Firewalk’s director of IP Kim Kreines says it’s an “added layer for folks that want to invest in it” and completely optional.

After a long wait, Firewalk Studios’ Concord is out next month for PS5 and PC, with the open beta starting on July 18th. While the team has discussed the playable Freegunners, modes and post-launch support, it’s also devoted to expanding the universe through weekly vignettes. Of course, that’s not all – a Galactic Guide is also available in-game.

As noted in VGC’s recent first look, it tracks lore, including information on each of the planets, similar to Destiny 2’s Grimoire. The site says it offers “hours of facts and history to pour over,” though Firewalk is aware this isn’t for everyone.

“It’s an added layer for folks that want to invest in it, and it’ll come across to everybody playing. You get little pieces, even if it’s not your jam, that’s totally fine,” says director of IP Kim Kreines.

“So even if you’re somebody just there for the gameplay, we hope the flavor you absorb enhances that, and it feels like all part of the package. If that’s not where you want to invest time, you don’t have to. If that’s where you want to invest, we give you that option.”

Furthermore, it confirmed that the team has a “large number” of vignettes mapped out, though how long they’ll go on remains to be seen.

Concord launches on August 23rd, with the Standard Edition retailing for $39.99. Pre-orders can gain access to the open beta on June 12th.