Roadside Research Hits 250k Steam Wishlists

According too data from GameDiscoverCo, Cybernetic Walrus and publisher Oro’s Roadside Research has reached over 250,000 Steam wishlists following the release of its demo. Announced in June, the game first captured attention with a reveal trailer that showcased players taking on the role of aliens disguised as humans, running a gas station while secretly researching humanity. Even before the demo became available, the concept attracted more than 100,000 wishlists, highlighting early interest in the game’s unique premise.

Roadside Research Hits 250k Steam Wishlists

Roadside Research Hits 250k Steam Wishlists

The trailer itself contributed significantly to the game’s visibility. Its mix of humor, with alien characters wearing amateur disguises, and clear demonstration of gameplay mechanics generated viral engagement across social media platforms. TikTok users, including influencer JustRae, created content that helped amplify the game’s reach, with some videos accumulating hundreds of thousands of likes.

Development Strategy and Design Decisions

Cybernetic Walrus co-founder Mike Coeck explained that the team used a combination of purchased Unity Asset Store packs and custom-made content to streamline development. The gas station environment was chosen as a familiar simulator framework, but the team sought to introduce a distinctive element by incorporating an alien invasion theme. Other concepts, including vampires and zombies, were considered before settling on extraterrestrials.

Unlike some simulation games that feature highly cinematic but non-playable trailers, Roadside Research’s trailer reflects actual gameplay. For example, the sequence showing aliens stacking shelves was fully implemented in the game, even if certain items and systems were still under development. This approach aims to balance hype generation with a realistic demonstration of the player experience.

The small development team of five follows a lean methodology, which they refer to as a “momentum framework.” This strategy prioritizes rapid prototyping, selective asset re-use, and focused content creation, allowing them to maintain efficiency without compromising the game’s distinct features.

While some systems are adapted from purchased assets, key elements such as alien models and animations are entirely original. The team anticipates approximately seven months of development before the Steam Early Access launch, followed by around a year in Early Access to expand and refine gameplay.

Early Access Demo Performance

The demo, released on September 15th, has drawn a strong player response. It currently centers on the gas station management aspect of the game, with players earning research points through alien-themed interactions such as collecting DNA from customers.

While some early feedback noted a desire for more alien-focused content, the game already demonstrates strong engagement. Average playtime is over one and a half hours, with a significant portion of players spending multiple hours in the demo. Steam reviews are largely positive, and the game’s Discord community has grown to more than 7,000 members.

Cybernetic Walrus plans to expand the alien mechanics further, including features such as probing, kidnapping, and customizable disguises for players. These additions aim to complement the core simulator experience while increasing replayability and creative potential for content creators.

Roadside Research Hits 250k Steam Wishlists

Roadside Research in the Context of the Current Market

Roadside Research is part of a broader trend in the first-person simulator genre, which has seen renewed interest following the success of games like Supermarket Simulator, Parcel Simulator, and Cash Cleaner Simulator. These titles emphasize simple controls, engaging gameplay loops, and accessible co-op features. Roadside Research blends familiar simulation mechanics with a novel narrative twist, positioning it as one of the more distinctive upcoming games in the market.

The game also shares characteristics with “crewlike” co-op games such as Lethal Company, while drawing from single-player roguelite trends seen in games like Vampire Survivors. By combining these elements, the game aims to attract both simulation enthusiasts and players seeking lighthearted co-op experiences.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is Roadside Research?

Roadside Research is a first-person co-op simulator where players run a gas station while secretly researching humanity as aliens in disguise. The game features both management mechanics and alien-themed interactions.

Who is developing Roadside Research?

The game is developed by Cybernetic Walrus and published by Oro. The team consists of five developers who focus on lean, efficient production using a combination of asset store resources and custom content.

When is Roadside Research launching on Steam?

The game is planned to enter Steam Early Access after approximately seven months of development, with a year of Early Access anticipated to expand and refine gameplay.

What makes Roadside Research different from other simulators?

The game combines familiar first-person simulator mechanics with a unique alien invasion twist. Players can perform alien research, collect DNA from customers, and customize disguises, adding narrative and creative depth to the base gas station management gameplay.

How has the demo performed so far?

The demo has drawn more than 110,000 players, with peak concurrent players reaching 2,384. Steam reviews are largely positive, and average playtime exceeds one and a half hours. The game’s Discord community has grown to over 7,000 members.

Will Roadside Research include more alien mechanics in the future?

Yes. Developers plan to add features such as probing, kidnapping, and customizable alien disguises to expand the gameplay beyond gas station management.