The gaming world has just received a new sci-fi FPS contender as Reburn, a studio formed by former Metro Exodus developers, has finally released their debut title La Quimera on Steam in Early Access. This launch comes after an unexpected delay that caused confusion among players and reviewers alike, shifting what was originally marketed as a complete game into an early access release.
The Unexpected Delay
La Quimera was initially scheduled for full release on April 25, 2025. However, on the intended launch day, developer Reburn quietly announced a delay, first communicating only through their Discord server. The lack of clear communication created confusion, especially as review keys had already been distributed to press outlets days before. It wasn't until several days later that Reburn clarified their decision to pivot to an early access model instead of releasing what would have been an incomplete game.
The Current State of Play
The early access version that launched today contains the first four levels of the campaign. According to Reburn, the development team plans to continue working on La Quimera for approximately 18 months before reaching version 1.0. The game is currently priced at USD $29.99, though the developers have indicated that the price will increase as more content is added throughout the early access period.
La Quimera Early Access Details
- Current Price: USD $29.99 (planned to increase as content is added)
- Early Access Duration: Approximately 18 months
- Current Content: First four levels of the campaign
- Developer: Reburn (formerly 4A Ukraine, co-developer of Metro Exodus)
- Story Writers: Nicolas Winding Refn and E.J.A Warren
- Game Modes: Solo campaign or co-op with up to three players
The Setting and Gameplay
La Quimera transports players to a dystopian future set in and around Nuevo Caracas, a Venezuelan megacity controlled by ruthless corporations and armed factions. The game blends military realism with supernatural elements, similar to the Metro series but with its own unique flavor. Players can expect Crysis-style gameplay with superpowered robotic armor that can be upgraded with new abilities throughout the campaign.
One notable feature is the flexibility in how players can experience the game—either as a solo campaign or cooperatively with up to three players. This versatility aims to appeal to different gaming preferences, whether players enjoy tackling challenges alone or with friends.
Development Roadmap
Reburn has outlined ambitious plans for La Quimera's full release. The completed version is expected to feature deeper integration between narrative and gameplay in both solo and co-op modes, expanded NPC involvement, improved pacing and balance, enhanced level design for combat, and additional levels that complete the game's major story arcs.
Planned Full Release Features
- Deeper integration between narrative and gameplay
- Expanded NPC involvement in story-driven gameplay
- Improved pacing and balance between narrative and gameplay
- Enhanced combat level design for both solo and cooperative play
- Additional levels completing the game's major story arcs
Studio Background
Reburn's pedigree is noteworthy, as the studio was formerly known as 4A Ukraine and co-developed the critically acclaimed Metro Exodus before rebranding. The game's story was created by Nicolas Winding Refn and E.J.A Warren, adding creative weight to the project.
Critical Reception
Early impressions of La Quimera have been mixed. Reviewers who played the pre-release version noted numerous technical issues and fundamental design problems that would need addressing beyond simple bug fixes. However, many also acknowledged that beneath these issues lies the potential for a compelling shooter experience if given proper time and development attention.
Looking Forward
While La Quimera's launch hasn't been smooth, Reburn's CEO Dmytro Lymar has thanked the community for their support following the pivot to early access, noting that as Ukrainian game developers, they're very familiar with perseverance in the face of tough choices and tougher odds. The next 18 months will be crucial in determining whether La Quimera can evolve into the standout shooter experience that Reburn initially envisioned.