Jump Ship: A Sci-Fi PvE Shooter Ready for Launch
Almost a year ago, at the Game Developers Conference, I first encountered Jump Ship, a four-player sci-fi PvE shooter blending mechanics reminiscent of Sea of Thieves, Left 4 Dead, and FTL. It immediately impressed me. A recent playthrough with the developers solidified my belief: Jump Ship has the potential to be a major indie hit in a crowded year. Its upcoming Early Access launch this summer showcases a refined and incredibly fun experience.
Jump Ship offers a non-grindy space adventure for up to four players. Importantly, Keepsake Games is actively developing a robust single-player mode. Solo players will find narratively driven AI companions to assist them in managing their ship. This is showcased in the Prologue, which serves as both a tutorial (covering shooting, space suit maneuvering, piloting, and ship combat) and a compelling lore introduction.
Jump Ship - Closed Beta Screenshots
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The game features a captivating story centered around a galaxy-wide virus. Players, as Atirans, must journey to the galaxy's core to eradicate the infection. Missions are procedurally generated, offering varying lengths (from 10 minutes to an hour). A Jump Map with color-coded routes indicates mission difficulty and potential rewards.
The non-infected AI, Iris, encountered in the Prologue, acts as a mission narrator, providing structure to the gameplay. The Hangar serves as a central hub for spending in-game currency, outfit customization, galaxy map navigation, and even a mini-soccer game.
The core four-player gameplay is incredibly engaging. Missions present dynamic challenges. Players must coordinate tasks: piloting and using pilot-chair weapons, operating the main cannon, performing hull repairs (including fire suppression!), and securing loot while under fire. Teamwork is essential for success. The grappling hook greatly enhances mobility.
Jump ShipKeepsake Games Wishlist
While my demos were brief, they highlighted Jump Ship's addictive short-burst gameplay. The long-term replayability, however, remains to be fully assessed. Despite this, the game's potential is undeniable. Jump Ship boasts all the elements of a future hit.
