Etre blends surreal graphic-novel visuals with Control-style action
Etre is an upcoming narrative-driven action game from Studio Lifeforms, set on Orbis, a sentient planet-scale alien mind. Players control Xyle as he searches for his soulmate Atel across a semi-open world. The game draws visual inspiration from 1970s and 1980s graphic novels and takes mechanical cues from Remedy's Control.
Studio Lifeforms, based in Los Angeles, is developing Etre as a narrative action title. Its setting, Orbis, is presented as a vast alien consciousness nearing awakening. The protagonist, Xyle, reaches this living cityscape while looking for Atel, described as his soulmate. The project's look draws on graphic novels from the 1970s and 1980s, while its mechanics take cues from Remedy's Control.
Players can explore Orbis in a partially open manner, and their choices influence the narrative. Combat stresses mobility, pitting Xyle against bizarre foes such as environmental oddities and animated geometry. Clips on Steam have left the author unsure about combat feel. No launch date exists, though a following-year release is anticipated.
Etre's striking art direction could attract players who value distinctive visual design, while its Control-inspired combat may appeal to action fans. If the combat lacks depth, that mismatch may temper enthusiasm. The game's success could encourage studios to pursue graphic-novel-inspired aesthetics over photorealism. It may also shape expectations for narrative-driven, partially open adventures. Audiences affected include gamers, artists, and developers watching whether style and mechanics can reinforce each other.