Baldur’s Gate 3 fans have been waiting for a worthy successor. In 2026, few games have managed to reproduce this formula combining deep storytelling, multiple choices and strategy. However, a new project is attracting attention, and it’s available for free… at least for a limited time.
Starfinder: Afterlight, developed by Epictellers Entertainment, offers an experience inspired by several major RPG references. Available in alpha testing on Steam, it allows players to discover the first bases of an ambitious universe, without spending a cent.
Starfinder Afterlight, an ambitious alternative to Baldur’s Gate 3
Starfinder: Afterlight is part of the modern narrative RPG tradition. Inspired by the paper role-playing game Starfinder, it mixes science fiction, exploration and impactful decisions. The game offers a branching adventure where each choice influences progression. The story begins with the disappearance of Captain Khali, an event that threatens the balance of an entire galaxy.
In this first playable version, the developers offer an overview of the scenario with an immersive introduction: “After a crash landing in the Hivemarket entertainment district on Akiton, players will meet their first companions and begin to investigate the fate of Captain Khali.” The experience focuses on storytelling, but also on interactions and the freedom given to players.
A free alpha limited to one hour of play
This alpha test only offers limited content, but it is dense enough to give an idea of the game’s potential. The sessions last between 45 and 60 minutes. Players can play as three different profiles: a human soldier, a Vesk emissary or a Shirren agent. Each choice influences the approach to situations and interactions with the characters.
The gameplay is based on a turn-based combat system, faithful to the standards of the genre. The developers also promise exploration phases and rich dialogues. As the official description states: “They will be able to explore this part of the city, interact with the world and discover the turn-based combat system. »
How to access Starfinder Afterlight for free on Steam
Access to this alpha version is simple, but not guaranteed. Players must go through the Steam platform to try their luck. On the game page, a button allows you to request access to the test. Once the request is sent, developers select participants and send an activation code. This operation naturally limits the number of players who can test the game. It is therefore advisable to make the request quickly to hope to obtain an invitation.
An expected release in early access in 2026
Starfinder: Afterlight is not limited to this testing phase. The game is due to be released in early access on PC sometime in 2026. For the moment, no specific date has been communicated. This alpha phase allows developers to collect feedback from players in order to improve the experience before launch. With its unapologetic inspirations and ambitious universe, Starfinder: Afterlight could well become one of the RPGs to follow for fans of the genre.