Kinetic Publishing has officially partnered with Cold Zephyr Games to bring the starship job simulation game Contact Protocol to a diverse array of platforms, including PlayStation 5, Xbox Series, Switch 2, and PC via Steam, with a planned release in spring 2027. This collaboration promises to deliver a unique gaming experience that challenges players’ decision-making abilities under pressure.
According to Mick Hunter, the lead designer at Cold Zephyr Games, the concept behind Contact Protocol revolves around the notion that high-pressure situations often lead to poor decision-making. “We’ve engineered the game so that the player’s cognitive load is at its highest whenever they are faced with a difficult moral decision,” he explained in a recent press release. The game aims to push players to navigate the thin line between fulfilling their duties and making ethically sound choices.
Game Overview
In Contact Protocol, players step into the shoes of a security officer aboard the starship Pale Horse, a mining vessel operated by GalCo, as it embarks on a journey to Jupiter’s largest moon. The gameplay involves assessing the intentions of approaching ships, meticulously comparing their claims against company records to determine whether they pose a threat or are allies.
This role is anything but straightforward; as players delve into discrepancies and respond to information requests, the unknown ship inches closer. The stakes are high—misjudging a situation could lead to catastrophic outcomes for the Pale Horse, while a hasty decision to fire upon a suspicious vessel could result in the loss of innocent lives. Compounding the tension is the ever-watchful eye of the company, where mismanagement of paperwork could lead to legal repercussions.
Key Features
- Investigate, Interrogate, Engage – Players will cross-reference incoming data bursts against company records, seek clarifications on discrepancies, and make critical decisions regarding incoming ships.
- Multi-Task – The gameplay demands players to manage multiple tasks simultaneously, including fixing contact frequencies, checking hull images, and recovering corrupted data—all while maintaining communication.
- Choices Matter – Every decision made by the player influences relationships with the crew and alters narratives, creating ripple effects throughout the solar system.
- Procedural Starships – Each encounter is unique, ensuring that no two experiences are alike and outcomes remain unpredictable.
- A Painted Universe – Players will explore a visually striking science-fiction world, characterized by a gritty art style that complements the game’s intense atmosphere.
For those eager to catch a glimpse of what Contact Protocol has to offer, a new video has been released, along with a gallery of screenshots showcasing the game’s distinctive visuals.
Publisher Announce Video
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