A group of former BioWare veterans is set to launch an exciting new project titled Exodus, which is scheduled for release next year. This cosmic RPG draws clear inspiration from Mass Effect, particularly given the talented team behind it, while also incorporating elements from Horizon and Metroid.
Exodus is helmed by industry veterans James Ohlen, Drew Karpyshyn, and Chad Robertson, all of whom have extensive backgrounds at BioWare. They’re now working as part of Archetype Entertainment, with their debut title being released through Wizards of the Coast. As an action RPG, the game is well within the wheelhouse of developers known for classics like Star Wars: Knights of the Old Republic and Jade Empire, but they are eager to explore new creative avenues.
Game Inspirations and Features
Robertson discussed how elements from Horizon influence combat design, specifically the need for strategic decision-making when facing various foes. “With Horizon, it’s that elemental aspect of combat, where you’ve got to make decisions based on the construction of the things that you’re fighting, and be smart about the tools that you use against it,” he commented during an official Q&A video.
From the available gameplay footage, players can expect to encounter a range of robotic and mechanical adversaries, reminiscent of the massive biomechanical creatures that Aloy hunts in the Horizon series. Additionally, the atmosphere and scale of the game universe draw heavily from the iconic adventures of Samus Aran.
Exploration and Game Design
Chris King, the game director for Exodus, elaborated on the sense of exploration this game aims to foster. “One of the things that really resonates is the exploration, just hopping on a spaceship, being out in the middle of nowhere,” he explained, expressing appreciation for the solitude found in Metroid Prime.
King also hinted at some roguelike mechanics, including barriers that players will need “celestial tech” to overcome, a familiar concept to fans of Samus’s adventures. With these compelling influences and the addition of Matthew McConaughey lending his voice to one of the characters, Exodus is shaping up to be an intriguing title. Now, the gaming community eagerly awaits its arrival in 2026.
Meanwhile, fans can anticipate even more news as Mass Effect 5 director has teased the return of the iconic lens flares for the next installment, indicating that BioWare continues to push the boundaries of the sci-fi RPG experience.