After more than twelve years in development, the space-adventuring roguelike Approaching Infinity has officially launched out of early access. Created by micro-indie developer Ibology, this massive turn-based sandbox game draws heavy inspiration from classic Star Trek, offering players a chance to boldly explore the galaxy at their own pace.
Approaching Infinity joins the recent wave of impressive indie roguelike releases, following closely on the heels of the celebrated ‘final’ version of Caves Of Qud (though additional content is still planned for that title). This period represents a bountiful time for enthusiasts of traditional roguelike experiences.
Customisation and Crew Management
The game places players in the role of a highly customisable captain commanding an equally modular ship. Gameplay revolves around assembling a diverse crew of specialists and support staff who keep exploration missions running smoothly and prevent critical systems like the reactor from failing. Players can survey planets, solve various problems, explore shipwrecks, and encounter an array of alien species with varying attitudes toward your presence.
In a clever nod to Star Trek traditions, Approaching Infinity implements a “redshirt” mechanic for dangerous away missions. When the captain or an important officer would normally perish during planetside exploration, an expendable (and posthumously honoured) crewmember instead takes the fatal blow. This mechanic serves as a humorous reminder that proper introduction of oneself and one’s specialised skills is essential before venturing into dangerous situations.
A Sandbox Galaxy to Explore
Similar to Caves of Qud, while Approaching Infinity does feature several end-game objectives (some of which can be completed in a single session), the experience is fundamentally designed as a sandbox for players to approach however they wish. Though each alien race and creature type maintains consistent behaviours across playthroughs, the universe itself is completely reshuffled with each new character. The game’s decade-plus development as a passion project has resulted in numerous quirky and fascinating discoveries waiting in the galaxy’s stranger regions.
The game doesn’t take itself too seriously, featuring numerous bizarre scenarios such as planets overrun by rapidly breeding carnivorous rabbits or haunted space-casinos patrolled by undead entities. Some sectors teem with ruthless space-mafia operations, while certain warrior species will continuously challenge players until they’ve been defeated enough times to reluctantly earn their respect.
Economy and Progression
Despite its futuristic setting, Approaching Infinity hasn’t reached a post-scarcity economy. Money remains the primary motivator throughout the galaxy, with players taking contracts from any species willing to pay. Income is supplemented by selling salvage and occasionally refurbishing and towing vessels that have been sufficiently damaged to remove their previous occupants. Financial progress serves as an effective measure of advancement throughout the game.
Approaching Infinity is now available on Steam for $18, and while it has received positive user reviews, it currently needs more ratings to achieve Steam’s coveted “Overwhelmingly Positive” distinction. For players who have recently completed Caves of Qud or Dwarf Fortress’ new adventure mode, this stellar roguelike offers an expansive new frontier to explore.