Industry veterans are setting their sights on a new frontier with *Exodus*, an enterprising space-based RPG currently in development with a planned release in early 2027 for PC, PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series. [[1]] The project, first revealed at The Game Awards in 2023 and featuring actor Matthew McConaughey in its announcement, is spearheaded by Archetype Entertainment, a studio co-founded by key figures from bioware’s acclaimed *Baldur’s Gate*, *Star Wars: Knights of the old Republic*, and *Mass Effect* franchises. [[2]] [[3]]
A new space-based RPG, titled Exodus, is aiming to be one of the most ambitious role-playing games ever created. Developed by Archetype Entertainment, a studio founded by industry veterans, the game is currently slated for release in early 2027 on PC, PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series.
First unveiled at The Game Awards in 2023, Exodus immediately generated excitement thanks to the pedigree of its creators. Archetype Entertainment was co-founded by James Ohlen, previously the creative director at BioWare, where he led development on iconic titles like Baldur’s Gate and Star Wars: Knights of the Old Republic. He partnered with Chad Robertson, a former vice president at BioWare. The game’s narrative is being crafted by Drew Karpyshyn, the lead writer behind the acclaimed Mass Effect and Mass Effect 2.
The team’s impressive background has fueled anticipation among RPG fans. Since its initial announcement, the official website has been regularly updated with details about the game’s setting, story, and core themes. A gameplay trailer and a projected early 2027 release window were revealed at The Game Awards in December 2025.
A 40,000-Year Journey
Set in the 23rd century, Exodus depicts a future where Earth is facing ecological collapse. Humanity launches massive “ark ships” into the universe in search of habitable planets. Forty thousand years later, one of these ships reaches the Centauri star cluster and sends a signal to the rest of the fleet. As humanity converges on this new home, distinct factions emerge with competing visions for the future.
However, the Centauri cluster is not uninhabited. The Celestials, a race born from the union of humans and an extraterrestrial species, possess advanced technology and pose an existential threat to the arriving humans. Players will take on the role of Jun Aslan, a former scavenger turned “Traveler,” tasked with mastering Celestial technology to save humanity – a journey where choices have far-reaching consequences.
Travelers are dispatched to the farthest reaches of the universe to recover Celestial relics. But due to the effects of near-light-speed travel, even short missions can translate into decades passing on the home planet. Returning players will find a world dramatically changed, with loved ones aged and humanity potentially altering its course. The game emphasizes the weight of long-term decisions and the sacrifices required to shape the future.
Players will encounter other species during their travels, including the genetically modified Changelings and the Awakened – animals from Earth imbued with extraordinary intelligence, some of whom can join the player’s crew. This diverse cast of characters underscores the game’s focus on complex relationships and narrative depth.
The concept of time dilation will be central to gameplay. Players must carefully consider the consequences of their destinations, factoring in the time that will elapse back home. This mechanic promises a unique and highly replayable experience, with each playthrough offering a different perspective on the unfolding events.
Third-Person Shooter Gameplay with Supernatural Powers
Given the experience of Archetype Entertainment’s leadership, narrative is expected to be a key component of Exodus. Relationships with other characters will likely play a significant role in the overall gameplay, mirroring the emphasis on character interactions seen in titles like Mass Effect. The studio has confirmed the inclusion of romance options.
Exodus will also feature action-oriented gameplay, with players battling the Celestials in third-person. The protagonist, Jun Aslan, will wield a versatile weapon called the Recycler, adaptable to various combat situations. A special gauntlet allows him to merge with Celestial relics, granting powerful supernatural abilities. This blend of action and RPG elements aims to deliver a dynamic and engaging combat experience.
Players will be able to recruit companions to aid them on their missions, forming an elite team. Building strong relationships with these companions will be crucial for success in combat.
Exodus is scheduled for release in early 2027 on PC, PS5, and Xbox Series.
