Aphelion (video game)

Aphelion is a linear, third-person action-adventure video game with elements commonly found in stealth games.^[1] Set in the 2060s, Earth is becoming uninhabitable. The European Space Agency discovers a new planet known as Persephone. They enlist two astronauts, Ariane and Thomas, to scout Persephone to determine humanity's new hope. When a mysterious entity lifeform named the Nemesis hunts the pair, they must find a way to survive the uncharted planet. The game will have 11 chapters.^[2] The two playable characters have distinctly different gameplay. Ariana is physically capable and her segments of the game are designed to be more action-oriented with a focus on traversal and platforming, while Thomas' segments focus more on survival and investigation.^[3][4]

The game was developed by Don't Nod, particularly the team that created Tell Me Why. It was also developed in collaboration with the European Space Agency. The planet Persephone was inspired by Planet Nine, and the team was influenced by science fiction movies such as Interstellar, The Martian, Ad Astra and Arrival.^[5] Unlike Jusant, a climbing game also developed by Don't Nod, traversal in the game was designed to be accessible for players. However, encounters with the Nemesis were designed to be challenging, with the team being inspired by the Alien franchise.^[6]

It was formally revealed during the Xbox Game Showcase in July 2025.^[7] The game was released on 28 April 2026 for PlayStation 5, Windows and Xbox Series X and Series S digitally, while the physical version is set to be released on July 2.^[8]

Summarize Fact Check

Aphelion received "mixed or average" reviews from critics, according to review aggregator Metacritic.^[9][10][11] OpenCritic determined that 33% of critics recommended the game.^[12]