After a staggering development period of 13 years, the highly anticipated sci-fi horror video game Routine has finally made its debut, published by Raw Fury and developed by Lunar Software. First announced at Gamescom in 2012, the game has garnered attention for its unique blend of atmospheric horror and retro aesthetics.
Journey into the Unknown
Set in a deserted moonbase in the near future, Routine distinguishes itself from typical sci-fi settings with its gritty realism. Players awaken in a claustrophobic, windowless room filled with the hum of machinery, where the stark environment is reminiscent of classic films like Alien. The room features a monochrome monitor and minimal furnishings, creating an unsettling atmosphere that sets the tone for the gameplay ahead.
Your character, an IT technician tasked with debugging a malfunctioning security system, must navigate this oppressive space without any initial guidance. The game’s design encourages exploration and problem-solving, requiring players to interact with their surroundings to progress. The absence of traditional quest markers enhances the sense of isolation and tension, as players rely solely on observation and inference to find their way.
Immersive Gameplay Mechanics
The gameplay mechanics of Routine emphasize realism and immersion. Players learn to maneuver their character through various actions such as crouching, standing on tiptoe, and crawling, all accompanied by realistic sound effects. The detailed environment, from the weathered walls to the scattered litter, contributes to the game’s authenticity.
Central to navigating the moonbase is the C.A.T. (Cosmonaut Assistance Tool), a retro-styled device that assists players in interacting with the environment. While it initially appears limited in functionality, players soon discover its potential for short-circuiting electrical systems, adding a layer of strategy to gameplay.
As players delve deeper into the facility, they face not only environmental challenges but also threats from patrolling Type-05 robots that roam the moonbase. The sound design plays a crucial role in building suspense, with the clanking of robots and their mechanical whirrs heightening the sense of danger. Players must outmaneuver these relentless foes, adding an element of thrill to the otherwise methodical exploration.
Encounters with these machines require careful planning, as players have only a limited number of uses for the C.A.T. before needing to search for new batteries. This scarcity amplifies the tension, forcing players to weigh their options and strategize for survival.
Despite its strengths, Routine is not without its challenges. The often obscure clues may leave players feeling stuck at times, particularly in larger areas where progress hinges on noticing subtle details. Nevertheless, the game’s ability to evoke genuine fear and tension marks a significant achievement for a title that has spent over a decade in development.
Overall, Routine delivers an atmospheric and engaging experience that invites players into its eerie world. Its combination of immersive visuals, sound design, and challenging gameplay positions it as a noteworthy entry in the survival horror genre. As players confront the mysteries of Union Plaza, they will find themselves navigating a haunting landscape that lingers long after the game ends.
Routine is available on Xbox Series X/S, Xbox One, and PC, with a release date of December 4, 2025. With a rating of 16+, the game promises a thrilling experience for mature audiences seeking a deep and unsettling horror adventure.
