Science fiction is all about creating immersive worlds, and the recent adventure gameThe Invincibledoes this wonderfully. Players land on a distant world, hoping for discovery, but find more than they bargain for.
The 2012 science fiction filmPrometheusshares numerous similarities with the adventure video gameThe Invincible. Both stories feature small groups of humans exploring mysterious alien worlds and unraveling ancient secrets left behind by advanced extraterrestrial civilizations. LikeThe Invincible,the filmPrometheusgenerates a similar sense of isolation and mystery as characters are stranded in a desolate region with unknown threats lurking in the darkness.
Prometheusfollows an expedition to the remote moon LV-223, where clues point to the engineers who seeded life on Earth.The Invincibleisset on the planet Regis III, overrun by mysterious and hostile lifeforms. Though different in setting and timeline, core themes of humanity’s place in the universe, the dangers of unchecked science, and humanity’s relationship with advanced machines are explored in both works.
What Is The Invincible About?
The Invincibleis based on the novel of the same name by Stanisław Lem, a Polish science fiction writer. The game was developed by Starward Industries, a Polish independent studio, and published by 11 Bit Studios, another Polish company known forThis War of MineandFrostpunk. The game was released on Jun 19, 2025, for Windows, PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series X/S.
The first-person adventure game followsthe story of Yasna, an astrobiologist who lands on the planet Regis III to search for her missing crewmates. The planet is inhabited by mysterious and hostile lifeforms, threatening Yasna’s survival. Yasna has to use various tools, such as a scanner and a telescope, to explore the alien environment and uncover the secrets of Regis III. The game features a branching narrative with multiple endings depending on the player’s choices and actions.
124 minutes
Rotten Tomatoes Score
72% Fresh
Prometheus, released in 2012, was directed by Ridley Scott and written by Jon Spaihts and Damon Lindelof. The film presents a visually stunning and thought-provoking exploration of humanity’s origins and encounter with enigmatic alien forces. Its narrative intricacies and thematic depth continue to captivate audiences, offering a cinematic journey that posits profound questions about existence and the mysteries of the universe.
The isolated setting of LV-223 is just as inhospitable and dangerous as the open world ofThe Invincible. Resources are scarce, and characters must work together to secure shelter, food, and medical supplies against environmental hazards. Like players navigating the Regis III, the crew inPrometheusmust carefully explore their surroundings and use intelligence to uncover clues without provoking unknown dangers.
InPrometheus,the mysterious origins and abandoned architecture left by the engineers parallel the mysteries at the heart ofThe Invincible. Players strive to understand what advanced technologies led to humanity’s downfall, just as the Prometheus crew seeks to learn the engineers' purposes and technology. Both works acknowledge that science does not always understand its powers and creations.
Similarities Between Prometheus and The Invincible
The science fiction narratives ofThe InvincibleandPrometheusdelve into the origins of humanity and the implications of encountering extraterrestrial life. Familiar with existentialism, philosophy, and cosmic horror themes,The Invincibleplayers will recognize the shared explorations of these themes in both works. They will also discern the subtle nods to Stanisław Lem’s novel, such as the spaceship Prometheus and the planet LV-223, adding an extra layer of depth to their experience.
BothThe InvincibleandPrometheusboast captivating visuals and immersive soundscapes that evoke a sense of awe and wonder.The atompunk aesthetics ofThe Invinciblestand in stark contrast to the dark and gritty ambiance ofPrometheus, offering players a unique visual experience. The game’s graphics align with the film’s high production values, while the musical scores of both works, blending electronic and orchestral elements, craft an atmosphere of tension and mystery that will resonate withThe Invincibleplayers.
The expanded parallels betweenPrometheusandThe Invincibleprovide deeper context into why players who appreciate the video game’s thoughtful exploration and complex group dynamics will find much to enjoy in Ridley Scott’s film. While different in medium, both works generate suspense through environmental peril and social intrigue within small teams. For fans of intelligent science fiction exploring humanity’s relationship with advanced technologies,Prometheusoffers a unique cinematic experience.
Science fiction thriller, with elements of adventure, exploration, and choice.
Science fiction horror, with elements of mystery, suspense, and action.
Influenced by the atompunk aesthetics of the 1960s, with a focus on retro-futuristic technology.
Influenced by the dark and gritty aesthetics of the Alien films.
The Invincible
WHERE TO PLAY
You are a highly qualified, sharp-witted astrobiologist named Yasna. Being entangled in a space race, you and your crew end up on the unexplored planet Regis III. The scientific journey quickly turns into a search mission for lost crewmates. Follow its trail, but be fully aware that every decision you make can bring you closer to danger.On her journey, Yasna will face decisions that will shape the outcome of the story. Help her make difficult choices and witness one of 11 possible endings to the deeply philosophical story.Discover fragments of what’s lost and report to your Astrogator. Let his voice aid you during hard times when humanity’s greatest threat emerges. The latter will force you to rethink mankind’s ambitions and biases. Go on - make decisions, follow the mystery… but remember not to underestimate the brutal simplicity and brilliance of evolution.
