End of Abyss Developers Detail Crafting an Industrial World Ripe for Exploration

The eerie, industrial depths of End of Abyss are taking shape, and developer Section 9 Interactive, with publisher Epic Games, has pulled back the curtain a bit further. A new behind-the-scenes trailer dives into the nitty-gritty of world-building and level design, revealing how the team is striving to make exploration not just a means to an end, but a core, compelling part of the experience. This upcoming action-adventure title, set to launch on October 1, 2026, promises an atmospheric horror journey where every nook and cranny might hold a secret.

Level designer Robin Jansson articulated the delicate balance the team is trying to strike. "As the designer, I want the world to make sense. But I also want you to explore – we want you to explore. So, there’s a bit of a fine line there you have to tread to make it fantastical while still understandable," Jansson explained. This philosophy directly influences the game's environmental layout, particularly in the ways secrets are embedded. "So, nooks and crannies are great for me as a designer because that’s where I hide the secrets. So, I design a lot of those, I would say. I think it’s quite important for the genre. In a Metroidvania, you want a lot of hidden nooks, hidden stuff."

Crafting an Industrial Labyrinth

The world of End of Abyss is predominantly man-made, a stark industrial landscape featuring metal, concrete, and machinery. Yet, the developers are working to imbue these sterile environments with a sense of organic decay and intrigue. Even areas resembling sewers are being given a touch of life through thoughtful wear-and-tear. "Basically, everything is man-made in there, I would say. It’s a very industrial sort of environment. There’s a lot of metal and concrete, machinery and pipes, all sorts of things that you would expect in a factory-like environment," Jansson noted. The key to achieving this organic feel, even within artificial structures, lies in subtle details. "Having holes in it or broken railings is going to feel a lot more organic."

Rewarding the Curious Explorer

This focus on exploration and hidden secrets is a cornerstone of the End of Abyss experience, particularly for fans of the Metroidvania genre. The game aims to reward players not just through combat prowess, but through diligent investigation and careful play. Progression is tied to upgraded gear and new equipment, encouraging players to delve into every corner of the map. This approach ensures that the journey through the game's unsettling environments is as engaging as the narrative itself, fostering a sense of discovery that keeps players invested. The deliberate design choices in level architecture underscore the game's commitment to making the world itself a central character and a constant source of intrigue.

What's Next

With the launch date of October 1, 2026, drawing closer, End of Abyss is set to release on PC via the Epic Games Store, PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series X|S. Pre-orders are currently available, and Section 9 Interactive has indicated that their behind-the-scenes series will continue weekly until the game's release.