Here’s where it gets brilliant: the base’s quantum computer taps into your life’s most formative memories. Missed engineering classes in college? Or never bothered becoming a scientist? You can now simulate those alternate decisions, spawning “You 2.0” with those exact skill sets. Need an engineer? Clone one. Need a scientist? Clone that version. From there, the story opens up - dozens of alternate selves, all versions of you working together, pooling knowledge and labor to rebuild the base and escape disaster.
It’s not just gameplay - it’s a deeply philosophical and emotional sci-fi narrative. These clones, your “alters,” aren’t mindless drones. They know they’re simulated - temporary, purpose-built, and bound by your decisions. You must engage with them, talk to them, build empathy around shared decisions and shared memories, and essentially forgive yourself for lives you nearly had. It’s a thoughtful, poignant exploration of identity.
Gameplay strikes a perfect balance: resource gathering, base expansion, and planning the imminent path of your rotating habitat against the blazing sun. No enemies. No weapons. The planet’s harsh environment is challenge enough - intense storms, crushing heat, and unforgiving terrain keep your pulse racing without pulling a trigger. I love that the threat is not aliens or robots - it’s existential.
And mechanically, it’s solid - base management and resource loops feel polished and satisfying. But the real heart lies in the narrative and emotional resonance. The voice acting is strong, the dialogue feels real, and the writing delves into memory, regret, and self-discovery. The visuals, too, are lush and arresting in their alien beauty.
My only critique? It’s possible - and probably intended - that you'll have to replay to unlock every alter. One playthrough only scratches the surface of branching possibilities - so if you’re the kind of player who jumps in for 10‑15 hours and chats to yourself, this game rewards that.
The Alters is a deeply thoughtful and innovative indie sci-fi game. It challenges the typical clone-and-survive trope by making its thematic heart about personal growth, memory, and acceptance - while delivering polished mechanics, survival tension, and emotional heft. Highly recommended.
Final verdict: 9/10
