I love space. I love the idea of getting lost in galaxies that are seemingly endless, while venturing forth to create something new and exciting in spaces yet unexplored. I’m also probably never going to be able to do that in real life, which is why I love the escapism of video games so much. In particular, I’m loving the ideas behind a new space explorer, Astroneer.
A game that I’ve never heard of until today, the Astroneer is already checking all the right boxes for me. Firstly, a unique sense of style with an art direction that blends solid colours with low-poly art to create a welcoming, intriguing space setting. I mean, just look at some of these gorgeous views from in-game shots.
The game itself is a bit of a mix between elements from Minecraft, Grow Home and every science fiction film set in space. The Astroneer takes a stylised approach to things, but it’s got its hooks deeply embedded in “real” space science rather than fantasy. So more Interstellar and The Martian than Star Trek or Star Wars, for example.
You’ll be able to terraform planets, explore new procedurally generated worlds and even bring a buddy along for the ride. Most of which can be seen in the game’s debut trailer below. It pretty much sold me as is.
Astroneer currently doesn’t have a release date, but developers System Era Softworks are planning a Steam Early Access launch early next year. For now the game is only coming to PC, but let’s see what a bit more public interest will do to that.
Last Updated: October 8, 2015
Alien Emperor Trevor
October 8, 2015 at 15:05
That’ll bore the living hell out of me, needs more killing!
Splooshypooh
October 8, 2015 at 15:09
Dont you mean linear objectives following a standard cut/paste storyline?
Alien Emperor Trevor
October 8, 2015 at 15:10
That too, otherwise it’s pointless.
Splooshypooh
October 8, 2015 at 15:10
😛
Imagination can add objectives too. Dont you like minecraft?
VampyreSquirrel
October 8, 2015 at 15:14
You can kill in Minecraft.
Splooshypooh
October 8, 2015 at 15:17
Touche
Commander JJ of the Normandy
October 8, 2015 at 15:50
That’s why we can’t let you have nice things.
Kromas untamed
October 8, 2015 at 15:12
Take on Mars is more sciency to me …. also looks better.
Edit: Space Engineers alternative.
Edit2: Kerbal Space Program too!
Grand Admiral Chief
October 8, 2015 at 15:19
http://41.media.tumblr.com/68639d875d23d3bdc989d0a3fd8ff5ce/tumblr_n14fyzn6yY1r6etobo1_500.png
Grand Admiral Chief
October 8, 2015 at 15:19
http://31.media.tumblr.com/e52f4ae0cd3da9129b594f63bc46f16c/tumblr_n0uqjsAVGc1qf0z59o1_r1_500.gif
Jac7
October 8, 2015 at 15:21
Pretty and all but Is the Star Wars beta available on this side of the world?
Kromas untamed
October 8, 2015 at 15:30
Battlefront? Pre-load started yesterday already. 12gb download.
Jac7
October 8, 2015 at 15:31
I’m a PS4 peasant.
Kromas untamed
October 8, 2015 at 15:33
Well then I have no idea. 😛
Jac7
October 8, 2015 at 15:35
Shot dude 😉
DragonSpirit009
October 8, 2015 at 15:26
I like the music of the trailer!
So sad that I only noticed that
HairyEwok
October 8, 2015 at 15:34
Maaan space must be fun, jumping around like a bunny feeling almost weightless. Every girls dream.
Commander JJ of the Normandy
October 8, 2015 at 15:49
Looks pretty cool