The survival MMO PIONER returns with a new trailer. It shows more of the post-apocalyptic game world and its dangers, including a robo-bear with a built-in flamethrower.
What kind of game is it? PIONER is an upcoming survival MMO from the indie developer GFA Games. The game was announced at E3 2021 and was originally supposed to be released by 2022 at the latest, but the release has been postponed several times.
In a fresh trailer for PIONER, the developers showcase more gameplay. They also announce a new release window – the survival MMO is set to be released in 2025 for PC on Steam.
You can watch the trailer here:
Sci-Fi Post-Apocalypse in the Soviet Era
What does the trailer show? PIONER mixes the Soviet look known from the S.T.A.L.K.E.R. series with a sledgehammer full of post-apocalypse. The lighting and color palette make the world appear particularly desolate and bleak.
The players land on a mysterious island called Tartarus. This island holds many deadly creatures: The trailer features mutated humans, giant spiders, and even a robot bear that can breathe fire.
Even more dangerous than any flame-throwing robo-bear might be the humans you share the island with. Within certain areas of the Shadowlands, there is particularly valuable loot, which will lead players to fight against each other.
For those less interested in PvP, the focus is on PvE missions and story quests. According to the developers, the story is inspired by classic science fiction and is said to be filled with complex characters and factions. Fans of story-driven games should thus be pleased.
Weapon Modifications and Survival Aspects
PIONER offers a variety of improvised weapons in addition to classic firearms. You can keep enemies at bay with a spear, hit them with a screwdriver, or ignite them with a flame sword. Weapons can be modified and personalized with a variety of modules and designs.
Your luck and survival is not just determined by your skill with your weapons: hunger, rest, and resources also need to be managed. Otherwise, things are likely to look bleak not only for the world but also for your survival on Tartarus.
If PIONER actually releases in 2025, it will have only been 4 years since its first announcement, despite the delays. Fans of S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2 can only smile wearily: the survival shooter was released in November 2024 after more than 14 years of development, but in rather poor technical condition. A developer of S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2 explains why.