Headlight Studio has announced the release date for the first Rooted alpha test. The developers have also revealed new details about the game, including the story and how it will unfold without getting in the way of players who just want to explore and survive in the post-apocalyptic world of Rooted.

Environmental storytelling

Rooted is set around the year 2100, after 80 years of government oppression and wars, humans were almost wiped out due to bacteriological weapons. Years later, nature is starting to take back the land. In the process, the overgrowth also neutralized some of the virus, making safe areas for ‌survivors to live. The developers wanted the game to have a strong narrative experience that was not hindered by the open-world nature of the game, and the solution is to enrich it with environmental storytelling: while exploring the map, you come across a variety of points of interests that tell the story of the old world.

Throughout the game, you will be able to visit different locations and gather new materials that will help you survive and upgrade your equipment. Some areas are still infected, and you will need to prepare themselves to deal with whatever is down there. 

Music is an important part of the game, depending on the area and intensity of the moment, the musical score will reflect the situation. The soundtrack for Rooted is composed by Manaberry. When going out on expeditions, you can find different media devices and songs to play in your base. For players who are interested and want a sneak peek of what to expect, you can listen to Rooted: Opening Titles.

The alpha test

The developers stated that the alpha in its current state is nowhere near the finished product. This test is aimed to improve and validate the key features, and therefore will not contain much gameplay. For ‌people who want a more complete version to sink their teeth into, the developers recommend waiting for the beta launch coming early next year.

If you are interested in behind-the-scenes stuff and want to help the game to be the best version of itself, you can apply for the closed alpha on their website. If you pledged during the Kickstarter campaign, you will also have access depending on the reward tier you chose. This alpha can take a few months, with new features coming over time. It will launch with the ability to play both solo and online right from the start.

The first closed alpha will start on Monday, September 4th at 2 PM CEST on Steam and Epic Games.

Have you applied for the alpha test?