Owlcat games preps 'the expanse' rpg for 2027, promises mass effect-like depth

Fans of intricate RPGs, brace yourselves. Owlcat Games, the studio behind critically acclaimed titles like Pathfinder and Warhammer 40,000: Rogue Trader, is poised to deliver The Expanse: Osiris Reborn, a space-faring RPG promising a depth of choice and consequence rarely seen in the genre. A recent deep dive during the Xbox Partner Preview revealedgameplay and a firm Spring 2027 release window, alongside the imminent launch of a closed beta – a crucial test before the full launch.

A familiar inspiration, a distinct vision

The comparisons to BioWare’s Mass Effect are unavoidable, and Owlcat acknowledges the influence. “We’ve absolutely played Mass Effect, and we admire it greatly,” stated a spokesperson. “It was an inspiration. However, we’re not striving to be a successor. We’re building our own game, a space RPG rooted in the rich lore of The Expanse universe.” This isn’t just lip service; the team emphasizes a focus on player agency, exploration, and genuine narrative impact, differentiating it from a simple reskin of the established formula.

Combat that serves the narrative

While action certainly takes a front seat – expect plenty of firefights – it’s not the sole focus. Owlcat stresses that the RPG elements are paramount. Expect to leverage skill checks, intricate dialogue trees, and meaningful choices that ripple through the narrative. Tiroteos will be frequent, but always underpinned by the spirit of deep RPG systems that Owlcat fans have come to expect. A tactical pause mechanic allows players to carefully assess battlefield situations and coordinate their companions. What’s more intriguing is the promise of zero-gravity combat sequences, a unique challenge reflecting the harsh realities of space exploration.

Beyond the familiar: companions, ships, and a solar system to explore

Osiris Reborn boasts a roster of six companions, each with their own distinct backgrounds and personalities shaped by their Martian, Earth, or Belter origins. These relationships will evolve based on player decisions, with potential for romance—though not every character will be open to forming such bonds. Players will command their own spacecraft, assigning crew roles and influencing mission outcomes. While full-scale planetary exploration won’t be a feature—forget a Mass Effect-style Mako—the game does offer freedom to choose destinations and uncover hidden secrets within the solar system.

A tale within a universe

The game’s narrative unfolds in the aftermath of events depicted in the first three novels and two seasons of The Expanse series. While familiarity with the source material is helpful, Owlcat insists that newcomers won’t be lost. “We’ve focused on ensuring anyone can understand what’s happening,” they assure, although those versed in the series’ lore will undoubtedly appreciate the nuanced references and deeper context. Players assume the role of a mercenary, navigating a complex geopolitical landscape and encountering familiar faces along the way.

With a Spring 2027 launch on the horizon and a closed beta imminent, Owlcat Games is aiming to deliver a space RPG that not only honors the legacy of The Expanse but also carves its own distinct path within the genre. The stakes are high, but given Owlcat’s track record, the potential for a truly exceptional experience is undeniable.