6 Essential Tips for Thriving in the Dark, Fantastical World of South of Midnight

Set against the evocative backdrop of the American South, “South of Midnight” opens its doors to players on April 8. But if you can’t wait, dive in now with the Premium Edition. This intriguing game is making waves on Xbox Series X|S, Xbox app for Windows PC, Steam, and cloud, with its arrival coinciding with Game Pass. Thanks to Xbox Play Anywhere, your adventure can seamlessly follow you across Xbox consoles, PC, and cloud with complete cross-entitlements and cross-saves. To mark the game’s launch, we’ve compiled six essential tips to aid you in exploration and combat.

Step into the bewitching universe of “South of Midnight,” a realm inspired by the dark, captivating tales from the American South. Although it may look like a whimsical fairytale, the narratives it unfolds and the trials it presents are anything but simple.

In this journey, you’ll follow Hazel, a protagonist endowed with the mystical power of Weaving after her mother is taken away by a supernatural deluge. Traverse this twisted version of the South on a quest to find her mother and unravel the mysteries surrounding these supernatural events. The path is fraught with battles against Haints—corrupted beings born from deep-seated sorrow—and opportunities to heal mythical creatures inspired by actual folk legends, revitalized by the creative minds at Compulsion Games.

For those who have the Premium Edition, the adventure begins today, ahead of the April 8 launch for everyone else. In celebration, we’ve curated these helpful pointers to navigate the enigmatic journey:

### Explore Thoroughly

In “South of Midnight,” finding your way could seem as straightforward as following your Guiding Strand—magical threads leading you to your next challenge. But don’t be fooled; there’s much more hidden beneath the surface. Engage in platforming, spellcasting, and combat in out-of-the-way areas, each promising unique encounters and secrets. Rewards such as Floofs, the game’s currency for upgrades, await the keen explorer. Dedicate some time to uncover these treasures and enhance your abilities more efficiently than merely rushing from point A to point B.

While exploring, keep an eye out for Life Filaments. Found in the most secluded spots within chapters, collecting three of these grants you a permanent health boost.

### Dive Deeper into the Stories

At the heart of “South of Midnight” are its stories, ranging from Hazel’s personal quest to the poignant pasts of the mythical beings she encounters. To truly engross yourself, hunt for notes and items scattered across each chapter. These treasures deepen your understanding, revealing unexpected insights into the characters and their motives. It’s a profound way to enrich your narrative experience.

### Prioritize Upgrades

Staying ahead in the game means focusing on upgrades early and often. “South of Midnight” offers a hearty challenge, even at standard difficulty, where basic Haints can deplete significant health with one blow, let alone formidable mythical foes. Upgrades mostly bring new perks instead of merely enhancing existing skills. From regaining health by Unraveling enemies to learning double-dodges for evading multiple threats, these improvements make a world of difference. Tailor your skill tree upgrades to meet your strategic needs.

### Use Dodges Offensively and Defensively

While Hazel lacks a blocking mechanism, her dodge ability more than compensates. A well-timed dodge offers invincibility and delivers an energy blast that staggers foes nearby. Observe attack patterns and timing to maximize damage, even when evading instead of striking.

### Interrupt with Spells

Hazel’s dodge is handy, but sometimes preventing an attack altogether is the wiser move. Utilize spells like Pull, Push, or Weave to halt Haints in their tracks. Rather than using spells the moment they recharge, save one for those critical instances as an interrupt.

### Master Spell Combination

Locking down enemies becomes second nature with spell combinations, especially once you’ve unlocked a few upgrades. Pull an enemy for a Weave enchantment, and once freed, stun them again. Finish off with a Push and charged ranged attack for efficiency. As you progress, felling foes with a spell combo is quick and immensely gratifying.

“South of Midnight” debuts on April 8, 2025, accessible via Xbox Series X|S, the Xbox App for Windows, Steam, and the cloud, launching straight into Game Pass. The adventure is ready when you are, especially for those stepping in early via the Premium Edition, which offers additional digital perks.

### Immerse in the Dark Fantasy

Step into this enchanting third-person action adventure from Contrast and We Happy Few creators. As Hazel, delve into the folklore of the American Deep South. When her town falls victim to disaster, becoming a Weaver transforms Hazel into a bridge between the mortal and mystical realms. Her journey is not just about saving her mother but uncovering her own place in this beautifully eerie world.

Transported into a Gothic landscape by a hurricane, Hazel’s quest threads through a modern folktale that weighs history against personal identity. Confront mythical creatures, harness ancient powers, and restore balance to a world teetering on the edge of oblivion.

The Premium Edition adds layers of depth. Set against hauntingly beautiful visuals, compelling storytelling, and a soundtrack inspired by the rich Southern tapestry, “South of Midnight” invites you to experience a world where past, present, and myth blend seamlessly.