The review of “Osiris Reborn” praises the game for its faithful adaptation of the Expanse universe, combining tactical cover-based combat with meaningful player choices and immersive storytelling set shortly after the fall of Aeros. While the beta focuses more on combat than character development, the game shows strong potential with detailed environments, faction distinctions, and planned expansions in customization and narrative depth ahead of its multi-platform release next year.
The video is a review of the limited beta of “Osiris Reborn,” an upcoming Expanse-themed cover-based action RPG developed by Alcat Games. The reviewer, a fan of the Expanse books and show, praises the game for its faithful representation of the source material, noting attention to detail in environments and story consequences that feel true to the Expanse universe. Unlike a spaceflight simulator or open-world sandbox, the game focuses on tactical combat and character-driven storytelling, blending elements reminiscent of Mass Effect with high-quality visuals akin to Star Citizen.
Set shortly after the fall of Aeros, the story centers on a new crew of mercenaries working for Pinkwater Station. Players choose between two twins, starting as either an Earther or a Belter, with options to specialize in officer training or hacking. Although the beta’s character customization and faction choices are limited, the developers plan to add more options, including a Martian start and full customization of appearance and gender. The physical distinctions between factions, such as the taller, elongated Belters versus shorter Earthers, reflect the social dynamics from the books and show, enhancing immersion.
The game features a mix of linear and branching paths within its locations. While the initial station hub offers social interactions and side missions that impact the story, the overall progression feels somewhat linear with intersecting hubs. However, player choices have meaningful consequences, as demonstrated in a pivotal encounter with the station warden Okonnell, where dialogue options can lead to drastically different outcomes, including the potential destruction of the station and the fate of its inhabitants. This suggests a narrative that values player agency and replayability.
Combat combines cover-based shooting with tactical commands, allowing players to direct their twin to flank or support during fights, including a slow-motion mode for strategic planning. The game excels in atmospheric details, especially during EVA combat, where sound design mimics the muted, indirect nature of space combat. Players can specialize in different skill trees, with hacking offering unique abilities like disrupting enemies and deploying drones. The progression system enables weapon modification and crafting, encouraging players to adapt their strategies, though the beta limits skill point availability, making it hard to fully gauge specialization impact.
Overall, the reviewer finds “Osiris Reborn” promising but notes the beta leans heavily on combat over story development, which might limit emotional connection to characters. The game is scheduled for release next year on multiple platforms, with various founder packs available for early access, including a collector’s edition with physical extras. The beta is currently accessible only to those who purchase higher-tier editions. The reviewer expresses enthusiasm for the project and looks forward to seeing how the game evolves, appreciating its potential to deliver a compelling Expanse experience.