Now that we have zipped through the solar system, we’re going to take a look at the playable characters alien race, the Hearthians.
Hearthian Introduction
The alien race known as the Hearthians are an amphibious race with four eyes, little sense of self preservation, and great curiosity for the outside world. Their home planet is Timber Hearth, which was discussed in a previous update. On their redwoods-inspired home planet, the Hearthians work together through to reach a greater understanding of the solar system they live in.
Hearthian culture was inspired by the unusual mix of Apollo-era NASA with backpacking and camping at a national park. Sit out on the porch at sunset and roast marshmallows while you watch your neighbor test out their new model rocket thrusters. Because Timber Hearth has geysers powerful enough to send things into orbit, early Hearthians learned through trial and error how to launch things into space, and it wasn’t long before they started to build ships to explore their tiny solar system.
The Hearthian space program, Outer Wilds Ventures, was founded by Hornfels, Gossan, Slate, and Feldspar. During its early years, Outer Wilds Ventures collected objects of interest (often Nomai in origin) and brought them back home, further enriching the culture and technology of the Hearthians. Many of these technologies have been used to enhance Hearthian exploration technology, granting systems such as artificial gravity or the ability to remotely retrieve a scout with warp technology.
As the latest Hearthian traveler, you are the first to be equipped with a tool that will allow you to translate Nomai text - the first of its kind. You and your friend Hal developed this technology to gain a greater understanding of the ancient mysteries that lie dormant in the solar system.
Before you can take off on launch day, however, you need to grab the launch codes from Hornfels up at the observatory, so make sure to say your goodbyes to the other villagers as you make your way up. You can play with Mica’s model rocket, hear about the other travelers from Gneiss, or play hide and seek with Tephra and Galena. Make sure to stop by your old flight coach, Gossan, for a refresher on your zero-g training, and check out the nearby scout launcher to get a feel for the planet outside of your home crater. Once you’re ready, grab the launch codes and go explore the Outer Wilds!