When Survios announced they were working on an Alien VR game, many fans of the franchise responded with intrigue; so much of the Alien experience is about being immersed in one’s fears and what better way to do so than in virtual reality. Could a quality VR experience from a company specializing in the medium bring to life the terror of the Xenomorph in a new way?
Still, many lamented that the game would be locked on a VR platform rather than coming to consoles or PC. But I’d argue that while completely understandable, such concerns suffer from faulty assumptions.
First, there’s the assumption that the game was shifted to a VR exclusive rather than a broader release. There is a LOT being published in the Alien narrative universe as we get closer to the release of Alien: Romulus, and more in development including the sequel to Aliens: Fireteam Elite, which will be released on all major platforms. The idea that Alien: Rogue Incursion is replacing what would otherwise be a console and PC game isn’t supported by evidence.
Survios is the world’s leading virtual reality gaming developer. Alien: Rogue Incursion is a product specifically pitched, produced, and marketed for VR; this isn’t a game that would otherwise be made. It’s actually a good thing that we’re getting Alien in VR; it’s perfect for this format.
The second assumption is that a dedicated VR game is bad for the franchise and for fans. I recognized VR games don’t sell well and that the platform isn’t for everyone. However, Alien: Rogue Incursion doesn’t have to reach sales numbers of typical video game releases to be successful; it simply has to sell better than typical VR games do in order to demonstrate it’s worth. And with the hype the game’s getting, combined with the dedicated and passionate fan base, it’s highly likely Alien: Rogue Incursion will do precisely that.
More games Alien games being made and available on the market at a time when the franchise is in the spotlight is good, not bad. This is precisely the moment to try something new, when the most eyes and wallets are directed at the franchise rather than waiting till the franchise levels off or even declines in the years ahead.
As Alien fans, we’re a passionate bunch and hate missing out on the precious few experiences we get with our favorite franchise; but for the love of Ripley, please stop bashing Alien: Rogue Incursion because it’s getting released in an experimental format. If it’s successful, the franchise gains further traction and more gaming opportunities will become available in the future.
Featured Image: Survios, 20th Century Studios
David Lasby is the Editor-in-Chief for Boss Rush Network. His favorite video games are The Legend of Zelda, Metroid, and the Aliens franchise. You can find him on Twitter to talk all things Nintendo, sci-fi / fantasy, and creative writing.
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