On August 16, 2026, Sony and publisher Serafini Productions unveiled the debut trailer for the psychological thriller Time To Wake Up. The game will be released on PC, PS5, and Xbox Series X/S in Q3 2026, rather than exclusively on PS5. A free demo is already available on Steam.
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About the story: A dark school routine
Developed by Belgian indie studio Eye Blink Twice, and published by Serafini Productions, the plot revolves around the protagonist, who hears a mysterious voice demanding “eyes.” The character finds themselves trapped in a dream of their own, composed of disturbing school memories. The creators challenge us to confront the shadows of the past and seek a way to reconcile with our inner child, navigating eerie corridors.
Platforms and Release: Dissecting the Exclusivity Confusion
Confusion has arisen regarding the list of target platforms: some industry sources mistakenly labeled the title a “PS5 exclusive.” This is a clear example of how a demonstration at Sony’s showcase is being confused with actual contractual obligations.
Developers Eye Blink Twice have confirmed a multiplatform release:
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PC (Steam)
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PlayStation 5
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Xbox Series X/S
The exact release date is still being kept under wraps, but the developers confidently state a release window of Q3 2026.
Blink Mechanics and DualSense Potential
The developers offer an unusual gameplay reversal: they recommend literally “blinking to refresh your memory.” In the game itself, this action changes the environment, reveals hidden passages, and transforms spatial puzzles.
While the developers haven’t yet described how it works with the Sony controller, this mechanic is absolutely begging for DualSense integration. The haptic feedback when closing your eyes and the adaptive trigger resistance during moments of escalating tension can really ramp up the atmosphere.
Where can I download the demo right now?
You can already test it out on PC. A free demo has been released on Steam, offering:
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About 30 minutes of gameplay.
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A walkthrough of the introductory level.
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An introduction to the basic mechanics.
Important: your progress will not carry over. All saves from the demo will remain within it and will not carry over to the final release.
What’s still unknown about the game?
Publisher Serafini Productions is keeping a low profile. Here’s a list of the details the developers are keeping quiet about:
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The exact release date and month in Q3 2026.
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The final price (including regional pricing).
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The availability of disc editions for consoles.
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The availability of a special patch with enhancements for the PS5 Pro.
Verdict: Is the project worth keeping an eye on?
This new thriller shows signs of life in the intimate horror genre. The vision manipulation mechanics are intriguing, and the intimate setting creates a rich atmosphere. If you’ve been missing dark psychological stories, it’s best to simply play the free demo on Steam and experience the premise for yourself.
