In the vast reaches of a colonized solar system, The Expanse: Osiris Reborn stands out as a story-driven sci-fi action RPG that blends third-person shooting with deep narrative choices. Developed by Owlcat Games, known for titles like Warhammer 40,000: Rogue Trader, this PC exclusive puts you in the boots of a Pinkwater Security mercenary caught in a conspiracy that spans asteroids and planets. With its focus on squad tactics, companion relationships, and branching storylines, it appeals to fans of tactical RPGs and immersive sci-fi worlds.
Gameplay
The core of The Expanse: Osiris Reborn revolves around third-person combat that emphasizes cover mechanics and strategic use of abilities. You control a customizable captain, choosing origins like Earther, Martian, or Belter, which influence interactions and story paths. In battles, two companions join you directly, while others provide remote support by hacking systems or distracting foes. Real-time commands let you direct squad actions on the fly, adapting to threats in varied environments, from ruined habitats to zero-gravity skirmishes where mag-boots and firefights add tension.
Exploration plays a key role, as you visit locations such as Ganymede, Ceres, Mars, and Luna to talk with locals, uncover secrets, and make decisions that shape alliances. Your ship serves as a hub, where building relationships with crew members through dialogue and choices can strengthen loyalties or lead to conflicts. Combat integrates RPG elements like weapon discovery and upgrades, drawing inspiration from games that reward exploration without extreme difficulty spikes.
Game Modes
This action RPG centers on a single-player campaign, where the narrative unfolds through missions tied to the overarching conspiracy. There are no multiplayer options confirmed, keeping the experience focused on solo play with squad-based elements. The campaign allows for replayability through different character customizations and choice-driven branches, letting you experience varied outcomes across playthroughs.
Story and Setting
Set in the 24th century amid fragile solar system alliances, The Expanse: Osiris Reborn draws from the established universe of political intrigue and human expansion. You start on the asteroid Eros during a lockdown, escalating into system-wide threats involving factions like Earth, Mars, and the Belt. Companions come with personal backstories, and your leadership decisions affect their arcs, including potential romances that add emotional depth.
The game's mechanics encourage influencing events through skills and dialogue, with environments reflecting societal tensions, from decaying asteroids to fortified strongholds. This setup creates a grounded sci-fi atmosphere, where every choice impacts the fragile balance of power.
Is It Worth Playing?
If you enjoy narrative-heavy action RPGs with tactical third-person combat and meaningful companion interactions, The Expanse: Osiris Reborn offers a compelling option. Its blend of shooting, exploration, and choice-based storytelling suits players who appreciate games like Mass Effect, especially with the added layer of squad commands and relationship building. For those seeking a solo sci-fi experience on PC, it provides hours of engagement through its branching paths and detailed world. However, if you prefer fast-paced multiplayer shooters, this might not align as closely, given its emphasis on story and strategy over competitive modes.
