Don’t Nod has announced Aphelion, a new third-person science-fiction survival game coming in 2026. It’s set to launch on PlayStation 5, Xbox, and PC via Steam and Microsoft Store. Even better, it’ll also be included on Game Pass at launch.
Set in the distant future, Aphelion follows astronaut Ariane Montclair as she fights to survive on Persephone, a newly discovered icy planet. After a crash landing, she becomes separated from her partner, Thomas Cross, and begins a tense journey across an unfamiliar and hostile world to find him. The story blends personal emotion with large-scale science fiction, and it’s being developed with input from the European Space Agency (ESA).
Yes, this isn’t your average sci-fi action game. Don’t Nod is leaning hard into realistic survival and grounded exploration, far from anything full of laser guns or alien wars.
“Aphelion is a game we’re very passionate about, something we’re pushing ourselves creatively on… and to be able to do it in collaboration with the European Space Agency is incredibly exciting and special for us,” said creative director Florent Guillaume.
No weapons, no war, just survival
Set in the year 2060, Earth has become uninhabitable, forcing humanity to search for a new home. Persephone, an unexplored ninth planet, becomes the next hope. The Hope 01 mission, led by Ariane and Thomas, was sent by the ESA to see if the planet can support life.
But things don’t go as planned. After the crash, Ariane must explore the frozen terrain using only a few tools: a grappling hook to move around, an oxygen tank to manage her breath, and a pathfinder to guide her steps. There’s no traditional combat. Survival depends on observation, smart movement, and dealing with nature’s dangers. Every decision matters, and there’s always a risk of failure.
Emotional story, shifting planet
What makes Aphelion unique is its focus on the emotional bond between the two lead characters. As Ariane explores Persephone, she reflects on their relationship and what they’ve gone through. The connection between survival and memory drives the story forward.
The planet itself is also key to the experience. Persephone is more than just ice and storms it changes over time. It’s filled with surreal and mysterious events, some of which bend the laws of nature. It’s a place that feels alive, yet completely unfamiliar.
Key features
- A realistic approach to space travel and planetary survival
- Third-person exploration with a focus on stealth and resource management
- No guns or combat, just smart tools and careful planning
- A narrative shaped by the emotional journey of two astronauts
- Developed with scientific input from the European Space Agency
- Available on Game Pass, PS5, Xbox, and PC (via Steam and Microsoft Store)
According to ESA’s Nadia Luders, Aphelion aims to inspire players by combining real science with creative imagination, showing what the future of space exploration might look like, and how human resilience plays a role in it.
With a release planned for 2026, Aphelion is shaping up to be one of the most grounded and emotionally rich sci-fi survival games we’ve seen. If you’re into atmospheric exploration, realistic survival mechanics, or simply want a break from typical action-heavy space games, this is one to watch.
You can wishlist Aphelion now on Steam or the Microsoft Store, and stay tuned for more updates as the mission to Persephone continues.
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