Jump Ship Preview: It's Sea of Thieves Meets Left 4 Dead, and it's Even More Polished and Fun Than Last Year

Jump Ship: A Stellar Sci-Fi Shooter Ready for Launch

Almost a year ago, at the Game Developers Conference, I first encountered Jump Ship, a captivating four-player sci-fi PvE shooter. Blending elements of Sea of Thieves, Left 4 Dead, and FTL, it immediately impressed. A recent hands-on session with the developers confirmed my initial enthusiasm; this indie title has the potential to be a major breakout hit in a crowded year for game releases. With an Early Access launch slated for this summer, it's more polished and enjoyable than ever.

Jump Ship offers a non-grindy space adventure for up to four players. Importantly, Keepsake Games is incorporating solo play options, addressing player feedback. Solo players will be supported by narratively driven AI companions to manage the ship. The Prologue serves as both a tutorial (covering shooting, space suit maneuvering, piloting, and ship combat) and a compelling lore introduction.

Jump Ship - Closed Beta Screenshots

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The core PvE gameplay is enriched by a compelling narrative. A malicious virus threatens the galaxy, and players, as Atirans, must journey to the galaxy's heart to eradicate it. Missions unfold across procedurally generated sectors, offering diverse experiences ranging from short bursts to extended gameplay sessions. The Jump Map uses color-coding to indicate mission difficulty and potential rewards.

The non-infected AI, Iris, discovered in the Prologue, acts as a guide and narrator, adding structure to the gameplay. The Hangar serves as a central hub for currency exchange, outfit customization, galaxy map navigation, and even recreational activities like soccer.

The four-player cooperative gameplay is exceptionally engaging. Missions present dynamic challenges; players must coordinate piloting, weapon operation (including a 360-degree cannon), hull repairs, and fire suppression. Teamwork is crucial for both ship combat and on-foot missions within infected structures. The grappling hook enhances mobility, and efficient loot retrieval requires coordinated protection.

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While my demo sessions were brief, they highlighted Jump Ship's addictive nature and short-burst playability. The long-term replayability of the procedurally generated missions remains to be fully assessed, but the game's potential is undeniable. Jump Ship possesses all the elements of a future hit.