After more than ten years of waiting, *Routine* was finally unveiled in its entirety at gamescom 2025—and it appeared highly promising. [Lunar Software](https://lunar-software.squarespace.com/), the small team from the UK behind this project, provided players with an authentic glimpse into the intersection of meticulous design, uncompromising aesthetic choices, and sheer suspense within a digital lunar desolation.

Months of conjecture came to a close as the audience gained hands-on experience with a title that had remained elusive since its initial reveal in 2013—a development journey characterized by numerous engine transitions and an extensive period of silence, occasionally interrupted by steadfast updates and audience loyalty. Despite such a convoluted history, the team seems to have successfully captured the essence of the game. If the demo is any indication, *Routine* promises to be a horror experience that is definitely worth exploring.

For those who haven’t tracked the game over the last ten years, *Routine* focuses on survival within a deserted lunar facility. Even with a familiar concept, Lunar Software has succeeded in crafting something that feels refreshing, unique, and strangely retro simultaneously. As our gameplay session commenced, the ambiance was tangible—each corridor and room radiated with retro-analogue vibes inspired by a 1980s futuristic vision.

[The VHS aesthetic](https://www.cgmagonline.com/review/hardware/cloneralliance-box-pro-pocket-capture-card/) functions not just as a visual theme but also saturates every element, from the audio landscape to the physical tech players engage with in their fight for survival. The level of authenticity throughout the game is outstanding. Listening to the developers discuss their commitment to achieving the analogue appearance was impressive, and the final product speaks volumes.

Players take on the role of a lone investigator, exploring *Routine*’s moonbase armed only with the Cosmonaut Assistance Tool (CAT) and their instincts. In contrast to many contemporary horror games, *Routine* completely removes conventional UI elements, instead relying on comprehensive awareness and intuitive environmental cues to enhance immersion. Everything from saving progress to engaging with terminals is managed via the in-game interface—there are no menus that disrupt the experience. We’ve witnessed similar design philosophies in *[Dead Space](https://www.cgmagonline.com/tag/dead-space/)*, but *Routine* elevates this approach. There’s no digital assistance or glowing indicators; it’s all about understanding how the world operates, not just the game itself.

Consequently, the experience is uniquely challenging, requiring players to be attentive to background sounds, analogue error logs, and the faint flicker of damaged displays to detect hazards or find clues.

This dedication to immersion is also reflected in *Routine*’s threat mechanics. Instead of filling the base with predictable foes, the game utilizes an intricate network of robotic predators. Observing the gameplay, *Routine*’s systems feel like a fusion of *[Alien: Isolation](https://www.cgmagonline.com/review/game/alien-isolation-review/)* and *[Resident Evil](https://www.cgmagonline.com/tag/resident-evil/)*, all presented with a remarkable retro-futuristic flair. The system discourages hasty escape attempts, instead nurturing a growing tension that persists well beyond an encounter.

### “In contrast to many contemporary horror games, *Routine* completely removes conventional UI elements, opting for full-body awareness and intuitive environmental hints to enhance immersion.”

During the session I experienced, even with limited time, running was often recommended as the optimal method to navigate past the robots obstructing our route. Nonetheless, players have the freedom to explore and adapt tactics to match their playing style. However, it was emphasized that confronting these enemies directly every time is not the intended approach.

The level of intricacy and creativity showcased is impressive—all the more remarkable considering the size of Lunar Software. Situated in Manchester, the studio comprises merely three core members, an intimacy that enhances *Routine*’s handcrafted quality. One developer revealed that his home is filled with analogue technology, which directly shapes the game’s unique visual flair.

Every corridor and shadow is meticulously crafted to evoke not only isolation but also the tactile terror stemming from malfunctioning technology and looming mechanical threats. The team has been candid about their aversion to shortcuts, with design decisions such as the absence of a traditional UI and the careful integration of mechanical puzzles standing as a testament to their design ethos.

I left my session with *Routine* feeling very enthusiastic. Scheduled to launch in late 2025 for PC—via Steam—and Xbox consoles, with day-one access on Xbox Game Pass, this is a game that genre enthusiasts absolutely MUST experience. For fans, this long-anticipated affirmation provides not just closure to years of speculation but also a renewed incentive to immerse themselves in a narrative that has stayed true to its roots and its intent to unsettle through.