Astrobotanica

Astrobotanica is a survival game that in many ways reminds of the Subnautica series. It is the debut project of the independent Polish team Space Goblin Studio.

Plot

Astrobotanica takes us back to the distant past, or more precisely – to Earth from the Pleistocene epoch (300 thousand years ago). During the game we play as Xel - a biologist from the planet Aya, who travels the galaxy in search of seeds that can help them feed their species. When the protagonist makes a hard landing on the surface of our globe, they must fight a difficult battle for survival in this inhospitable environment. Nonetheless, at the same time, a visit to Earth represents an opportunity for the biologist to find plants suitable for cultivation on their home planet.

Gameplay

In Astrobotanica we view the action from a first-person perspective (FPP). The core of the gameplay is exploring the Earth's flora using a special scanner and searching for plants that Xel will be able to use in various ways. Our biologist can cultivate the land by planting seeds, and then fertilizing and watering them. The necessity to protect crops from hungry birds and rodents also plays an important role here.

Plants are necessary for Xel both for the production of food and medicine, as well as for creating carbon dioxide, which is a basic component of the air to which the protagonist's respiratory system is adapted. This is not the end, as they also serve our character to brew various mixtures with different effects. With their help, the hero can produce masking clouds, sticky mucus, as well as sleeping or paralyzing gases.

These last ones come in handy especially during the exploration of the open world, because we can encounter terrestrial predators. Instead of fighting, a better solution for Xel is outsmarting enemies. Another thing is that not all living creatures are aggressively disposed towards the protagonist. Xel can help the Neanderthals he meets by dealing with their problems and curing their diseases. In return, he gains their respect and trust, as well as useful tools and materials.

As we progress, we develop the character within the PRIMAL system, based on six branches of development, related to things like planetary knowledge, management skills or even adaptation to new conditions. In breaks from fighting for survival, we can devote ourselves to building and decorating the base camp, as well as adjusting the appearance of the hero himself.

Graphics

The graphic design of Astrobotanica is maintained in a colorful, cartoonish and slightly caricatured style.