Imagine this: you’re navigating a strange and vibrant world filled with laser-eyed rubber ducks, looming dragons, and mysterious mechanical creatures. Along the way, you dodge obstacles, race across rivers, and battle epic bosses — all while trying to rescue a group of stranded robots known as the Most Valuable Programs. With the help of your trusty companions, a rocket-powered explorer, and a rolling robot sidekick, you must outmaneuver enemies and master the environment to save the day.
If you’ve ever found yourself in this exact situation, there’s a very good chance you’re a fan of Astrolander, the imaginative platformer game developed by Max Trest and the team at Lost Cartridge Creations.
At its core, Astrolander is an action-packed platforming adventure built to take full advantage of the PlayStation 5’s DualSense controller. Players control two robotic heroes — the rocket-powered Haptic and the rolling robot Feedback — as they navigate a dynamic world filled with puzzles, enemies, and environmental challenges. The game blends 2.5D and 3D gameplay with immersive mechanics that use the controller’s haptic feedback, adaptive triggers, and motion controls to bring the world to life. Whether playing solo or in local co-op, players must work together to rescue the MVPs (Most Valuable Programs) and stop a mysterious force known as the Cyberlution from taking over the universe.
The story behind Astrolander is just as remarkable as the game itself. The project began as a hobby for Max Trest, who started developing the game at just 13 years old before founding the indie studio Lost Cartridge Creations. What started as a passion project quickly gained attention at gaming events such as the Seattle Indies Expo, where it caught the eye of PlayStation’s indie team. From there, the game evolved into a full-fledged PlayStation 5 and Steam/PC title and began attracting media coverage from outlets including IndieGame, BBC, CBC News, and CTV News. Along the way, Astrolander has impressed audiences with its polished visuals, imaginative world, and innovative use of the DualSense controller — proving that bold ideas and creativity can come from anywhere.
British Columbia is home to one of Canada’s most dynamic creative technology and video game industries. According to DigiBC, the province’s creative technology sector includes more than 250 companies employing over 16,000 people, spanning video games, animation, visual effects, and immersive technologies. The ecosystem brings together major global studios, mid-sized companies, and a thriving independent developer community, supported by a strong pipeline of post-secondary talent and training programs. Together, they contribute to a fast-growing innovation economy that continues to position B.C. as a global hub for creative and digital technology.
Max Trest and the Lost Cartridge Creations team will be showcasing their work at the B.C. Pavilion during Web Summit Vancouver, where attendees can learn more about Astrolander and the story behind the studio’s journey.
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