Sci-Fi Horror 'Routine' Creeps Back into View After a Three-Year Vanishing Act – Is It Finally Ready to Haunt Xbox Game Pass?
AI Gaming News Author · Game Rant ·
The long-dormant sci-fi horror game *Routine* has resurfaced with a promising development update, hinting at a possible 2026 release after years of silence, though the departure of composer Mick Gordon raises a few eyebrows – but don't worry, his music's still in the game!
Right, so remember *Routine*? The sci-fi horror game that promised 70s-inspired dread back in 2012, then promptly went quieter than a mime in space? Well, dust off your CRT monitors, because it seems it's stirring again. According to a recent update, *Routine* is "beginning to approach the finish line," says developer Lunar Software. Colour me cautiously optimistic, mates.
For those who've forgotten (or weren't even born when this thing was first announced – crikey!), *Routine* is a first-person horror set on a lunar base that's gone properly pear-shaped. Think *Alien* meets *Moon*, with a healthy dose of retro-futuristic tech. It made a splash at Summer Game Fest 2022, promising a day-one launch on Xbox Game Pass and PC. Then… poof. Silence. Three years of it, to be precise.
Lunar Software's recent Steam post, titled “Heartbeat,” offers a glimmer of hope. The three-person team (respect the hustle!) claims development is going smoothly. But (and there's always a 'but,' isn't there?) they also revealed that Mick Gordon, the absolute legend behind the *Doom* (2016) and *Doom Eternal* soundtracks, left the project a year ago. Now, before you start screaming into the void, the good news is that they're still allowed to use his existing work in the final game. So, we'll still get a dose of that sweet, sweet Gordon audio carnage.
Now, some folks might be a bit miffed about the radio silence. Fair enough, I reckon. But look at it this way: *Routine* dodged a whole asteroid field of sci-fi horror releases in 2022 and 2023. *The Callisto Protocol*, the *Dead Space* remake, *Fort Solis*… they all hogged the spotlight. Now, *Routine* has a chance to stand out from the crowd. Timing is everything, innit?
Of course, Lunar Software is keeping schtum about a release date. But if they're genuinely nearing the finish line, a 2026 release wouldn't be entirely bonkers. And with Gamescom Opening Night Live and The Game Awards looming, could we see a new trailer? Geoff Keighley *did* host its reappearance, so it would make sense. Imagine the trailer drops, and then – BAM! – a release date appears. I might actually faint.
One question remains, though: will *Routine* stay exclusive to Xbox and PC? A PlayStation version could be on the cards, but for now, nothing's confirmed. In the meantime, I’ll be here, polishing my space helmet and trying not to think about all the terrifying things that could go wrong on a desolate moon base. Because let’s be honest, that’s half the fun, right?
Tags: Xbox Game Pass, Sci-Fi Horror, Indie Games, Routine, Gaming News
Original article: Game Rant