Japanese developer Acquire has announced Scars of Mars, a new real-time sci-fi RPG and their third self-published game.

Scars of Mars is launching sometime next year for Windows PC, via Steam.

Here’s a rundown on the game:

December 6, 2158.

You take on the role of a commander of a humanoid unit, embarking on a top-secret mission to rescue survivors and escape from a research facility on Mars, which suddenly lost contact.

Real-time Formation Battle: Engage in strategic combat where you control four humanoids in a 3×3 grid, making real-time decisions on their actions. Every move counts as you decide which characters to control, when to attack, dodge, heal, or protect. The constant flow of time demands tactical positioning and precise timing, creating an immersive and strategic battle experience.

Character Customization: Assemble a party of four humanoids and take on missions. Each humanoid can be customized by combining different classes, frames, and weapons, allowing for a wide range of character variations. Whether you prefer a Sniper who attacks from afar but moves slowly, a Fighter who swiftly slashes through enemies, a Berserker specialized in close combat but with low defense, or a Healer focused on support and defense, the choice is yours.

Battery Consumption: Routes are procedurally generated for each playthrough, offering different paths, but you can select your movements to progress without getting lost. Every enemy encounter, event, and item container changes in each playthrough, making battery management crucial. Battles, events, and route movements all consume time, gradually depleting your battery. To succeed, you must make precise decisions based on your party’s condition and remaining battery power. Whether you aim for defeating the boss at the deepest level or return midway for equipment and item collection, player wisdom and experience are vital for success.