Another Axiom has announced that Orion Drift is set to launch in Early Access next week. The studio behind the smash hit Gorilla Tag is looking to replicate their success with this latest title, but what exactly is Orion Drift? And more importantly, how can you play it?
What is Orion Drift?
Orion Drift is a new multiplayer, VR exclusive game. The main gameplay mode is Drift Ball, which is designed to be a take on handball with the kind of competitive appeal seen in Rocket League. There’s multi-tiered arenas and numerous power-ups available. This is not new in VR; we’ve already had the likes of Space Ball and ARVORE’s Clawball (formerly known as Pawball). However, Another Axiom’s Orion Drift has the might of Gorilla Tag‘s reputation behind it.
In addition to the pseudo-sport, there’s the social element. Orion Drift also includes a massive space station to explore. There’s various different districts, including one designed for parkour so you can flex your Gorilla Tag-movement style muscles. There’s of course also places to relax and socialise, watch ongoing matches and practice your Drift Ball skills. Other mini-games are included, such as one inspired by golf.
A level editor had previously been discussed by Another Axiom. This would allow players to “customize the look and feel of activities, posters, game modes, and more.” However, we are yet to receive any information regarding the availability of this element in next week’s Early Access launch.
How to Play Orion Drift
Orion Drift has been in closed early access since autumn last year. This early test was afforded to just 200 players. However, Another Axiom has now revealed that the doors are being flung wide open. What’s more, they will stay that way.
From 25th February, 2025, anyone with a Meta Quest 2, Meta Quest 3, Meta Quest 3S or Meta Quest Pro will be able to download the game and play. What’s more, just like Gorilla Tag, Orion Drift will be free-to-play. You can download Orion’s Drift via the Meta Quest Store.
Prior to this official Early Access launch, there will be an invitational tournament taking place on 24th February. Exactly what this entails is not yet known.
From the Makers of Gorilla Tag
Another Axiom shot to fame back in 2021 with the launch of Gorilla Tag. The game initially caught the attention of the core VR audience for being a bizarre mix of low-poly visuals and an intriguing control system. However, thanks to the power of social media, it wasn’t long before Gorilla Tag took off and found itself front-and-centre of the mainstream VR audience. At present, there are hundreds of Gorilla Tag clones flooding the Meta Quest Store. As they say, imitation is the sincerest form of flattery.
The studio has expanded significantly from these humble beginnings. At the time of writing, the official website displays more than 30 team members. These include some high profile, experience executives from across TV, film, merchandising and, of course, videogames.
If you’re a Gorilla Tag fan, be sure to check out the 7 best VR multiplayer games!
Orion Drift is in an undoubtedly good position for launch. However, do you feel lightning will strike twice? Can Another Axiom replicate the success of Gorilla Tag in a sci-fi, sports themed setting? Let us know in the comments below!
