Dead of Darkness is a survival-horror action-adventure game set in 1985 England. Players step into the shoes of private investigator Miles Windham, who arrives at Velvet Island to uncover the truth behind his daughter's mysterious death. The game features a complex, multi-layered narrative with over 15 unique characters, each harboring their own secrets related to the island's dark past. As players delve deeper, they encounter a challenging survival-horror environment where resources are scarce, and danger is omnipresent.

The game also incorporates intense psychological elements, where encounters with enemies affect Miles' mental state, leading to hallucinations that blur reality. With 13 relentless foes to confront, players must strategize their approach—whether to fight, flee, or outsmart their pursuers. The investigative aspect requires players to search their surroundings, inspect items, and gather clues to unlock hidden treasures and secret pathways, enhancing the overall immersive experience.