Introduction

Owlcat Games (https://owlcat.games/) offered fans an in-depth look behind the scenes of The Expanse: Osiris Reborn (Steam Page) and its depiction of life in space in a new developer diary revealed during the Golden Joystick Awards. In collaboration with former NASA astronaut and ISS commander Leroy Chiao, the studio worked to strike the right balance between realism and playability.

Watch the Official Trailer

(*Archival spaceflight footage courtesy of former NASA astronaut Leroy Chiao)

Details & Information

The Expanse: Osiris Reborn is based on the bestselling book series and TV show. The franchise is renowned for its “hard science-fiction” approach, weaving real scientific theories and practices into its worldbuilding.

To accurately portray the realities of living in space—while still delivering a compelling gameplay experience—Owlcat partnered with Leroy Chiao, integrating his real-life experience as an astronaut into the game’s systems and character behaviors. Details such as how astronauts move, breathe, and even eat in space helped shape the game’s authenticity.

For instance, astronauts often prefer spicy food due to the reduced sense of taste caused by long periods in microgravity. This realistic detail is incorporated into the game, with characters showing a clear preference for fiery meals.

At the same time, gameplay required certain adjustments. Real astronauts depend on tethers when operating outside spacecraft; however, Owlcat opted for magnetic boots as a more enjoyable and visually intuitive solution for players.

Combat also required a hybrid approach. Ballistics behave differently in zero-g, and in real space, sound is nearly non-existent. But because satisfying audio feedback is crucial for action gameplay, the team introduced a mixture of muffled sound, subtle vibrations, breathing audio cues, and radio static—maintaining immersion while keeping combat engaging.

Additional Insights

Fans can expect more details about The Expanse: Osiris Reborn in the coming months.

The game will launch on:

• PC via Steam: Steam Page
• Epic Games Store: Epic Store Page
• GOG: GOG Page
• Xbox Series X|S: Xbox Page
• PlayStation 5: PlayStation Page

Fans can wishlist the game now on their preferred platform.

Conclusion

By working alongside a real astronaut, Owlcat Games ensures that The Expanse: Osiris Reborn stays true to the franchise’s legacy of grounded science fiction while still delivering an exciting, player-friendly experience. With its blend of authenticity and accessibility, the game offers fans a deeply immersive vision of life in space.

—Official Press Release