For fans of The Expanse, the wait to finally step into the magnetic boots of a Belter, Martian, or Earther is almost over. During the latest Xbox Partner Preview, developer Owlcat Games—the masterminds behind Warhammer 40,000: Rogue Trader—dropped a massive “protomolecule-sized” update for their upcoming action RPG, The Expanse: Osiris Reborn.
The big news? A Closed Beta is officially launching on April 22, 2026, giving supporters a chance to experience the Belt nearly a year before the game’s full Spring 2027 release.
How to Join the Closed Beta
Unlike typical open betas, this phase is specifically for those helping fund the game’s ambitious development. To get in on April 22, you’ll need to have purchased one of the “Founder’s Packs” via the official website:
The Miller’s Pack ($80): Includes the base game, digital goodies (artbook/soundtrack), and exclusive in-game items like Miller’s OPA heavy armour and his signature revolver.
The Collector’s Edition ($289): For the true “legitimate salvage” hunters. This includes everything in the Miller’s Pack plus a physical collector’s box, a spaceship figurine, a printed art book, and more.
The best part? Once you’re in, you stay in. Owlcat has confirmed the beta will remain playable and receive updates all the way up until the 2027 launch.
What’s in the Beta?
The beta isn’t just a technical stress test; it’s a substantial slice of the story. Players will play through a full mission early in the campaign.
The story kicks off on Eros Station, where your custom character (a Pinkwater Security mercenary) is caught in the middle of a catastrophic lockdown. You’ll eventually escape to the Pinkwater 4 space station, where you’ll meet Zafar, the first of your many companions.
Key Features to Test:
Third-Person Combat: High-stakes, cover-based gunplay that many are already comparing to Mass Effect.
Zero-G Movement: Experience the series’ signature Newtonian physics as you navigate environments where “up” is a relative term.
The Exploit System: A new tactical mechanic where you can command your squad to trigger environmental traps or synchronised takedowns.
Dialogue & Choice: Test out Owlcat’s deep RPG roots with branching conversations that reflect the political tensions between Earth, Mars, and the Belt.
A “Mass Effect” for The Expanse Fans
While Telltale’s recent foray into The Expanse focused on narrative adventure, Osiris Reborn is a full-scale Action RPG. Built on Unreal Engine 5, the game is pushing for a grounded, gritty aesthetic.
From the gameplay trailer, it’s clear that companion relationships are the heart of the journey. Whether you’re upgrading your ship—the most advanced in the system—or settling disputes between your crew, your choices as Captain will carry heavy weight.
Techmash Tip: While the beta is coming to PC, PS5, and Xbox Series X|S, Owlcat specifically recommends playing on Xbox Series X or PS5 for the best console performance during this “work in progress” phase.
Looking Ahead: 2027 Release & Game Pass
If you’re not ready to drop $80 on a Founder’s Pack, there’s still plenty to be excited about. Owlcat confirmed that The Expanse: Osiris Reborn will be a Day One launch on Xbox Game Pass when it officially arrives in Spring 2027.
The game is also confirmed for Steam, Epic Games Store, GOG, and PlayStation 5.
Are you ready to join the OPA, or will you stay loyal to the MCRN? Let us know in the comments if you’ll be jumping into the beta this April!
Find out more here – https://osirisreborn.owlcat.games/
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