Roadside Research Surpasses 300K Sales in Two Weeks,

Crossplay and Major Updates Coming to Early Access

February 27, 2026 – Developer Cybernetic Walrus and publisher Oro Interactive are happy to share that

Roadside Research has sold over 300,000 copies on Steam in just two weeks since entering Early

Access, while currently holding a 85% positive rating. In its first weekend, the game reached a peak of 9,000+ concurrent players and continues to maintain a strong playerbase, averaging 35,000 daily active users.

Roadside Research entered Early Access with over 500,000 wishlists and was a top 50 demo in Steam Next Fest last year, momentum that has carried directly into launch. Creators jumped in immediately, with daily streams and videos going live and clips spreading across social media, highlighting the chaos and often hilarious moments that come from running the gas station together as undercover aliens.

What’s Next for Roadside Research

Cybernetic Walrus has decided to begin implementing certain features of the roadmap to match player expectations and requests during the Early Access period. This means that Automation which was scheduled for Q2 will start a partial release earlier, and cross-play is already in the works instead of waiting for 1.0.

Here’s a quick overview of the planned updates this year:

Q1:

Expanded shop and player customization, community-requested quality of life improvements, and new features including a self-scan register and self-service gas pump to give players more flexibility in how they run the station.

Q2:

Shop automation systems, expanded alien technology, an NPC customer feedback system, daily quests, bill management mechanics.

Q3:

Food Court expansion, abductions, dynamic in-world events, bus parking systems, and additional store customization options to further shape how your station operates and looks.

Q4:

A Garage update introducing car washing and vehicle maintenance systems, along with seasonal decorations to refresh the station throughout the year.

The team plans to continue expanding and improving the game based on player feedback throughout Early Access.

About the Game

For those discovering it for the first time, Roadside Research is a 1–4 player co-op simulator where you and your friends manage a gas station, but as aliens, and undercover. Your mission is to blend in, act human, and gather as much intel as possible without raising suspicion. You’ll refuel cars, restock shelves, and keep the station running like true pros. Players will have to manage two areas to upgrade while playing: the gas station itself to gather and satisfy customers, and the hidden alien research station to prepare for the invasion

Watch the trailer to see what goes wrong when four “humans” try to run a gas station without blowing their cover.

What players can expect in Roadside Research:

Chaotic Co-op or Solo Play: Run the station on your own or team up with friends, and secretly gather human intel.
Two Paths to Power: Choose wisely between two tech trees to advance your gas station income and research points to advance your alien technology.
Oddly Satisfying Simulation: Pump gas, restock shelves, and expand your shop, all while blending in.
Master Alien Deception: Perfect your disguise or risk exposure. Too much suspicion, and government agents will turn you into goo.
Alien Tech: Use alien technology to manipulate customer behavior and ensure no human leaves with a heavy wallet.

Roadside Research is available now in Early Access on Steam for $12.99 USD / EUR.

About Cybernetic Walrus

Cybernetic Walrus is a game development studio with seven years of experience creating fun, impactful, and exciting games. Driven by a passion for innovation, they are dedicated to delivering memorable gaming experiences that resonate with players worldwide.

About Oro Interactive

Oro Interactive is a game publisher dedicated to delivering catchy, creator-focused experiences that stand out. Known for their work on the viral game, Super Battle Golf, played by streamers from around the globe, they specialize in collaborating with talented developers to bring unique and engaging games to players worldwide. Useful Links

Roadside Research

Cybernetic Walrus

Oro Interactive