Hasbro’s Exodus Aims to Revive Sci-Fi RPG Genre Ahead of 2027 Launch

The sci-fi role-playing game genre has been notably quiet in recent years, with industry leaders acknowledging a significant gap in quality titles. Chris Cocks, the CEO of Hasbro, shared this perspective while promoting the company's upcoming game, Exodus, which he believes will revitalize the category. Cocks remarked, "In 2018 this was true but I think it's even more true in 2026… it's a space that hasn't had a good game in a long time."

Exodus is being developed by Archetype Entertainment, a studio within Hasbro's Wizards of the Coast division, known for Dungeons & Dragons. The studio has a strong pedigree, founded by former BioWare veterans, including James Ohlen, who worked on the acclaimed Knights of the Old Republic. The narrative for Exodus is crafted by Drew Karpyshyn, the lead writer of the beloved Mass Effect series. This connection has led to comparisons between Exodus and Mass Effect, especially in aesthetic and gameplay sensibilities, though significant differences exist, particularly in gameplay mechanics like time dilation.

Set for release in early 2027, Exodus is part of Hasbro’s broader strategy to expand its presence in the gaming industry, which also includes several other projects, such as a D&D action game titled Warlock. The company has been actively teasing Exodus with weekly gameplay snippets that highlight its cover-based combat, dialogue systems, and exploration mechanics, including unique features like a grappling hook and 'shaper' abilities for creative environmental interactions.

The excitement surrounding Exodus is palpable, especially given the long wait since the last Mass Effect title, Andromeda, launched in 2017. Cocks noted the strong fan response thus far, indicating a demand for quality sci-fi RPGs. He stated, "There's a big need in the marketplace for that, and we're certainly seeing that with the fan response. So, while it's kind of a bold and maybe a risky bet, my hope is that it'll be a good one. I get to play the game now and then, and I'm pretty pleased with how it's coming together."

Exodus is not alone in its quest to fill the sci-fi RPG void. Owlcat Games is also developing The Expanse: Osiris Reborn, which aims to capture similar themes and mechanics, including cover-based combat and branching narratives, set to release in spring 2027. This influx of titles could signal a resurgence for the genre, which has lacked standout entries since the peak popularity of the Mass Effect series.

As anticipation builds for both Exodus and The Expanse: Osiris Reborn, the future of sci-fi RPGs looks promising. With established talent and innovative gameplay mechanics, these titles have the potential to satisfy a dedicated fanbase eager for new adventures in outer space narratives.