New sci-fi survival game hits Steam with "Very Positive" reviews, intense gameplay, and a launch discount
11 bit studios’ newest title The Alters is now available on Steam as a full release. Released on June 13, the game has quickly picked up momentum with a "Very Positive" rating based on over 1,000 user reviews.
Built around survival mechanics and sci-fi storytelling, The Alters puts players in control of Jan Dolski, the only survivor of a crashed expedition on a hostile planet. To survive, players must create alternate versions of Jan - called Alters - each one shaped by a key decision from his past. These variants bring different traits and skillsets, thus forming a makeshift crew with deep personal conflicts.
While the game brings together multiple genres - including base-building, time and resource management, and narrative branching - community response so far shows a divide. Some players are all for the emotional weight and originality of the premise, while others, especially in the Steam reviews section, are voicing concerns about the timer-based gameplay. One review describes it as "a survival game not need for speed racing," implying that the ticking clock mechanic undercuts the exploration angle. Others are arguing that it adds strategic pressure, even if it’s not for everyone.
The game offers a full campaign experience and comes wtih both standard and deluxe editions. The deluxe version includes cosmetic outfits, a soundtrack, and future DLC - though these extras don’t appear to affect gameplay directly.
The Alters is now live for PC, PS5 (curr. $499 on Amazon), and Xbox Series X|S at launch. As of writing, it is available with a 10% launch discount, bringing its price down to $31.49. With its mix of existential storytelling and real-time survival strategy, it’s one of the more unconventional launches from 11 bit studios in recent years.
Check out the game here, and take a look at the game trailer below:
