Crafting a Relatable Sci-Fi Horror World in Routine, Out Today on Xbox

Xbox Wire
Thu, 04 Dec 2025 15:00:00 +0000

Routine is now available on PC, Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, and Xbox Cloud, including Xbox Game Pass. Set on an abandoned lunar base, the game emphasizes relatable sci-fi design and immersive gameplay by minimizing UI elements. Inspired by a 1980s vision of the future, it features familiar objects to enhance believability. The game builds tension without jump scares, focusing on environmental storytelling. A new launch trailer showcases the horrors players will encounter.

2025-12-05 | The Verge: 13 years later, the bold and terrifying sci-fi game Routine is finally here

Routine, a sci-fi horror game from Lunar Software, has finally been released on Steam and Xbox after 13 years of development. The game emphasizes diegetic design, requiring players to engage deeply with its immersive lunar base environment without traditional UI elements. The team, led by Aaron Foster and Jemma Hughes, faced numerous challenges, including health issues and financial struggles, but ultimately revived the project with support from publisher Raw Fury.

2025-12-06 | Eurogamer: Cracking sci-fi horror Routine escapes a decade of development hell as a great reminder that patronising game design can do one

Routine, developed by Lunar Software and published by Raw Fury, is a first-person sci-fi horror game now available on Xbox and PC. After a decade in development, it emphasizes player initiative and exploration, reminiscent of older game design. Set in a retro-futuristic lunar resort, it features a unique Cosmonaut Assistance Tool for gameplay mechanics. The game effectively builds tension through its AI enemies and encourages players to engage deeply with its environment, creating a rewarding experience.