Imagine stepping into a procedural open-world survival craft game as an early-nineteenth-century explorer. You’re stranded in a strange new world where wildlife is oversized, Neanderthals still exist, and curses are real. It sounds like the fever dream of a 19th-century adventure novel, but it’s all part of Under a Rock, the upcoming game from Nordic Trolls Co. This survival craft game for 1-10 players is built using Unreal Engine 5, promising a visually stunning and immersive experience.
Whether you want to unveil its secrets, build an expansive base, or tame creatures, Under a Rock delivers a unique blend of exploration, crafting, and survival. As the title heads towards an anticipated 2024 early access release date, let's take a closer look at why this game could redefine the genre.
The release date for Under a Rock is still under wraps, but the game is confirmed for early access in 2024. Developers have been transparent about their process, with Nordic Trolls emphasising the importance of community feedback. They’ve stated that “Early access is not yet open” but hinted at regular updates during this phase. The team aims to refine mechanics and add content based on input from players. This approach ensures a collaborative evolution, giving gamers a direct role in shaping the final product.
The procedurally generated world makes each playthrough different, enhancing replayability. This isn’t just an open-world survival craft game; it’s a living, breathing adventure where every choice matters. Want a simple life by the ocean, or do you prefer making enemies out of the natives? You decide.
The procedural nature of the game doesn’t mean it skimps on detail. Each biome is filled with its own unique challenges, from dark caves and treacherous cliffs to lush jungles. Players can expect unpredictable weather, roaming predators, and hidden traps. These elements, combined with the dynamic AI, keep every session fresh.
In Under a Rock, you play as an early-nineteenth-century explorer who’s discovered a hidden world unlike anything imagined. Here, evolution has taken a different evolutionary path, creating an ecosystem teeming with fantastical creatures. From oversized Dodos to mythical beasts, the island’s inhabitants are as enchanting as they are dangerous.
The survival mechanics are nuanced yet approachable. While hunger and hydration bars exist, they’re designed to reward attentive players rather than punish casual ones. Bonus buffs come from how expansive your base is and how many small decorative items you can place. These features offer a more strategic approach to survival, where comfort and aesthetics can provide an edge.
Base-building is one of the standout mechanics in Under a Rock. It offers a huge choice of assets to make your dream home. There’s no limit as to how expansive your base can be, and the addition of decorative items you can place enhances customisation. Players can switch between real-time and ghost-building modes. If disaster strikes, blueprints can be saved, allowing you to rebuild with ease.
The multiplayer aspect ensures the experience is never lonely. Whether you’re building with friends or showing off your creations, the game’s collaborative features stand out. A survival craft game for 1-10 players means you can share the adventure with your closest mates—or face the wilds solo if you prefer.
In this procedurally generated world, the creatures aren’t just threats—they’re opportunities. Players can tame, breed, and ride a variety of creatures. Tamed creatures come with different useful abilities that might be beneficial when exploring the island. Need to traverse a cliff or cross a dense forest quickly? Saddle up on a giant bee or glide down with a friendly Dodo.
These interactions go beyond utility. The game’s ecosystem feels alive, with each animal offering its own quirks and advantages. This blend of cute but lethal creatures adds depth, ensuring every encounter feels meaningful.
Exploring the island is a joy thanks to the game’s diverse movement options. You’re not limited to walking—Under a Rock includes gliding, rock movement via grappling, climbing, swimming, and even diving. These mechanics make every environment accessible and exciting, from dark caves to underwater treasure troves.
The traversal isn’t just practical; it’s strategic. Players must manage stamina while gliding or climbing, while the grappling hook requires skill to master. Whether soaring above the treetops or diving into sunken ruins, exploration is designed to keep you on the edge of your seat.
The character creator that offers a diverse number of customisation options ensures you can create your own unique looks. Whether you want a rugged explorer or a glam adventurer, the toolset is robust enough to bring your vision to life.
Players can further personalise their journey with unlockable gear and seasonal items. These touches make every avatar feel like an extension of the player, enhancing immersion and fun.
If you think of Pixar crossed with Jean-Michel Basquiat, you’re getting close to the aesthetic of Under a Rock. Its bold, colourful style blends whimsy with sophistication, much like Blondie’s Parallel Lines. Developers have likened the graphics to CGI films, a nod to their ambition to elevate the survival genre visually.
The world is designed to captivate, with vistas that feel alive and textured. Whether you’re navigating dark caves or watching the sunset over a glittering ocean, the game’s visuals leave a lasting impression.
The team at Nordic Trolls isn’t just building a game—they’re cultivating a community. Platforms like Discord play a significant role, offering a space for fans to share ideas, feedback, and excitement. The developers have emphasised the importance of community feedback, ensuring the game evolves with player input.
The planned 2024 early access launch is just the beginning. Regular updates will introduce new features, biomes, and creatures, keeping the experience fresh. As the game grows, so will its potential for creativity and adventure.
Under a Rock is shaping up to be a landmark title in the open-world survival craft genre. Its combination of procedural design, innovative traversal mechanics, and vibrant visuals offers something truly unique. Whether you’re drawn to taming creatures, building bases, or exploring an untamed island, this game promises an unforgettable journey.
With a release date set for 2024 early access, now’s the perfect time to join the conversation. Add Under a Rock to your wishlist, hop on the Discord, and get ready to turn over a new leaf—or in this case, a new rock. Adventure awaits!
