Owlcat Games' upcoming RPG, The Expanse: Osiris Reborn, is shaping up to be a compelling experience, drawing significant comparisons to BioWare's seminal Mass Effect series. A recent hands-on preview at Gamescom revealed a game that not only refines the cinematic, third-person RPG formula but also introduces innovative mechanics for squad interaction and mission design.
Refined Combat and Companion Abilities
The Expanse: Osiris Reborn adopts an isometric CRPG developer's approach to a third-person cinematic RPG, blending cover-heavy squad-based shooting with strategic team management. The combat system is described as more responsive and varied than its predecessors, with players able to issue commands to their three-person squad for spectacular "exploits." These special maneuvers highlight environmental features, allowing companions to trigger explosive chain reactions. For instance, one companion, J, can target destructible cover or other objects, while another can electrify exposed wiring to incapacitate groups of enemies.
Players can also leverage their chosen class abilities. Playing as an engineer, for example, allows for the deployment of turrets and drones. A newly introduced stun drone proved particularly effective against heavily armed foes like flamethrower units, enabling a quick follow-up attack. The combat appears to have been significantly improved since earlier demos, with the developer seemingly nailing the Mass Effect-style cinematic action from the outset.
Heist-Focused Missions and Crew Interaction
Beyond its combat, Osiris Reborn emphasizes heist-style missions, reminiscent of Mass Effect 2's recruitment and loyalty missions. The preview highlighted a scenario where the player infiltrates a facility disguised as an employee, utilizing dialogue and environmental interaction to bypass security. When direct persuasion failed due to insufficient skill, a solution was found by accessing a terminal and having a crewmate forge documents remotely.
A standout feature is the integration of the entire crew into mission progression, even when they are not physically present. This system allows specialists on the player's ship to offer expertise, provide solutions to obstacles, or even generate intel. This level of persistent crew involvement aims to create a convincing illusion of agency for NPCs and a genuine sense of teamwork, a departure from the more ancillary roles of off-mission crew in Mass Effect. These interactions also serve to flesh out character personalities through banter and individual requests.
Environmental Storytelling and Atmosphere
The game also excels in its environmental storytelling and atmospheric design. Exploring derelict underground warrens on Ganymede shifted the tone from a corporate thriller to a horror-themed experience, while the Protogen facility offered ample opportunities for environmental exposition and emergent NPC interactions. The game also includes numerous nods to fans of The Expanse's books and television series, integrated in a way that serves as worldbuilding for newcomers.
The preview concluded on a cliffhanger, leaving the player eager to continue the narrative. The Expanse: Osiris Reborn is slated for release in the second quarter of 2027.