The jury is still out on whether GFA Games’ Pioner will launch in 2025, but interested participants can go hands-on with a free demo. It’s available from June 9th to 16th as part of the Steam Next Fest, with a new trailer highlighting one of the supposed locations – Mushroom Valley. Check it out below.
Announced in 2021 and delayed a fair amount, Pioner unfolds on a post-apocalyptic island in an alternative reality. Offering a 50+ square kilometer map with dynamic PvE and PvP, players take on quests and explore the world, working with factions and ultimately attempting to survive.
Though the trailer showcases more methodical shooting with a crossbow, which doubles as a melee weapon, the tail end showcases an assault rifle for laying waste to enemies. Environments are stylishly detailed, but there’s notable pop-in, especially with foliage and shadows.
For those who can’t get enough of the demo, closed betas will be held later for smaller groups. Head here to sign up, and stay tuned for updates.
