Fragmentary Order is shaping up to be the next major player in the hardcore sci-fi extraction shooter market. Led by Escape from Tarkov creator Nikita Buyanov, the project aims to push the boundaries of difficulty and tension. While the genre has seen a rise in more accessible titles recently, Buyanov intends to keep the stakes high.
Rejecting the "Casual" Approach
Unlike some recent entries like Arc Raiders, which many see as a more relaxed take on the genre, Fragmentary Order will not be playing it safe. When asked by GamesBeat if Arc Raiders provided any inspiration, Buyanov was blunt: "It’s an extraction shooter for casual people. It’s not an option for us."
Instead, the developer is aiming for extreme tension. Buyanov stated his goal is to create "the most painful, most challenging, and most rewarding experience" possible. This suggests a heavy reliance on the punishing gameplay loops found in his work with Tarkov at Battlestate Games.
Survival, Simulation, and Chaos
While players might find moments of peace, they shouldn't expect a friendly environment. The vision for Fragmentary Order focuses on a world that simulates reality, drawing potential inspiration from the all-or-nothing approach seen in Marathon, particularly regarding intense locations like the Cryo Archive map.
Players can expect several key gameplay pillars:
- Surviving unpredictable dynamic events within locations.
- Managing essential survival tasks, such as finding shelter.
- Navigating a world where player interaction is never guaranteed.
While combat isn't forced, players must prepare for the inherent danger of the landscape. "You can try [to be friendly]. That’s your call. But we’re trying to simulate reality," Buyanov explained. He noted that while you might need to work with others, the threat of violence is always present: "We won’t force people to fight. But people will fight."
Ultimately, the goal is to keep the focus on the most engaging aspects of the genre: intense gunplay and navigating detailed, dangerous maps.
