In a galaxy not so far away, the anticipation for Bit Reactor’s upcoming Star Wars strategy game is building at lightspeed. Though the specifics of this project are shrouded in secrecy, a recent sit-down with the studio’s art director, Daanish Syed, and technical director, Ryan McFall, has shed light on their ambitious vision for the future of strategy gaming within the Star Wars universe.
Redefining Strategy Gaming
The strategy genre, often seen through a narrow lens, is poised for a grand evolution if Bit Reactor has its way. Ryan McFall, with a notable history working on the XCOM series, emphasized the studio’s goal to “expand people’s perception of what the experience actually is of playing a strategy game.” This vision includes breaking down barriers to entry and enriching the genre’s appeal.
Daanish Syed further illuminated the challenge of making strategy games accessible to newcomers. Drawing parallels with the racing genre’s spectrum—from arcade to simulation—Syed believes that strategy games have yet to fully showcase their range, potentially limiting player engagement. The upcoming Star Wars strategy game aims to bridge this gap, introducing players to the vast possibilities within strategic gameplay.
Innovations in User Interface (UI) and Accessibility
A standout focus for Bit Reactor is the development of an intuitive and engaging user interface (UI). The goal is to craft an initial gameplay experience that is “immediately fun,” ensuring players are captivated by the core mechanics before being introduced to more complex layers. This approach not only aims to retain players but also to make the game accessible to a wider audience through support for various input devices, from gamepads to touchscreens.
A Visual Language for the Galaxy
The aesthetic ambition for Bit Reactor’s Star Wars strategy game is nothing short of revolutionary. Inspired by his work on Jedi: Survivor, Syed is eager to develop a unique visual language that harmonizes with the Star Wars universe while establishing a distinctive identity for the game. This commitment to visual innovation promises a strategy game that not only plays uniquely but looks unique.
Speculating on the Gameplay
While the term “RTS” (real-time strategy) was notably absent from our conversation, the emphasis on controller-friendly UI and comparisons to games like Mario + Rabbids and Baldur’s Gate 3 suggest a potential lean towards turn-based strategy elements. This speculation points to a game that could offer a fresh take on strategic combat and exploration in the Star Wars universe.
Looking to the Stars
As we await more details from EA and Bit Reactor, the foundation laid by Syed and McFall hints at a Star Wars strategy game that aspires to be as vast and exploratory as the galaxy it’s set in. By focusing on accessibility, engaging UI, and a unique visual style, Bit Reactor is not just creating a game; they’re crafting an entry point into the Star Wars universe that invites players to strategize, conquer, and explore like never before.
The anticipation for this Star Wars strategy game is a testament to the enduring appeal of the Star Wars saga and the limitless potential of strategy gaming. As Bit Reactor continues to work behind the scenes, one thing is clear: the future of Star Wars strategy gaming is bright, and it’s poised to offer fans around the globe a new way to engage with their favorite galaxy far, far away.
Via PCGamer