The Alters Launches on PC: A New Survival Story Unfolds
The Alters, developed by the renowned studio 11 bit studios, was officially released for PC on June 13, 2025. Known for narrative-driven games like Frostpunk and This War of Mine, the studio now presents a bold sci-fi experience that focuses on survival, identity, and choice.
This new title offers more than a traditional survival game. It dives deep into human psychology and alternate life paths, all wrapped in an engaging strategy format.
A Fresh Take on Sci-Fi Survival
The game follows Jan Dolski, a lone worker stranded on a dangerous alien planet. After a shipwreck, Jan finds himself racing against time. However, he gains access to experimental technology that allows him to create alternate versions of himself—called Alters.
Each Alter is shaped by a different life decision Jan could have made. As a result, some are confident and capable, while others are troubled or emotionally distant. These unique personalities not only help drive the story but also affect gameplay choices throughout the journey.
What Makes It Different
Unlike many survival games, The Alters centers on emotional tension and moral complexity. Players don’t just gather resources or build shelters. Instead, they must build relationships with their Alters, earn their trust, and manage how the team functions.
Moreover, the dynamic environment adds an extra layer of urgency. The planet rotates, meaning one side is in constant daylight while the other freezes in darkness. Players must move their mobile base to avoid extreme conditions, all while keeping the crew alive.
Key Gameplay Mechanics
To fully understand what The Alters brings to the table, let’s break down its main features:
- Narrative Choices: Every decision shapes relationships and influences the outcome. What you say to each Alter matters.
- Resource and Time Management: Food, energy, and building materials must be carefully monitored. Additionally, each task takes valuable time.
- Mobile Base Building: The game features a large, moving base with customizable modules. This base is essential for survival and crafting.
- Multiple Endings: Depending on how you interact with the Alters and manage the crisis, different endings are possible.
These mechanics come together to create a rich, thoughtful experience. Players must plan ahead, but also react emotionally to changing events.
Immersive Presentation
Visually, The Alters is powered by Unreal Engine. This allows for impressive lighting effects and a detailed alien world. The atmosphere is both beautiful and isolating, perfectly matching the game’s themes.
In addition, the audio design deserves special mention. The background score is minimal but haunting. Voice acting adds depth to the Alters, making each feel like a distinct individual.
PC System Requirements
Before jumping into the game, here’s what your PC needs to run The Alters smoothly:
Minimum Requirements:
- OS: Windows 10 64-bit
- CPU: Intel Core i5-8400 or AMD Ryzen 5 2600
- RAM: 8 GB
- GPU: NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1060 / AMD Radeon RX 580
- Storage: 40 GB available space
Recommended Requirements:
- OS: Windows 11 64-bit
- CPU: Intel Core i7-10700 or AMD Ryzen 7 3700X
- RAM: 16 GB
- GPU: NVIDIA RTX 3060 / AMD RX 6700 XT
- Storage: SSD with 40 GB free space
If you want to enjoy the game with smooth frame rates and high visual settings, the recommended setup is strongly advised.
Final Thoughts
The Alters is more than just a survival game—it’s a story about identity, regret, and the consequences of every choice we make. The relationship-based mechanics, coupled with intense survival elements, create a game that feels both intimate and grand in scale.
For players looking for a thought-provoking title in 2025, The Alters is a top contender. It proves that video games can be both emotionally rich and strategically challenging.
