It was revealed today that Lost Planet 3 is officially in production. The next iteration in the series, rather than a sequel as implied by the name, will serve as a prequel to both Lost Planet: Extreme Condition and Lost Planet 2. This time around players will assume the role of Jim, a rig pilot on E.D.N. III (featured in past Lost Planet games) for NEVEC. Part of his job is to assist fellow pioneers at the Coronis base to prepare the planet for colonization. However, the team must first locate thermal energy in order to proceed with their plans.

Given the indigineous Akrid population, players will be put face to face with the threatening enemy at all times. According to Capcom, Jim will unravel a major mystery while performing his job, which will help shape the game's more narrative-driven style (compared to past iterations).

Lost Planet 3 is being developed by Spark Unlimited, the studio behind Legendary and Turning Point: Fall of Liberty. The title will be released on the Xbox 360, PlayStation 3, and PC early 2013. Details are rather slim but the below trailer has been released as well as some screenshots.

Lost Planet 3 introduces Jim, a rig pilot who leaves Earth to take on a hazardous but lucrative contract on E.D.N. III. Working for Neo-Venus Construction (NEVEC) who are preparing the planet for colonization, Jim joins his fellow pioneers at the Coronis base and begins surveying the uncharted terrain and obtaining samples of the planet’s energy supply – Thermal Energy.

With NEVEC’s existing Thermal Energy reserve running low the fate of the Coronis mission depends on the natural source of the energy supply being located. Realizing that this is a great opportunity for a huge pay-off and early ticket home to his family, Jim braves the risk of the treacherous environment and threat of the indigenous Akrid. Acting as a home away from home and boasting an array of tools that can assist Jim on the field, the utility rig provides Jim’s safety and is essential for not only his contract work but also his protection against the ever-changing climate.