Lunar Software has released the third installment of their developer Q&A, confirming that Routine will launch at a budget-friendly $24.99. In an era of rising game prices and day-one expansion passes, the developers also announced they have no current plans for DLC, aiming to deliver a self-contained, complete horror experience upon release.
A Complete Experience Out of the Box
The $24.99 price tag is a pleasant surprise for a title with this level of graphical fidelity. It positions Routine aggressively in the indie horror market, especially compared to the $70 standard seen in AAA spaces. Perhaps more significant is the stance on post-launch content. Lunar Software confirmed there are no plans for DLC or expansions. This suggests the narrative won't be left on a cliffhanger to sell a "Part 2" later—what you buy on launch day is the finished story.
Clarifying the "Development Hell" Timeline
One of the biggest talking points surrounding Routine has been its lengthy silence since its initial reveal over a decade ago. The developers addressed this directly, explaining that while the project technically started 13 years ago on Unreal Engine 3, the game releasing in December is effectively a five-year project built on modern tech (UE4/UE5).
This distinction matters because it reassures players that they aren't playing a game built on decade-old code held together by duct tape. The current iteration represents a rebooted development cycle focused on modern standards rather than salvaging the original 2012 prototype.
Is Routine open world?
The Q&A clarified that the game is fundamentally linear, designed to guide players through a specific narrative pacing. However, it's not just a series of corridors. The developers noted that the game features "open environments" with non-linear exploration elements. This usually means that while you have a set destination, the areas you traverse offer freedom in how you navigate them—crucial for a horror game where evasion is your primary defense.
With the release date fast approaching, the only major piece of the puzzle left is the technical performance. Lunar Software stated that official system requirements will be posted next week, giving PC players just enough time to check their rigs before launch.