Dark Math Games has announced an exciting collaboration with GRAMMY-nominated producer John Cunningham, who will take the helm of the music and sound design for the studio’s upcoming isometric sci-fi detective RPG, XXX NIGHTSHIFT. Known for his work with global stars like Miley Cyrus, Kanye West, and the late XXXTentacion, Cunningham is set to redefine game audio, making music an integral part of the storytelling experience rather than just an atmospheric backdrop.
This partnership marks a bold creative leap for Dark Math Games, a London-based studio founded in 2023 by industry veterans behind the critically acclaimed Disco Elysium. With XXX NIGHTSHIFT, the studio seeks to transcend conventional soundscapes by weaving music directly into the gameplay, enriching the narrative depth and amplifying immersion for a more captivating gaming experience. Cunningham’s knack for blending artistic innovation with mainstream appeal makes him the ideal collaborator for the project to help bring this vision to life.
“XXX NIGHTSHIFT is an ambitious project, and John’s innovative approach matches our energy perfectly,” said Timo Albert, founder and Art Director of Dark Math Games, who couldn’t hide his excitement about bringing Cunningham on board. “He knows how to get the best out of every artist, and we’re thrilled to have him as a hands-on collaborator with the development team. He’s taking the lead on sound and music with his signature style—players are in for something unforgettable.”
Cunningham, equally enthusiastic about the partnership, shared his vision: “I’m super curious and excited to be a part of XXX NIGHTSHIFT, where the world has evolved so much, and our understanding of music and personalization has evolved alongside it. How is music created, listened to, shared, and loved in this world? And most importantly, how can I impart the feeling upon the player that we are all artists in our own right?”
Set in 2086, XXX NIGHTSHIFT thrusts players in the role of Patrol Op Dinorah Katz, stranded at a luxury ski resort in Antarctica—an eerie, isolated location in the perpetual polar night. The game combines a sci-fi mystery with rich RPG mechanics, featuring layered storytelling, dynamic companion interactions, and player-driven choices that impact the unfolding narrative, ensuring a fresh experience with each playthrough.
Pre-orders for XXX NIGHTSHIFT are now live through Xsolla on the official game website, launched on March 8—strategically timed to coincide with International Women’s Day, as the game proudly features two strong female protagonists at the forefront of its sci-fi narrative. Early buyers will also receive an exclusive 34-page digital comic offering a deeper dive into the game’s mysterious, snow-blanketed world, complemented by stunning artwork.
This collaboration signals a significant milestone for Dark Math Games, combining Cunningham’s cutting-edge sound design with the studio’s unique storytelling approach. With its innovative fusion of music and narrative-driven gameplay, XXX NIGHTSHIFT is poised to make a lasting impact—and could very well become one of the year’s most anticipated releases.
Words by Khushboo Malhotra
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