If you appreciate science-fiction in the style of SOMA, Alien: Isolation, 2001 A Space Odyssey, etc... you will feel right at home here. The aestethic, look and overall art direction reminds me very much of such titles (among others).

This walking sim type game carries a distinct VHS-era look and feel; this fits very well for the setting and the retro-futuristic vibes that are being expressed.

Plenty of attention to detail, especially in the sound department. There are even some hints of humour, from the little IC robot-computers.

I love how the game has absolutely no UI!
To access your PDA, you need to find access points, where you can view hints at what you are supposed to be doing, and save your game, as well.

You have a modular tool that can help you deal with some of the station security measures, and also to help you solve the various 'puzzles' that advance the story.
One thing to note; this game does NOT hold your hand. You will figure things out on your own. No hints, no pointers. Just read, pay attention, and even if you are slightly stuck, just try again at checking the details.

The lack of UI, the superb detail in all the sounds, from opening doors, to footsteps, to electrical buzzes and the staton voice, merged with this kind of VHS/security camera look makes ROUTINE be an extremely immersive game!


For myself, Routine is an easy 9.5/10. I dock a .5 because I would prefer slightly different controls than the ones provided, for peeking and such (I'm nit-picking).