For fans of sprawling space operas and intricate role-playing games, 2027 is shaping up to be a landmark year. Two ambitious titles, Exodus and The Expanse: Osiris Reborn, are poised to deliver the kind of immersive, choice-driven experiences that have been largely absent since the heyday of the Mass Effect series. Both games are already generating significant buzz, fueled by recent gameplay reveals and a clear commitment to the core tenets of the sci-fi RPG genre.
The anticipation stems, in part, from a desire for a return to form. The Mass Effect franchise, known for its compelling narratives, memorable characters, and impactful player decisions, left a void when it went dormant. These upcoming titles aren’t simply aiming to fill that space; they’re building upon the foundations laid by BioWare’s landmark series, although forging their own distinct identities.
Exploring the Solar System in The Expanse: Osiris Reborn
Developed by Owlcat Games, the studio behind the critically acclaimed Warhammer 40,000: Rogue Trader, The Expanse: Osiris Reborn is an adaptation of the popular science fiction television series of the same name. Set during the early seasons of the show, the game places players in the role of a Pinkwater mercenary captain navigating the complex political landscape of the solar system. A recent gameplay trailer, showcased at the Xbox showcase, offered a first look at the game’s mechanics, confirming its strong inspiration from Mass Effect.
The trailer demonstrates a familiar blend of third-person shooting, dialogue-driven interactions, and strategic squad-based combat. Owlcat Games has openly acknowledged the influence of Mass Effect, stating that players familiar with Commander Shepard’s adventures will feel right at home with the game’s systems. According to IGN, the game will also feature romance options, a staple of the BioWare RPG experience.
Interestingly, Owlcat is incorporating generative AI into the development process, but with a carefully defined scope. As reported by Eurogamer, the technology is being used primarily for technical tasks, such as converting 2D images to 3D models and creating placeholder assets. Crucially, the studio has emphasized that all writing and voice acting will be entirely human-created, ensuring the narrative integrity and emotional depth of the game.
BioWare DNA in Exodus
While The Expanse: Osiris Reborn draws inspiration from an existing universe, Exodus is an original IP developed by Archetype Entertainment. What sets Exodus apart is its direct connection to the creators of Mass Effect. Several key developers at Archetype are veterans of BioWare, bringing with them a wealth of experience and a shared vision for immersive, story-rich RPGs.
A recent gameplay teaser showcased the game’s fast-paced combat, squad dynamics, and a Mass Effect-inspired weapon wheel that allows players to pause the action and strategically select their next move. The developers have promised a sprawling universe filled with branching choices and compelling characters, hallmarks of the BioWare style. Adding a unique twist, Exodus also features a grappling hook, offering players new traversal and combat options.
Early Access Opportunities for Osiris Reborn
Players eager to experience The Expanse: Osiris Reborn before its full release in spring 2027 will have the opportunity to participate in a closed beta. According to Owlcat Games, those who pre-order the $80 Miller’s Pack or the $290 Collector’s Edition will gain access to the beta on all platforms starting April 22. This provides an early glimpse into the game’s mechanics and allows developers to gather valuable feedback before launch.
The Future of Sci-Fi RPGs
Both Exodus and The Expanse: Osiris Reborn are slated for release on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC in 2027. The convergence of these two ambitious projects signals a potential renaissance for the sci-fi RPG genre. The commitment to player agency, compelling narratives, and immersive world-building suggests that these games could recapture the magic that made Mass Effect such a beloved franchise.
The development teams are clearly aware of the expectations placed upon them. By drawing inspiration from the best of the past while innovating with new ideas and technologies, they are positioning these titles to grow defining experiences for a new generation of RPG players. The spring 2027 release of The Expanse: Osiris Reborn marks the next key milestone, and fans will be closely watching for further updates and gameplay reveals in the coming months.
What are your thoughts on these upcoming RPGs? Share your excitement and predictions in the comments below!
