SAW: Genesis closed alpha launches July 16

Broken Mirror Games and Anshar Studios opened registration for the closed alpha of SAW: Genesis, with testing set to begin on July 16. Phased keys and server access started rolling out on July 10. The playtest precedes a planned Early Access release later this year.

SAW: Genesis is an asymmetrical multiplayer horror game that matches three players as the Accused against a single player controlling the Judge. Matches take place on procedurally generated, maze-like maps inspired by events following World War I. Traps, enemies and items are placed differently each round so layouts and scenarios change with each match.

Gameplay focuses on survival and moral choices for the Accused while the Judge manipulates traps and level elements to impede them. During the closed alpha, players will queue into matches as groups of up to three Accused and then be matched with a lone Judge to complete rounds. Developers plan a formal onboarding process for test participants.

Access to the alpha was determined through a survey-based application designed to assemble a varied group of testers. Keys and server access have been distributed in phases since July 10. Participants are asked to report issues and provide feedback to help refine multiplayer balance, identify bugs, improve technical performance, shape core gameplay elements and inform the game’s emerging meta.

Broken Mirror Games and Anshar Studios first revealed SAW: Genesis at Summer Game Fest earlier this year and released additional details on match structure and level generation ahead of the alpha. The title is scheduled to be playable at Gamescom, where attendees can try the game in person.

The developers plan further tests before the Early Access release and will expand the pool of testers over time. The closed alpha is one of several playtests intended to gather feedback and make iterative changes before the broader launch later this year.