The Long Dark arrives on Early Access next month

Wintry survival walkabout The Long Dark will be available on Steam Early Access on Sept. 22, developer Hinterland Studio announced today.

The game's "Sandbox mode" will be offered, in which players are promised "dozens of hours of survival simulation" in the Canadian wilderness. To stay alive, the player must take careful note of vital stats, like calories, temperature, fatigue, hunger and thirst. Wildlife also abounds.

"We'll be announcing some exciting new content updates as we get closer to the Early Access launch date," stated the developer. "Players can expect new gameplay systems, new gear, and several new locations to explore, as well as some other fun surprises."