“The Alters”: A Sci-Fi Game That Clones Your Curiosity

A new computer game from a celebrated Polish studio merges philosophical storytelling with intense resource management, challenging players to explore the multiverse while surviving the daily grind. It’s an intriguing premise for players looking for something different.

Parallel Universes and Player Choice

**Von Robert Glashüttner**’s game delves into the many-worlds interpretation, which proposes the constant splitting of realities. Every possible event begets a new dimension, creating a complex web where you could be a famous artist in one world or an office worker in another. The game’s central question: What if?

This intriguing concept has inspired numerous science fiction narratives. “The Alters” presents a new variant where the protagonist, **Jan Dolski**, must clone himself to survive. These clones represent alternative life paths, each with their unique experiences, their reality a mystery.

Survival in Space

**Jan Dolski** is the sole survivor of an emergency landing on a mining planet. He seeks refuge aboard a mobile space station, which conveniently happens to be readily available. An employee suggests exploiting the rare metal, Rapidium, to accelerate organic growth.

Operating a space station alone is impossible, so **Jan** begins cloning himself using a quantum computer. The process, called “Branching,” simulates alternative life paths based on brain analysis. Thanks to Rapidium, these simulations become reality: a clone with an alternate life is born.

Gameplay: Story vs. Resource Management

The game intertwines a compelling sci-fi story with a management game. Initially, players explore the planet, collecting resources, and constructing rooms within the space station, such as greenhouses and laboratories. Taking care of the clones’ well-being is crucial for their productivity.

However, problems soon emerge. Clones become irritable and argue with the original, and resource scarcity becomes a constant challenge. The game’s difficulty can be frustrating. Magnetic storms can quickly contaminate the base and crew, leading to a swift “Game Over.” The need to replay sections and the repetition of dialogue diminish the initial excitement.

The Road Ahead

Released by 11 bit studios for Windows, PS5, and Xbox Series, the game presents a tough management aspect. The hope is that 11 bit studios will introduce a patch, streamlining the gameplay to allow players to fully appreciate the story without the stress of constant time pressure.

FM4 Spielkammerl Live Stream

On Thursday, June 19th, **Michi**, **Robert**, and **Michi** will be playing the game in FM4 Spielkammerl’s weekly live streaming format.

Descriptive caption

According to a 2023 study by the Entertainment Software Association, 55% of Americans play video games daily, showing the broad appeal of interactive storytelling. (Source: Entertainment Software Association)

“Exact quotation with **Person Name bolded**.”
—Speaker Name, Title

Ultimately, “The Alters” is a blend of engaging science fiction and sometimes annoying micromanagement.