Jump Space: A New Frontier in Cooperative Gaming
Independent studio Keepsake Games is proud to unveil its first title, Jump Space, now available on Steam Early Access and Xbox Game Preview. I had the opportunity to speak with Filip Coulianos, co-founder and game director, at Gamescom 2025. With a background at Hazelight Studios, Coulianos sheds light on this innovative first-person cooperative space adventure designed for teams of up to four players.
Gameplay Overview
In Jump Space, players embark on missions as part of a spaceship crew. The narrative revolves around humanity’s battle against rogue robots that have launched a galaxy-wide attack. Unique to this game is the approach to spaceship mechanics—players essentially manage and upgrade their ship jointly, much like a shared character in RPGs.
Mission Mechanics and Customization
Missions begin in the hangar, where players customize their avatars, select ship components, and pick a mission. Using the Unity engine, the game’s visuals may not be stunning, but it delivers a smooth gaming experience even in its early phase.
Intuitive Controls and Interactive Environment
Jump Space aims for accessibility, featuring easy-to-learn controls. Every spaceship component is represented physically, allowing players to interact with the ship actively. For instance, if the ship’s engine fails during a mission, players must promptly respond by repairing it. The game also includes a strategic power grid system where players must efficiently manage space for ship components, balancing firepower and mobility.
Seamless Space Navigation
The game boasts impressive fluidity between inside and outside the spaceship. Players can comfortably float in zero gravity by detaching from the ship and can effortlessly board other vessels while flying. The addition of a grappling hook allows for easy movement across surfaces, enhancing exploration and navigation.
Current Content and Future Plans
While Jump Space currently offers a more limited content range, it provides an enjoyable experience. The initial price point is set at $19.99, which may increase as development progresses based on feedback and feature additions throughout the early access period. Players can look forward to further developments, including expanded missions, additional ship types, and enhanced player customization.
Mission Features and Randomization
Missions are procedurally generated, ensuring no two play sessions are identical. Players will encounter various challenges, such as resource management and enemy dynamics, all modulated by an AI called the Director, which orchestrates events like asteroid showers based on player performance. Furthermore, although planetary missions exist in various environments, they rely on individualized bubble-like levels rather than full planet exploration.
Character Progression
As players complete missions, they can expect to gain experience that influences their character’s level. Currently, this system is still evolving, offering nominal visual rewards for achievements. Future updates will introduce more character augmentations and weapon options, enhancing gameplay depth.
Looking Ahead
Keepsake Games is eager to expand the Jump Space universe. Plans include introducing additional ship varieties and more mission chapters that progress the overarching narrative against the robot antagonists. Feedback from the community is taken seriously, and developers are exploring elements like ‘endless missions’ where players survive as long as possible against increasing challenges.
Final Thoughts
As a small team based in Stockholm, currently comprised of 16 members, Keepsake Games is mindful of production capabilities and future expansions. While the vision for Jump Space is ambitious, the development team remains dedicated to updating the game based on player feedback and market trends. The development team is also contemplating potential releases on more platforms, considering factors like console market performance and resource allocation.
For more insights on Jump Space, check out the official release and stay tuned for updates as the game evolves.
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