Just don't get caught doing roadside research.
Roadside Research is gearing up for a major debut and will release in Early Access in the first quarter of 2026 on Steam, Xbox Series X|S and Xbox Game Pass. Developed by Cybernetic Walrus and published Oro Interactivethe game was first revealed this summer. Since then, the alien-run gas station simulator has quickly gained traction, reaching over 400,000 wishlists and attracting over 600,000 players to its demo. To celebrate the upcoming launch window, the team has released a new trailer highlighting several additions, including mask coloring, customizable alien skin tones, and encounters with government agents who won't hesitate to turn players into a puddle of goo.
Designed as a co-op simulator for one to four players, Roadside Research puts you and your friends in charge of a gas station secretly run by aliens. The goal is to blend in with the crowd, appear convincingly human, and gather valuable information while avoiding unwanted attention. Routine duties like filling cars and stocking shelves make up the surface level of the job, but the real work happens behind the scenes. As players progress, they can upgrade both the public gas station and the hidden alien facility, which bring the mission closer to a full invasion.
Players can manage the station alone or with a group, choosing between two development paths that affect the income of people or expand the research capabilities of aliens. The simulation focuses on simple yet fun tasks that require close attention, and the camouflage system adds an extra layer of tension. Allowing suspicion to develop will attract government agents who will bring the operation to a messy end. It also supports cross-play between Xbox Series X|S and Xbox PC. However, the Xbox PC and Steam versions do not connect. You can add it to your wishlist and stay updated as the mission approaches.
