Rise of the Octopus: Exodus Reborn

Unveiling Archetype’s Space RPG Exodus: A Potential Mass Effect Successor?

As the gaming world eagerly anticipates the next big space RPG, Archetype’s Exodus is making waves as a potential unofficial Mass Effect 5. With The Expanse: Osiris Reborn falling short, Exodus seems to be the frontrunner, set to release on April 7, 2027. The new trailer introduces us to Salt, a super-intelligent octopus sniper who pilots a mech, adding a unique twist to the game’s narrative.

Salt’s character stands out not only for her intriguing design as a human-octopod hybrid but also for her selfish and complex personality. The game also features Emrys, a Celestial with a plural consciousness, promising intricate squad interactions. However, one noticeable drawback is the somewhat lacklustre main character, Jun Aslan, who comes off as a generic chosen one with familiar moral dilemmas and family issues.

While the game boasts impressive visuals and a captivating storyline revolving around ancient Celestial artifacts and a mysterious interstellar disease, Jun Aslan’s character design falls short of expectations. The default male Jun lacks the depth and uniqueness that RPG protagonists typically possess. The absence of a robust character editor limits players to predefined options, leaving little room for customization.

Contrasting Jun Aslan with iconic RPG characters like Commander Shepard from Mass Effect, it becomes evident that a protagonist’s appeal lies in their complexity and uniqueness. Shepard’s ability to be both charismatic and imperfect resonates with players, creating a sense of connection and authenticity.

Personalization and evolution of characters over a series can significantly enhance player engagement, as seen in the evolution of custom Shepards in the Mass Effect trilogy. Despite initial appearances, characters like Femshep undergo changes and developments that add depth and intrigue to their stories.

Looking ahead to the release of Exodus, there is hope that the game’s narrative and gameplay will compensate for any shortcomings in character design. With the potential for machinima artists to breathe new life into the protagonist post-launch, players may still find ways to connect with Jun Aslan and uncover hidden depths within the game.

For a closer look at Exodus’ gameplay and storytelling, check out the extended playthrough video linked below. Stay tuned for more updates as we countdown to the game’s highly anticipated release.