Atmosfar Launches into Early Access on October 29
The sci-fi survival game Atmosfar enters Early Access on October 29, featuring flying islands, dual airship systems, and a roadmap for future content.
The open-world sci-fi survival game Atmosfar releases into Early Access on October 29. The launch will include two initial regions for players to explore.
Atmosfar is set on a world of floating islands. Players, referred to as Vagabonds by developer Apog Labs, must scavenge scrap to engineer and upgrade flying vessels. The game will remain in Early Access for at least nine months, with the potential for extension based on player engagement. A roadmap promises the addition of a third and final region, a fourth breed of Wasp airship, and more building options for the mobile Cloud Cruiser base during this period.
Airship systems define player progression
Atmosfar's gameplay is built around two broad airship types: the agile Wasp and the mobile Cloud Cruiser. Each serves a specialized role. The Wasp is constructed in four different classes, each with a unique appearance, abilities, and aerodynamics. The initial launch includes three of these breeds.
The developers summarized the system by stating, "It's all about bringing the right Wasp for the job." The larger Cloud Cruiser acts as a mobile airbase, complete with landing pads, a hangar for Wasps and fuel, and a lounge area that can be furnished. Up to four players can cooperate in multiplayer, bringing their airbase along for the journey. The interplay between the nimble Wasps and the mothership Cloud Cruiser has been compared to the vehicle symbiosis found in Subnautica.
Developer background and player identity
The game is developed by Apog Labs, a studio led by Olof Kindblad and previously known for the tycoon management game Airport CEO. This background in simulation informs Atmosfar's systems. The studio's decision to brand its players as 'Vagabonds' follows a trend of community identity labeling seen in other live-service games, though this particular term has received some criticism from observers.
Influences and comparisons in the aerial survival space
Atmosfar enters a niche with a mixed history. It draws obvious inspiration from the flying islands of The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom. It also follows in the wake of ill-fated projects like the aerial MMO Worlds Adrift. Other comparable games in development, such as Lost Skies, Everwind, and Aloft, have yet to achieve mainstream breakout success. Visual previews of Atmosfar's islands, with their rounded mountains and forest canopies sitting elegantly among heaped clouds, have been praised, with some calling it their favourite-looking sky island game. The development process aims to build on these past attempts, focusing on player feedback to refine the experience during its Early Access period.
The roadmap is clear. Over Early Access, a third and final region will be added, along with a fourth Wasp breed and expanded Cloud Cruiser building options.
