Back to the Dawn

Metal Head Games and Spiral Up Games have launched Back to the Dawn out of Early Access today, bringing the critically acclaimed prison survival RPG to Steam’s full release alongside its console debut on Xbox Series X|S. The 1.0 update introduces the Black Panther Arc, a complete second storyline that doubles the game’s content and provides players with dramatically different approaches to survival within Boulderton Prison’s corrupt walls.

Two Sides of the Same Coin

Back to the Dawn now offers players a choice between two equally substantial storylines, each providing distinct perspectives on prison life and survival. Thomas the Fox remains the original protagonist, an investigative journalist framed for exposing political corruption who must uncover the truth whilst planning his escape. His journey focuses on proving innocence through investigation and careful evidence gathering.

The newly introduced Bob the Panther presents a morally complex alternative. As an undercover police officer forced to live among the criminals he once pursued, Bob must maintain his cover whilst investigating a conspiracy that threatens the entire prison system. His storyline explores themes of identity and survival when the line between law enforcement and criminality becomes dangerously blurred.

Expanded Prison Environment

The Black Panther Arc brings new areas, characters, and decision trees that expand on the game’s central themes of trust and survival. Where Thomas operates with clear moral objectives, Bob navigates a world of shifting alliances and necessary compromises, creating different gameplay dynamics and ethical choices.

Both storylines emphasise the game’s immersive sim elements, combining stealth, strategy, and social survival mechanics. Every inmate within Boulderton Prison carries their own history and motivations, creating a reactive environment where player decisions have meaningful consequences on relationships and story progression.

Critical Acclaim and Technical Polish

With a 92% positive rating on Steam during Early Access, Back to the Dawn has earned recognition for its detailed world-building, reactive storytelling, and distinctive tone that balances tension with moments of dark humour. The 1.0 release includes numerous quality-of-life improvements, new quests, hidden locations, and expanded systems, all optimised for gamepad play to support the console launch.

The pixel-art presentation allows for rich environmental detail whilst maintaining performance across platforms. The game’s approach to narrative complexity within the prison setting has clearly resonated with players seeking more thoughtful takes on the escape genre.

Launch Availability

Back to the Dawn is available now for £19.99 with a 15% launch discount during its first two weeks. The simultaneous Steam and Xbox Series X|S release ensures that both PC and console players can experience the complete package from day one.

For players interested in immersive sims with strong narrative components, Back to the Dawn offers a unique take on prison survival that prioritises character development and moral complexity over simple action mechanics.