The Alters is a survival adventure game developed by 11 Bit Studios, known for their reputation in crafting titles that challenge players’ decision-making. It blends traditional survival mechanics with management elements that revolve around the player’s interactions with various clones of themselves. In this game, players take on the role of Jan Dolski, who finds himself stranded on a hostile planet and must keep a population of clones alive while attempting to find a way back home.
The journey begins as Jan wakes up on a dark beach, surrounded by an eerie environment filled with risks and limited resources. To survive, players need to gather materials by locating resource deposits and building a base using a time-based management system. The game introduces a unique element where players can create clones using an ethereal mineral called Rapidium, which accelerates growth. Each clone specializes in different tasks, allowing for efficient resource management and exploration of the planet.
As players navigate the challenges, they face tough decisions that impact both their survival and their clones’ happiness. While managing their time effectively to complete tasks before the radioactive sunrise, they must balance the needs and moods of their clones, who can bond with Jan’s decisions and question the morality of their sacrifices.
The game shines in its narrative, where the tensions between Jan and his clones create emotional depth, leading to significant moments of triumph or failure based on players’ choices. However, there are flaws in gameplay mechanics, such as tedious task completion and a heavy reliance on a single resource during exploration, which can detract from the overall experience.
Combat encounters and exploring dangerous environments further complicate the journey, introducing additional layers of tension. Despite its imperfections, The Alters delivers a compelling story about survival, moral choices, and the consequences of one’s actions, making it a memorable experience for players navigating Jan’s tumultuous adventure.
