Indie developer Space Goblin Studio has released Astrobotanica in early access on Steam, accompanied by a new launch trailer. Players take on the role of Xel, an alien botanist surviving on prehistoric Earth through plant-based science. The game emphasizes exploration, crafting, and interaction with Neanderthals in a challenging wilderness.
Space Goblin Studio, an indie game developer and publisher, has launched Astrobotanica in early access on Steam. The release includes a new trailer showcasing the current build, which players can access immediately while the team continues development toward a final version.
In Astrobotanica, players control Xel, a highly educated alien botanist on a mission to collect rare seeds to save their home planet. After crashing on prehistoric Earth, Xel faces wild animals, primal humans, and a toxic atmosphere. Survival relies on knowledge of alien botany, including growing and processing unfamiliar Earth flora into food and medicine. Experimentation and research help identify plant species that could thrive on the home planet, while cultivating essential herbage provides the carbon dioxide needed to breathe.
Neanderthals in the game are described as curious yet timid. Players can learn to communicate with them, earn trust, and cure their ailments using hand-crafted potions from plants. In return, Neanderthals may offer tools, supplies, or assistance. To protect property and crops from natural disasters and wildlife, players build walls, floors, and fences, expanding a basic shelter into a more secure abode.
The untamed wilderness offers secrets and a variety of plants to study, with observation playing a key role in discovery. However, players must remain vigilant against dangerous yet appealing local fauna. Progression is shaped by six unique skill paths: Planetary Knowledge, Research, Investigation, Management, Adaptation, and Learning. Knowledge Points are assigned based on playstyle preferences to define advancement.
This science-driven survival game highlights adaptation and plant science in a prehistoric setting.
