) / 9:00 PM (ET) / January 29, 2026 at 02:00 (GMT).[/p][p]Early Access is a version that allows players to experience an in-development build ahead of the full release.[/p][p][/p][p]In Early Access, you’ll experience the core gameplay set in the Liberty Grand Center, along with the foundation for future content expansions.[/p][p][/p][p]During Early Access, the development team will continue to refine balance, improve systems, and add new content based on your gameplay data and feedback.[/p][p]We will continue to update and improve systems and content based on your real play experiences and valuable opinions.[/p][p][/p][h2]Early Access Supporter Pack (DLC)[/h2][p]We’ve prepared an exclusive Early Access Supporter Pack for Survivors who want to support the early development of The Midnight Walkers. Your support through this package will help us refine and complete the game during Early Access.[/p][p][/p]
  • [p]2 Limited Skins (Retro Boy Pod Tracker Skin + Spotlight Flashlight Skin)[/p]
  • [p]1 Additional Storage[/p]
    • [p]Adds +1 personal storage to each character. Storage can also be expanded through crafting.[/p]
  • [p]DLC Global Price: $15
    (The package will be sold at regionally adjusted prices in accordance with Steam’s recommended pricing policy.)[/p]
[p][/p][h2]The Road Ahead[/h2][p]The development team is currently conducting final checks in preparation for the Early Access launch.[/p][p]Even after Early Access begins, we will continue to share development updates and progress through dev logs and the community.[/p][p][/p][p]Starting with Early Access, The Midnight Walkers aims to grow into a game developed and completed together with Survivors.[/p][p]With your gameplay, feedback, and support guiding us, we’ll keep working hard to deliver the best version of the game.[/p][p]We’ll see you soon at the Liberty Grand Center.[/p][p]
Thank you.[/p]

The Midnight Walkers reached 300,000 wishlists!

[p]Hello, Survivors![/p][p][/p][p]We’re excited to share the news that The Midnight Walkers has reached 300,000 Steam wishlists![/p][p]We sincerely thank everyone who supports The Midnight Walkers, and we’ll do our very best to repay your expectations with an even better game.[/p][p]We kindly ask for your continued interest and support moving forward![/p][p][/p][p]Thank you.[/p][p][/p][p]Oneway Ticket Studio Development Team[/p][p][/p][p][/p]

New Year Greetings 2026 & Devlog #26 | POI

[p]Hello, Survivors.[/p][p]
We’re back with a brand-new development log.[/p][p]As we welcome the New Year 2026, we want to thank survivors around the world for your patience and support for The Midnight Walkers. It means a lot to the whole team.[/p][p]We’re gearing up for Steam Early Access on January 29, 2026 (PST: January 28, 2026), and everyone on the dev team is focused on delivering a more polished, immersive survival experience.[/p][p]In this update — along with our New Year’s greeting — we’re introducing a set of POIs that will make the Liberty Grand Center feel more dynamic and tactical.[/p][p][/p][h3]Director Ray’s New Year Message & Devlog Video[/h3][p]This POI-focused devlog comes with a short video. Director Ray shares his New Year’s greeting and explains the gameplay intent behind the POIs — what choices and moments we expect them to create.[/p][p][/p][previewyoutube][/previewyoutube][hr][/hr][h3]What is a POI?[/h3][p]POI stands for Point of Interest. In the Liberty Grand Center, POIs are specially designed locations that reinforce the building’s identity and deepen gameplay. They’re not just “places with good loot.” Each POI is meant to create meaningful risk-vs-reward choices, shape looting routes, and influence moment-to-moment decisions.[/p][p][/p][p](Note: These features are still in development and some details may change.)[/p][p][/p][h3]Secret Room[/h3][p]The Secret Room is meant to reward exploration. At first glance it looks like a hidden space you might discover by chance, but stepping inside triggers a small event. Unique mechanics play out here: various threats will emerge, and survivors must eliminate them to leave safely.[/p][p][/p][h3]Zombie Container[/h3][p]Dangerous zombies lurk inside the Zombie Container. As a survivor approaches, the container door opens automatically. In return for the risk, the container holds a loot crate filled with worthwhile rewards. Will you risk it for the payoff, or walk away? The choice is yours.[/p][p][/p][h3]Central Stairwell Barricade[/h3][p]The Central Stairwell Barricade changes how major routes feel and flow. By dividing space, it can stall enemy advances or help you shake off pursuers during an escape. It’s a structural element that enables multiple strategic decisions.[/p][p][/p][h3]Fire Extinguisher[/h3][p]Fire extinguishers that used to be static props are now destructible environmental objects. When destroyed, a unit flashes and creates a smoke cloud that can block enemy vision or shift the flow of combat. The smoke affects zombies as well, allowing survivors to break pursuit without long chases. This smoke shares the same properties as Crow’s smoke grenade, so the same passive effects apply.[/p][hr][/hr][h3]Closing Thoughts[/h3][p]The POIs we’ve shown today are the first step toward making the Liberty Grand Center a more layered and unpredictable battlefield. We’ll keep adding a variety of POIs so survivors find new choices and strategies in every match.[/p][p][/p][p]Thank you to everyone who played The Midnight Walkers and shared feedback throughout 2025. [/p][p]Happy New Year, and we’ll see you on Steam Early Access on January 29, 2026 (PST: January 28, 2026).[/p][p][/p][p]Thank you.[/p]