MIO: Memories in Orbit has officially launched on Xbox Series X|S, PC, and PlayStation 5, arriving as a Day One Xbox Game Pass release – and that alone makes this one of the most exciting drops of the year so far.
Those not subscribed can also pick it up outright for £15.99, but make no mistake: this is a launch built for discovery.
Developed by Douze Dixièmes and published by Focus Entertainment, MIO: Memories in Orbit invites players into a hauntingly beautiful, decaying technological ark known as the Vessel. Overgrown with vegetation and haunted by machines gone rogue, it’s a place filled with forgotten memories – and it’s up to MIO, a nimble robot with extraordinary abilities, to wake them.
A World Worth Getting Lost In
At the heart of MIO: Memories in Orbit is the Vessel itself – a sprawling, interconnected environment that rewards curiosity and patience. This isn’t just a backdrop; it’s a character in its own right, layered with environmental storytelling and visual intrigue.
As MIO explores deeper into the Vessel, long-abandoned systems and dormant memories begin to stir. The mysterious Pearls – once the AI caretakers of this ark – have fallen silent, and the consequences of their absence echo throughout every biome.
Exploration is fluid and satisfying, driven by abilities that meaningfully reshape how the world is navigated, encouraging backtracking that feels purposeful rather than obligatory.
Precision Combat And Build Freedom
Combat in MIO: Memories in Orbit is fast, demanding, and deeply customisable. With over 30 enemy types and 15 formidable guardian bosses, encounters demand adaptability rather than brute force.
MIO’s toolkit grows steadily, introducing powers that enable everything from aerial traversal to deceptive combat tactics. Whether you prefer precision dodging, projectile-based pressure, or clever use of decoys, the game allows players to tailor MIO into a machine that suits their rhythm.
Upgrades are earned through scavenging components, letting players enhance abilities with Modifiers that significantly alter how fights play out – reinforcing experimentation at every turn.
Key Features At A Glance
- A richly interconnected Metroidvania set within a decaying technological ark
- Fluid movement abilities including wall climbing, gliding, and precision traversal
- Over 30 enemy units and 15 guardian bosses to overcome
- Deep customisation through Modifiers and component upgrades
- Day One availability on Xbox Game Pass
Why This Launch Matters
We don’t say this lightly – we’ve already played MIO: Memories in Orbit, and it left a serious impression.
In our 4.5/5 review, we described it as “thrilling to play”, praising its confident design, rewarding difficulty, and constant sense of surprise. We went as far as to say it kicks off the Game of the Year conversation while most of us are still taking the Christmas decorations down.
That confidence now matters more than ever. With a Day One Game Pass release, MIO: Memories in Orbit is positioned to reach a far wider audience than most Metroidvanias ever do. This isn’t a cult hit waiting to be discovered months later – it’s a headline release, available instantly to millions of players.
We’ve previously highlighted the game in our early news coverage and Game Pass features, but now it’s here, playable, and fully realised. If you’re even remotely interested in the genre, this is one of those rare moments where hype and delivery align.
Available Now On Xbox, PC, And PlayStation
MIO: Memories in Orbit is available right now on Xbox Series X|S (through the Xbox Store), PC, and PlayStation 5, launching Day One on Xbox Game Pass or as a £15.99 standalone purchase.
If you’re looking for a Metroidvania that respects your time, challenges your skill, and rewards exploration with genuine wonder, this is one memory worth waking.
Do not sleep on it.
