ABOVE Gameplay Overview: Build Your 1960s Mountain Resort

Core Gameplay Loop in ABOVE

ABOVE places you in the role of a shelter manager during the harsh winter of the 1960s. Your primary objective is to transform a humble mountain outpost into a thriving alpine resort. The gameplay combines resource management, exploration, and narrative decision-making. You must balance the immediate needs of your guests with long-term expansion plans. Every day presents new challenges, from sudden blizzards to injured climbers requiring rescue. Mastering this loop is essential for success.

Managing Your Mountain Shelter

The heart of the gameplay in ABOVE is shelter management. You are responsible for maintaining the facilities that keep your guests alive and comfortable. This includes managing heat, food supplies, and sleeping quarters. You must allocate resources wisely to ensure everyone survives the night. Strategic decisions about upgrades are crucial. For a deeper dive into facility management, see our Resource Management guide.

Rescuing and Attracting Climbers

A key feature of ABOVE is the rescue system. Climbers will attempt to scale the surrounding peaks, often getting into trouble. You must dispatch rescue teams to save them. Successful rescues increase your reputation, attracting more visitors and skilled staff to your resort. This creates a positive feedback loop, encouraging you to expand your operations. The better your reputation, the more experienced the climbers who arrive. Learn more about the rescue mechanics in our Mechanics Guide.

Expanding with New Routes and Facilities

Expansion is vital for long-term success. You will need to survey the mountain and invest in building new hiking and climbing routes. Each new route opens up access to different areas, resources, and characters. You can also construct new facilities like a ski lift, a warming hut, or a medical station. These improvements increase your resort's capacity and the types of activities available to guests. Planning your expansion order is a core strategic element.

1. Survey the Map

   Use your binoculars to scout potential locations for new trails and shelters.

2. Gather Resources

   Collect wood, stone, and food from the surrounding environment or through trade.

3. Construct the Route

   Assign workers to build the path. This takes time and exposes them to the elements.

4. Reap the Rewards

   New routes attract more climbers and reveal hidden story events.

Narrative and Character Stories

ABOVE is not just about management; it is a narrative-driven experience. The climbers and staff who pass through your shelter have their own backgrounds and goals. Through dialogue and events, you will uncover their personal stories. Your decisions can affect their fates, leading to different outcomes. This narrative layer adds emotional weight to your managerial choices, making every rescue and upgrade feel meaningful.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the main objective of ABOVE? Your main objective is to build and manage a successful mountain resort in the 1960s by rescuing climbers, managing resources, and expanding your facilities.

How does the rescue system work? When a climber gets into trouble, you must form a rescue team and send them out. The success rate depends on your team's equipment and the weather conditions.

Can I expand my resort in any direction? Expansion is guided by the terrain and available resources. You will need to survey the map and invest resources to open up new areas and routes.

Is the game focused more on management or story? ABOVE blends both elements equally. Your management skills directly impact your ability to progress the story, and narrative events often influence your resource situation.