ROUTINE is a first-person sci-fi horror game developed by Lunar Software, set on an eerie, abandoned lunar base inspired by an 80s vision of the future. As you navigate this silent facility, your quest for answers will pit you against an adversary convinced that you are the primary threat. The game’s standout feature is its lack of waypoint markers, forcing players to rely on their observational skills and environment analysis to progress. This design choice emphasizes exploration, making every discovery significant as you piece together the story of what happened on the base.

The Lunar Base

ROUTINE transports players to a lunar base with distinct sectors, each with its own atmosphere and challenges. From crumbling living quarters and tram stations to an abandoned mall, every location is filled with clues and details that contribute to the narrative. Players must explore these areas thoroughly to gather information and understand the events leading up to the present silence. The absence of guidance markers adds a layer of challenge, encouraging players to slow down and engage with their surroundings.

The Cosmonaut Assistance Tool

The Cosmonaut Assistance Tool (C.A.T.) is an indispensable device for surviving on the lunar base. It allows players to access terminals, navigate through the environment, and uncover essential clues. The C.A.T. is also a crucial means of defense, enabling players to run, hide, or fend off threats when necessary. Mastering its use is key to progressing in the game and ensuring survival against the enigmatic dangers that lurk in the shadows.

A Minimalist Interface

ROUTINE features a minimalist interface with full body awareness and diegetic audio elements, enhancing player immersion. By minimizing on-screen prompts and relying on atmospheric cues, the game fosters a sense of presence within its haunting environment. This design choice requires players to be attentive and deliberate in their actions, heightening the tension and engagement as they unravel the lunar base’s mysteries.