The Expanse: Osiris Reborn, an upcoming third-person shooter from Owlcat Games, is shaping up to be a faithful adaptation of the popular science fiction universe, according to a preview from Gamescom 2026. The game is set to launch in spring 2027 for PlayStation 5, Windows PC, and Xbox Series X.
The game takes place concurrently with the first three seasons of the television series, and the initial books, placing players in the role of a custom character and their twin, J, alongside a cast of misfits. While players won't directly control the Rocinante's crew, they will experience major events from different perspectives, with familiar characters like James Holden making appearances.
Combat in Osiris Reborn is described as mirroring the first three Mass Effect games, featuring third-person, cover-based shooting with squadmate commands. The preview highlights that combat is punchy, responsive, and demands both tactical planning and instinctual movement, evoking the intensity of classic third-person shooters.
However, the game’s design appears to extend beyond mere combat. A mission previewed, "Beetle in the Anthill," which takes place around the time of Eros Station's destruction and is estimated to be about an hour into the game's roughly 30-hour playtime, emphasized non-lethal approaches and immersive sim elements. Players are tasked with gathering information on the paramilitary organization Protogen, but initial gameplay focused on hacking computers, obtaining invoices, and scanning shipping containers rather than immediate confrontation.
This approach reflects what is seen as the core essence of The Expanse, which often prioritizes the political and human aspects of conflict over the battles themselves. The environment design on Ganymede station is also noted as impressive, with meticulous recreations of source material elements, such as the agricultural domes, presented with restraint. These recognizable landmarks serve as narrative foreshadowing for fans, while simply appearing as compelling environments for newcomers.
The preview culminated in a tense sequence involving a Hybrid — a Protomolecule-mutated human — chasing the player's crew through tunnels. The encounter required players to make choices, such as assigning squad members to different tasks like evacuating civilians or hacking systems, hinting at Mass Effect-style consequences.
Despite its mechanical strengths and apparent dedication to the source material, Osiris Reborn faces the challenge of adapting a property that concluded its television run five years prior. However, the developers aim to create an experience that satisfies long-time fans while introducing the universe's appeal to new players, much like The Witcher and Metro games did for their respective book series.