In The Black FAQ
In The Black FAQ — Everything You Want to Know
Solo play, VR, HOTAS, refunds, system specs, EA length and the Starfighter Inc. history.
Is In The Black multiplayer only?+
No. In The Black has Contract single-player PvE missions and a Simulator sandbox. BloodSport is the 5v5 PvP mode, but you can play the game without ever touching it.
Does In The Black have a single-player campaign?+
Not a story campaign — Contract mode is mission-based PvE with 8 contract types (Debris Sweep, Drone Sweep, Interdiction, Raid, Recon, Search & Destroy, Ship Strike, Station Defense). Impeller has hinted at narrative additions during Early Access.
Is In The Black free to play?+
No. In The Black is a one-time purchase at $28.95 on Steam.
How long is In The Black Early Access?+
Impeller Studios has stated EA is expected to run at least 12 months from the May 5, 2026 launch.
Does In The Black have HOTAS support?+
Yes. Full HOTAS support including Thrustmaster T.16000M, Logitech X52, and VKB Gladiator. See our Controls guide for tested keybinds.
Does In The Black support VR?+
Not at EA launch. The developer has not committed to VR, but a community-requested feature poll has VR ranked second behind a story campaign.
Does In The Black work on Steam Deck?+
Yes. Verified Steam Deck support, with a community controller layout shipped at EA launch.
Is In The Black hard to learn?+
Yes — it is one of the most demanding flight models in any space sim. Expect 3–5 hours before BloodSport feels playable. Start with the Beginner Guide.
Does In The Black use real physics?+
Yes. The flight model is true Newtonian with optional flight-assist toggle. There is no top speed; only Δv (delta-v) limits.
In The Black vs Starfighter Inc — what happened?+
Starfighter Inc. was the 2015 Kickstarter title from Impeller Studios. After multiple development cycles the team rebranded and relaunched it as In The Black in May 2026. Backers received Steam keys.
How many ships are in In The Black?+
5 base hulls (Shrike, Kolibri, Reus, Hyperion, Pegasus) with 17 total variants at EA launch.
Does In The Black require an internet connection?+
PvP and Contract require online; Simulator is offline. There is no LAN mode at launch.
Can I refund In The Black?+
Yes, through standard Steam refund policy — under 2 hours played, within 14 days of purchase.