Fallout fans may want to keep an eye out for this upcoming post-apocalyptic RPG which enters PC early access next month.
Pioner is an upcoming post-apocalyptic game that blends elements of games like Fallout, Stalker, and the Metro series.
It’s set in a “haunting, alternative-reality world where Soviet-era structures lie abandoned on a desolate, post-apocalyptic island,” where you must scavenge to survive across a massive open world map.
Pioner is intended as an online experience, and features PvP and PvE elements where pretty much anything that moves could pose a threat to you.
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According to Pioner’s developer, GFA Games, “realism takes priority over traditional health bars or character levels,” hinting at a bigger focus on minimal UI elements and less ‘gamey’ mechanics.
Interestingly, some of the marketing material released so far does indeed feature health bars and progression features, so I’m not quite sure what it means by that.
Pioner’s map is a sprawling “50+ kilometers”, where players “can explore a world rich with mystery and danger, encountering story quests and faction missions that influence relationships and loyalty rewards.”
Pioner is Stalker meets Metro
“The islands are sinking into darkness. With each blue tide, we lose more and more lives. It's time to rectify this and attack the hidden enemy,” reads the official description for Pioner.
“In Pioner, special attention is paid to the events, factions and quests in which you will take part. Play as a mercenary, a bandit, a caravan guard, an explorer, or a pioneer - the range of roles is extremely extensive and will help you become a full participant in a variety of events across the archipelago.
“Team up with other adventurers and act as a group. Together with your comrades you can go on a long journey to the vast expanses of the Shadowlands or raid closed dungeons. You will explore anomalies, confront hunters from other factions and run special missions. There's enough work for everyone.”
If you’d like to check it out soon, worry not, as Pioner launches into Steam Early Access on 16 December, 2025.
Pioner will be sold in two editions: Standard and Deluxe. The former includes only the base game, while the latter includes a unique Renegade armour design, a weapon skin for assault rifles, an exclusive Founder title to use in multiplayer, a cosmetic “Creepy Charm” weapon accessory, and a Katana Watch gadget which features a retro-futuristic style.
There will also be 500 Efritanium Crystals thrown in for all Deluxe Edition owners, which is essentially Pioner’s own premium currency which will allow you to buy items and cosmetics from the in-game store.
Pioner’s early access date is only confirmed for PC yet. GFA Games has got console versions on PlayStation and Xbox planned, but no news regarding a launch on those platforms has been announced.