Archetype Entertainment's upcoming sci-fi RPG Exodus draws comparisons to Mass Effect but introduces time dilation as a core element affecting gameplay and story. Developed by former Mass Effect writer Drew Karpyshyn, the game explores relativity's impact on space travel, where years or generations pass for those left behind during missions. Set for release in 2027 on PC, PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series X/S, it stars Matthew McConaughey in his video game debut.
Overview
Exodus, from Archetype Entertainment, is a space-faring RPG that echoes Mass Effect in its aesthetic and structure, including acquiring a spaceship and assembling a crew to tackle cosmic threats. However, it distinguishes itself through a commitment to hard sci-fi principles, particularly time dilation derived from real-world physics like those in relativity theory.
Time Dilation Mechanics
Time dilation means travelers approaching light speed age slower than stationary observers, leading to significant temporal gaps upon return. Narrative director Drew Karpyshyn emphasized this in an interview: "The impact of time dilation is something very unique and fresh... We really lean into it. It's an important part of our IP and a very important part of our story." Unlike instant travel in most sci-fi games, journeys in Exodus span years, altering choice outcomes over extended periods.
Details remain sparse, but clues from the companion tabletop RPG book suggest consequences unfold across brackets like 0-9 years, 10-30 years, and beyond 100 years. These could involve personal events for "anchors"—close relationships such as family or companions—or broader world changes, including technological shifts, ecological disasters, or societal upheavals.
Gameplay Structure
The game's hub is the home planet, not the spaceship, so players select companions for expeditions, leaving others to experience normal time flow. Game director Chris King noted: "You'll go travel in the ship but primarily our hub is back on the home world... You do bring your companions on the ship with you." Upon landing, two companions join initially, with options to swap.
Studio co-founder Chad Robertson added that time dilation is a normalized risk in the universe: "They understand it as a phenomenon of their existence... We want it to be shocking to players when there's changes that occur at a big scale."
Cast and Release
Featuring a cast with "pretty thirsty" companions, Exodus marks Oscar winner Matthew McConaughey's entry into gaming. The title launches in 2027 across major platforms, promising deep role-playing conundrums tied to temporal consequences.
