Much like the massive resurgence of survival horror driven by classic titles, science fiction games are also reaching new heights, with a slew of fantastic sci-fi games recently released or coming soon.
Here are five of the most interesting science-fiction games that have just come out or are set to release in the next few years. Note: this list is entirely subjective.
The Alters Is One of 11 bit Studios’ Best
Lately, games like The Alters from 11 bit Studios (Frostpunk, This War of Mine) have been hitting the right audience with a unique blend of management simulation and layered sci-fi storytelling. The game dives deep into themes of consciousness, individuality, and quantum mechanics.
You play as the sole survivor of a mining mission, stranded on a hostile planet with a triple-star system. To survive, you must clone multiple versions of yourself to create a working team. Each clone has followed a different life path, and while you all share the same name, every "Alter" has a unique personality and identity.
READ: The Alters: Why This Survival Sim is My Unexpected Game of the Year Contender
It’s hard concept sci-fi at its best, with consistently thought-provoking writing across three massive acts.
It’s also become my unexpected Game of the Year contender. Going in blind, without watching previews or reading reviews, was the best decision I made. The game’s bizarre and beautiful premise hit all the right notes.
Death Stranding 2 Is Just as Wild as the First
And just like that, Hideo Kojima’s sequel to Death Stranding is right around the corner. Unsurprisingly, it’s not holding back on Kojima’s signature brand of madness. He’s even channeling his love for Metal Gear, throwing in kaiju battles and a character that looks suspiciously like Solid Snake.
No one really knows where the story is headed, and that’s kind of the point. Kojima’s mind is a mystery, and this sequel looks to expand even further on themes like post-apocalyptic politics and human connection, wrapped in the shell of what people still jokingly call a “walking simulator.”
READ: Should You Play Death Stranding 1 Before Death Stranding 2?
PRAGMATA Finally Returns from the Dead
Back from the dead, PRAGMATA has finally emerged from development limbo after being announced five years ago. While we still don’t have much apart from short gameplay footage, early previews from content creators and journalists give us a glimpse into what might be Capcom’s weirdest new IP in years. And that’s saying something.
READ: Capcom's Strange New IP Could Be the Dark Horse Against GTA 6
The Expanse: Osiris Reborn Could Be the Next Mass Effect
When BioWare fumbled the ball with its big sci-fi titles, someone had to step up to fill the space opera void. Enter Osiris Reborn, set within the universe of the hit Amazon Prime show The Expanse, and based on James S.A. Corey’s acclaimed sci-fi novels.
Taking place between Book 1 and Book 2, the game explores the complex politics between Earth, Mars, and the inhabitants of the Asteroid Belt. And, as with any good space opera, a mysterious alien entity, known only as the Protomolecule, lurks at the center of it all.
READ: Why The Expanse: Osiris Reborn Could Be the Mass Effect Successor We Need
The Outer Worlds 2
Ever since Starfield failed to cement its place among sci-fi greats, Obsidian has stepped in once again. The Outer Worlds 2 promises a return to form for the studio, blending deep RPG mechanics with sharp writing and satirical storytelling.
Players will journey to the isolated Colony of Arcadia, carving out their own path in a branching storyline filled with dynamic choices and dialogue. It’s a far-flung capitalist nightmare, ripe for exploration, rebellion, and absurdity.
READ: The Outer Worlds 2 Shouldn’t Have Been Xbox’s First $80 Game
And that’s about it. While there are plenty more sci-fi games on the horizon, these five stand out to me as the most exciting, with the potential to push the genre to new heights in gaming.
For more science fiction game coverage, stick with us here at Gfinityesports.com, the best website for gamers.