Hey everyone!
Midnight Files: The Noir Cut is now available.
This is a major refresh of the game, focused on atmosphere, investigations, case flow, camera tools, and overall quality of life. A lot has changed in this version, and the goal was simple: make Midnight Files clearer, darker, and more satisfying to investigate.
Because many case systems and investigation files have changed, I recommend starting a new game after updating for the best experience.
A New Noir Mode
The biggest visual addition is the new Noir Mode.
You can now investigate Midnight City in a black-and-white visual style inspired by classic detective stories and film noir. It changes the look and mood of the game quite strongly, especially during crime scene investigation and office analysis.
Noir Mode can be enabled or disabled in the settings, so you can choose whether you want to play with the new look or keep the original visual style.
Better Investigations and Case Flow
The investigation structure has been improved.
The old system where you had to predict the location of the next crime has been removed. The focus is now fully on solving the current case, reviewing evidence, checking information in the police database, and identifying the person responsible.
You can now return to crime scenes after leaving them. If something does not add up, or if you think you missed a clue, you can go back and check the location again.
The first and third cases have been redesigned from the ground up. The second and fourth cases have also been improved and adjusted.
Improved Camera and Notebook Tools
The camera system has been improved to make evidence photography clearer.
The camera now shows better feedback when an important object is framed correctly. This should make it easier to understand when a photo will be saved with a detailed note.
You can also review taken photos directly in the notebook, even while still at the crime scene. This makes it easier to compare details and check your evidence without waiting until you return to the office.
The camera has also been adjusted so photos should no longer appear overexposed.
Controls, Audio, Database, and Other Improvements
This version also includes:
Key binding support
In-game music
Music volume setting
Several sound-related fixes
Removed repeated hint entries from the menu
Fixed database files appearing before the correct case date
Removed the difficulty system and investigation timer
Improved localization and case text
Updated tutorials and gameplay descriptions
Improved office and crime-scene flow
Updated newspapers and case-related texts
Cleaner hints and interaction prompts
Save File Notice
Because many investigation systems, case files, evidence structures, and database entries have changed, older saves may not work correctly or may contain outdated progress.
For the best experience, I recommend starting a new game after updating.
One More Note
As part of this version, AI-generated visual and audio assets have been removed or replaced.
Thank you for playing Midnight Files and for all the feedback. A lot of these changes were made because of things players pointed out after release, and I hope The Noir Cut makes the game feel much better to investigate.
Thanks for your support, and see you in Midnight City!
Paweł / Paper Lynx Games