11 Bit Studios, the Polish developer renowned for its compelling narrative-driven games, has unveiled a new trailer for their much-anticipated sci-fi adventure, The Alters. As the release date draws near, the studio took a moment to reminisce about one of their most celebrated works, the wartime survival game This War of Mine, which garnered them international acclaim over a decade ago.
While This War of Mine is synonymous with its somber and bleak atmosphere, The Alters introduces a shift towards a more vibrant and often humorous storyline. This new game centers around the trials of alternate versions of protagonist Jan Dolski. Despite the stark contrast in tone, the developers highlight a deep thematic connection between the two titles.
Both games, though distinct in setting and mood, are unified by the overarching theme of survival. In This War of Mine, players are thrust into the grim realities of wartime, managing scarce resources and navigating daily challenges to keep their group of civilians alive amidst a besieged city. Conversely, The Alters frames survival as a relentless race against time, with players compelled to relocate their mobile base continuously to escape the destructive path of an unforgiving sun that reduces everything to dust.
Each game challenges players to step beyond their comfort zones, venturing into hostile territories in search of vital resources. The primary distinction lies in the protagonists; This War of Mine involves managing a group of diverse civilians, whereas The Alters introduces a unique team made up of alternate versions of the main character, Jan Dolski.
The Alters is slated for release in 2025 and will be available on PC, PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series X|S. Excitingly, the game will be accessible on Xbox Game Pass and PC Game Pass right from its launch day, offering players immediate access to this innovative survival experience.