Starting this week on Steam: New tactical FPS with Stalker vibes free to try

Gloomy government experiments, a post-Soviet setting, a heavy atmosphere and tactical firefights all sound very much like S.T.A.L.K.E.R., but this time it’s a different title. Shadow Project is shaping up to be a promising new entry for fans of atmospheric shooters. The game is developed by the small team at SK Studios, who emphasize their commitment to quality over quantity.

In Shadow Project, players assume the role of an American agent sent to investigate disturbing rumors of secret experiments in the collapsing Soviet Union of 1990. A defector has revealed the existence of grotesque labs where humans and animals are transformed into biological war machines as part of the mysterious Shadow Project. The game features open environments, tactical combat with historically accurate gear and a heavy dose of horror.

Shadow Project is set to launch in 2026, and its Steam page is already live with the option to add the game to your wishlist. On August 8, the free demo will go live on Steam for players to try. This preview includes two full levels with about an hour of gameplay, six tracks from the original soundtrack and a story cutscene. You can get an early look at the game in the announcement trailer below.