The upcoming offroading adventure, “Over the Hill,” is generating a buzz from fans of Funselektor, known for their work on “Absolute Drift” and “Art of Rally.” In collaboration with Strelka Games, they’ve just unveiled the first gameplay trailer during the Triple-i Initiative indie showcase.
Since its announcement in January, “Over the Hill” has been highly anticipated. Funselektor is stepping up their game by blending their signature sleek, minimalist art style with a new off-road landscape. Think of it like “SnowRunner,” but with fewer trailer maneuvers (and by trailers, we mean the kind you attach to vehicles, not the game previews). However, when it comes to game trailers, “Over the Hill” appears ready to push some boundaries.
In this reveal, you’ll notice that the game is already a hit on Steam with more than 200,000 wishlists, despite not even having a release date yet. Rest assured, the game promises plenty of mud challenges and the satisfying use of a winch to extract yourself from sticky situations—perfect for those who want the off-road experience minus the hefty maintenance costs of a real-life Land Rover.
You have the option of exploring these vibrant terrains with up to three buddies, navigating the twists and turns in classic off-road vehicles from the 60s to the 80s. This retro charm is consistent with Funselektor’s style, but this time you’ll journey through diverse landscapes and weather conditions spanning various seasons.
The developers opted for a minimalist UI, with a mini-map that’s reminiscent of an Ordnance Survey map—like the ones your dad might unfurl across the dashboard on a road trip gone awry. The game’s winching mechanism, shown from the driver’s seat, feels familiar to those acquainted with “SnowRunner.” It’s the classic point-and-pull method, using a circular marker to reel in your vehicle.
Additionally, the game will allow some customization of your ride, ensuring it’s in peak condition for muddy escapades. A photo mode is also included, letting you snap a memento from the summit of a mountain or mid-roll down a slope after a slight miscalculation. Both situations are worth capturing in my opinion.
Excited to dive into the mud with “Over the Hill” once it lands? We’d love to hear your thoughts. And while you’re at it, check out our review of Funselektor’s latest hit, “Golden Lap.”