Star Wars Zero Company: Clone Wars, Lucasfilm Details
Electronic Arts' Star Wars Zero Company is set to be the latest addition to the extensive collection of video games set in the vast Lucasfilm galaxy. However, this upcoming single-player turn-based tactics title developed by Bit Reactor aims to stand out from the crowd, and not just because it's the franchise's first turn-based tactics game.
According to Greg Foertsch, head of Star Wars Zero Company developer Bit Reactor, the game's narrative approach was inspired by the AMC drama series Turn. This show, which ran for four seasons, featured both notable and nameless figures during the Revolutionary War, mirroring the game's approach to storytelling.
Foertsch emphasizes the importance of creating characters that players can connect with and feel a sense of ownership over. He believes that players should be able to imprint on these characters and feel a genuine connection to them, rather than just using well-known characters like Yoda or Anakin Skywalker.
Orion Kellogg, Lucasfilm Games executive producer, agrees, stating that the game's priority was to create a story that felt authentic and ownable. This meant using well-known characters sparingly and on the periphery of the story, allowing players to create their own theories and interpretations of the game's events.
The Clone Wars era was chosen as the setting for the game, not only because it's a fan-favorite chapter in the Star Wars saga, but also because it provides a wealth of familiar elements that fans will appreciate. The game's narrative is designed to be unique while still being surrounded by well-known characters and events.
The game's turn-based tactics approach, inspired by the XCOM franchise, may seem less accessible to the average gamer. However, Foertsch believes that the narrative can help deliver the game's mechanics and gameplay, making it more accessible to a wider audience. He emphasizes the importance of weaving the story into the game's mechanics, rather than tacking it on as an afterthought.
Kellogg highlights the appeal of the tactics genre for Lucasfilm, as it aligns with the Star Wars franchise's emphasis on choice with consequences. The game aims to provide a rich narrative experience, with a focus on delivering a compelling story and engaging gameplay.
In conclusion, Star Wars Zero Company promises to offer a unique and immersive experience, blending a rich narrative with engaging gameplay mechanics. With its focus on creating authentic characters and a compelling story, the game is poised to become a standout addition to the Star Wars video game franchise.
