After almost a decade in the making, the highly anticipated space combat simulator, In The Black (previously known as Starfighter Inc), has finally launched its playable demo. Developed by Impeller Studios, this ambitious title aims to deliver the most realistic interstellar combat experience possible, setting a new standard for the genre. Games like Star Citizen, No Man’s Sky, and Elite Dangerous now face a formidable contender that takes its science very seriously. I’ve had the pleasure of test-flying the Steam Next Fest demo, and while my skills are still developing, I’m already eager to conquer its complexities.
Impeller Studios transitioned from its original name, Starfighter Inc, to In The Black in May 2022, but their core mission has remained unchanged: to provide a truly realistic simulation. The developers are dedicated to ‘getting the science right’ for 23rd-century intergalactic combat, aiming for gameplay that fuses the intense lethality and permanent consequences of Counterstrike with the intricate technical depth and customization found in World of Warships. Their design philosophy centers around spacecraft that could realistically exist, built using known scientific and engineering principles, a commitment evident in the game’s overall feel.
A dynamic gameplay video offers a glimpse into the intense battles and unique flight mechanics that await players in In The Black.
Diving into the In The Black demo, the most immediate and impactful challenge is grappling with realistic momentum. This is a true simulation, meaning your ship will continue its trajectory unless you actively apply thrust to change it. Simply turning your craft won’t alter your path; you’ll merely find yourself soaring sideways through space, which is a stark contrast to more arcade-oriented titles.
Having appreciated the authentic ship controls in Outer Wilds, I felt somewhat prepared, but In The Black elevates that realism significantly. My initial attempts at engaging targets often resulted in me rocketing past them, unable to properly manage my momentum during approach. While I’m slowly improving, I’ve noticed that any intense focus on targeting quickly leads to my maneuvering and overall orientation dissolving into chaos, underscoring the demanding yet immensely satisfying learning curve.
With a development team boasting impressive credits from beloved titles like X-Wing, TIE Fighter, and Crysis, Impeller Studios clearly has the pedigree. They’ve continued to refine the demo throughout Steam Next Fest, introducing new content such as a co-op ‘drone sweep’ mission with varied difficulty levels, and a comprehensive UI tour to assist new pilots in understanding the intricate interface.
An in-game screenshot captures the intense cockpit perspective during a heated space battle, showcasing the detailed UI and explosive action.
The free flight mode now incorporates safety protocols to prevent players from drifting indefinitely into the vast emptiness of space. Projectile accuracy has been refined, and feedback for successful hits is much clearer. Impeller Studios has confirmed its intention to keep the demo permanently available, pledging ongoing updates to integrate community feedback and address any issues as the full game’s development progresses.
The official In The Black demo is currently available as a free download on Steam, with the full game expected to enter Early Access by the end of 2025. If you believe you possess the skills to master realistic space combat and thrive among the stars, this is your prime opportunity to prove it.
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