Under a Rock Shows Off Animal Taming, Rideable Companions, and New Creatures in Fresh Gameplay
Gameforge and Nordic Trolls have revealed a new gameplay look at Under a Rock, the upcoming survival crafting adventure that blends exploration, base-building, creature care, and combat on a mysterious prehistoric island.
The latest gameplay showcase focuses on one of the game’s most important systems: animal taming. In Under a Rock, players can capture wild creatures by using a Taming Box filled with the preferred bait for each species. Once successfully tamed, these creatures become part of the player’s base and provide useful resources over time. Some will shed species-specific materials, while others can lay eggs if they are kept well-fed, safe, and happy.
Taming is not a one-time task, however. Creatures require regular attention and care. If players neglect them, they may eventually return to their wild state, which could lead to unexpected trouble around the base. This adds a management layer to the survival experience, encouraging players to treat their animals as part of their settlement rather than simple resource machines.
Eggs from tamed creatures can be placed in a Hatchery, where they can grow into companions. These companions play a much more active role than standard tames. They can travel with the player, be ridden across the island, assist in combat, carry loot, and respond to direct commands such as Stay, Follow, Attack, Stop, Mount, and Dismiss. Players can also adjust their combat behavior, making companions useful in different survival situations.
Unlike regular tamed creatures, companions cannot be permanently killed. If they fall during combat, they will recover on their own after the danger has passed. This makes them reliable allies for players who want to explore dangerous areas without constantly fearing the permanent loss of a favorite companion.
Companions also feature progression systems of their own. They can be tiered up and improved through use, with core stats such as Mobility, Ferocity, Lifeblood, Burden, and Hardiness affecting how they perform. Whether players want a fast mount, a stronger fighter, or a companion that can carry more supplies, the system appears designed to support different playstyles.
Customization is also part of the fun. Players will be able to give companions adorable hats, adding personality to their animal allies while making each one feel more unique.
The new gameplay footage also introduces several creatures players can encounter in the world of Under a Rock. One of them is the Curse Eye, a strange and mysterious creature found within Crystal Caves. Another is the Giant Bee, a dangerous but fascinating inhabitant of forests and meadows. These additions suggest that the island will be filled with unusual wildlife, each with its own role in the ecosystem.
By combining taming, companion raising, base-building, exploration, and combat, Under a Rock aims to create a survival crafting experience where creatures are more than background wildlife. They become part of the player’s daily routine, long-term progression, and adventures across the island.
Under a Rock is currently in development for Windows PC, Xbox Series X|S, and PlayStation 5.
