Claustrophobic hallways and a lurking predator create an atmosphere of tension that is hard to shake off, reminiscent of the acclaimed Alien Isolation. However, this time, the spotlight shines on Routine, an indie game that has finally emerged from over a decade of development challenges since its initial announcement in 2012. Now available, it stands out as one of the premier horror experiences of the past year, and for those eagerly anticipating Alien Isolation 2, Routine presents an enticing opportunity at a competitive price.
Design and Gameplay
After years of anticipation, one might expect Routine to succumb to the pitfalls of development bloat, transforming from a focused narrative into a sprawling, less cohesive experience. Thankfully, this is not the case. Routine maintains a tight, suffocating level design that encourages players to adopt a slow, deliberate approach. Stealth becomes essential for survival, contrasting sharply with the more aggressive, combat-heavy style of games like Resident Evil.
In this sci-fi universe, players embody the role of a ‘basic’ worker, their spacesuit serving as a blank canvas for the player’s imagination. The absence of a traditional narrative is compensated by environmental storytelling, conveyed through scattered documents and the remnants of chaos. This design choice allows players to immerse themselves in a hauntingly crafted world, reminiscent of Kubrick’s cinematic style.
While Routine shares similarities with Alien Isolation, it also draws inspiration from titles like SOMA, integrating terminals and puzzles that enhance interactivity and realism. Each step and interaction heightens the tension, especially when faced with menacing foes such as the Type-05 security robots, which relentlessly pursue players, creating a palpable sense of dread.
Developer Lunar Software recognizes the dire circumstances of its characters, equipping them with minimal means of defense. The weaponry available feels almost futile against the relentless threats, amplifying the fear as players aim for weak points. In true horror fashion, the enemies are undeterred by conventional attacks, advancing through obstacles to reach their target.
Critics have responded positively to Routine, with Nat awarding it an impressive 9/10 in our review. She noted, “What Routine lacks in quantity, it makes up for in staggering quality.” The game has earned a spot on our Game of the Year 2025 list, standing alongside heavyweights like Arc Raiders, Dispatch, and Expedition 33.
For those intrigued by this unique horror experience or those waiting for the perfect moment to expand their Steam library, Routine is currently available for just .74 at Fanatical, marking the lowest price to date.
Whether you’re looking to delve into more horror adventures following a Resident Evil Requiem session or simply passing time in anticipation of Alien Isolation 2, Routine is certainly worth exploring.
