After weeks of gameplay teasers, Archetype Entertainment finally debuted its extended showcase of Exodus. The sci-fi RPG has been compared frequently to Mass Effect, and we finally get a closer look with game director Chris King confirming that it’s in the final stretch of development.
The premise revolves around a lowly salvager named Jun Aslan, who can interact with ancient Celestial technology. From lowly salvaging missions, they eventually undertake a quest to find a solution to a virus called the Rot ravaging their homeworld. It’s worth noting that you can customize Jun to be male or female with various options, including face scars.
Throughout your journey, various decisions will let you choose to be a Virtuous Paladin or an Immortal, the latter leaning more towards a Renegade playstyle. Besides Tom and Elise (the woman with the mech), you also encounter Salt, the Awakened octopus, and a researcher named Phaedra. There’s also the mysterious CC Orlowe voiced by Matthew McConaughey, who provides some upgrades.
Combat is equally intriguing, especially because stealth can be used to thin out the herd. Sneakily snipe foes from afar or use the Scramble Cloak to go invisible and execute takedowns. At one point, you can use Jun’s ability to turn off an autocannon and potentially vent the mercenaries in his way. However, that may also mean killing innocents. Paladin or Immortal – it’s your choice, and your companions’ opinions will adjust accordingly.
Of course, the main hook is time dilation. Time passes differently on your home world, and upon returning to Persepolis between missions, you’ll see how your decisions have affected the planet. Another mission involves venturing to a planet after a message from Phaedra’s grandfather, and Ghost Soldiers await to oppose you. Along with using the mysterious gauntlet left by his father to reshape the terrain and create cover, Jun can obtain new abilities, like Lance, which comes in handy against the Ghost Cannon boss.
Exodus is out in early 2027 for Xbox Series X/S, PS5 and PC, and Archetype Entertainment will be sharing much more in the lead-up to launch. Stay tuned in the meantime.
