Beyond a Steel Sky

Lore & Background

Beyond a Steel Sky is set in a far-future Earth where mega-cities like Union City exist in a world ravaged by nuclear war and disasters. City dwellers are subject to corporate laws, while those outside in the wastes, called The Gap, live in tribal communities known as Gaplanders. The story takes place ten years after Beneath a Steel Sky, focusing on Robert Foster, a Gaplander who was exiled from Union City as a child and raised by a tribe. The plot, written by Charles Cecil, explores how an AI would interpret a prime directive to make people happy.

Reader's Guide

The game's significance lies in its continuation of a classic adventure series, updating the original's point-and-click style with modern 3D cel-shaded graphics and comic book-styled text boxes. Its release strategy was notable: first on Apple Arcade in June 2020, then on Steam for PC and Mac in July 2020, and finally on consoles in November 2021. Critical reception was positive, with reviewers praising the writing and storytelling while noting some technical issues. GameWatcher described it as filling the shoes of its predecessor and defining the modern adventure game, while PC Invasion highlighted its excellent writing and interesting storytelling. Godisageek noted the humor and mystery as strong points, making it worthwhile for both returning players and newcomers.

Did You Know?

• The game is set ten years after the events of Beneath a Steel Sky.
• It uses Unreal Engine 4 with cel-shaded 3D graphics and comic book-styled text boxes.
• The plot was written by Charles Cecil and focuses on an AI interpreting a directive to make people happy.
• The game was initially released on Apple Arcade before coming to other platforms.