Released on December 10, 2024, Astrometica is a space survival game developed by BeryMery and published by RockGame S.A. Described by many as Subnautica in space, the game doesn’t hide its inspirations, from the gameplay to the aesthetic presentation.
The plot of Astrometica follows an astronaut who survives an accident and must gather resources, uncover a mystery, and survive the hostile environment of an asteroid field. The game is available in early access, offering players a glimpse of an experience that blends exploration, crafting, and narrative tension.
Gameplay
The core gameplay of Astrometica closely resembles that of Subnautica: the player begins with an escape capsule and must explore to gather materials, scan wreckage to unlock blueprints, and craft useful items to improve their equipment. Oxygen management remains a constant challenge, pushing the player to carefully plan each foray into the dangerous asteroid field. In addition to raw resources and abandoned habitats, the environment presents threats such as a mysterious tentacle creature that attacks on sight, glowing cosmic plants, and sealed crates to unlock using a handy cutting tool in zero gravity.
Graphics and Soundtrack
The game’s aesthetic closely mirrors that of its spiritual predecessors. From the smooth interfaces to the soft, luminous menus, everything evokes the visual style of Subnautica. The tubular habitats and futuristic tools follow the same design, offering a visually appealing experience but not a revolutionary one. The soundtrack, however, stands out for its originality. Composed by Khosrow Zeynalnezhad, the electronic soundtrack immerses the player in the space atmosphere, heightening tension, especially during the exploration of the cosmic void. At times anxiety-inducing, it emphasizes the sense of isolation and danger, making each moment more intense. The space environment of Astrometica, while atmospheric, feels less alive compared to the oceanic ecosystems of Subnautica. This emptiness, although fitting for the setting, may feel somewhat alienating to some players, highlighting the solitude that permeates the experience.
Similarities and Uniqueness
Astrometica presents itself as a clear homage to Subnautica, bringing its essence into a space setting. While Unknown Worlds’ original game focused on complex biomes teeming with fauna, Astrometica offers a different experience, set in an asteroid field dotted with outposts, abandoned habitats, and cosmic anomalies. This approach amplifies the sense of isolation and mystery, capturing the essence of space’s emptiness. The game also introduces unique mechanics, such as lock cutting and analyzing spatial anomalies, enriching the core formula. As an early access title, Astrometica has ample room to expand its world and integrate additional content based on community feedback. This leaves space for evolution that could solidify its identity and further enrich the gameplay experience.
Conclusion
Astrometica is a well-crafted survival experience, though heavily inspired by Subnautica. Its space setting and gameplay mechanics, while familiar, manage to offer a unique atmosphere thanks to the cosmic void and environmental storytelling. However, the lack of vibrant ecosystems and a greater variety of biomes risks limiting its long-term appeal. It’s a title to keep an eye on, especially for genre fans, but with the understanding that it may not completely reinvent the formula that inspired it.
Astrometica
PRO
- Immersive space atmosphere.
- Unique mechanics
- Expansion potential in early access.
CON
- Few biomes and ecosystems.
- Empty and alienating environment
- Lack of interactive fauna.
- Isolation that limits dynamism.
6.5/10
