Arc System Works has officially announced Donutal, a new alien screening adventure set to launch on Steam in 2026. A free demo is available today, alongside the opening of the game’s Steam store page.
Screen Aliens, Shape Earth’s Fate
Set in the year 2206, Donutal takes place at an International Space Port constructed atop the remains of the former International Space Station. Players assume the role of a “Chief Xeno Inspector” who awakens from 150 years of cryosleep with no memory—except for a massive debt that must be repaid.
The solution? Screen incoming aliens seeking entry to Earth.
Some visitors claim to be tourists or scholars, while others may offer technological solutions to Earth’s mounting crises. Through group conversations and interrogations, players must determine who can be trusted. Each decision carries weight, influencing not only your personal fate but also the survival of the planet itself.
Conversation Is Your Greatest Weapon
Donutal revolves around deduction through dialogue. Players screen aliens in groups of up to eight, analyzing what each says, who they defend, and who they accuse. Contradictions and subtle shifts in tone may reveal hidden motives.
The interrogation system allows two suspects to be questioned simultaneously. Whether they are lovers, strangers, or members of rival species, their behavior changes depending on who stands beside them. Carefully pairing individuals can expose secrets that single interrogations might miss.
Daily consequences unfold through morning news reports that detail how your previous judgments have impacted Earth. Allowing the wrong alien in could have irreversible consequences.
Meet the Aliens
Several key characters have already been revealed:
- DOLPHIN – An android assistant who provides operational support but has no authority in moral decisions.
- Martian – Adapted to Mars’ thin atmosphere, incapable of lying due to their lack of social filters.
- Pictor – Technologically advanced beings considered potential saviors for Earth.
- Octo – Intelligent and honest aliens with a stylish flair, genetically linked to the hostile Takoo species.
Many additional species will appear throughout the full experience, each challenging human logic and expectations.
Donutal launches on Steam in 2026, with more details to be announced. Players can wishlist the game now and download the free demo to experience early sections and its unique alien-driven dialogue system.
