Giant Robots Invade History?! ‘Bonaparte’ Devs Reveal All!

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The innovative strategy game titled “Bonaparte: A Mechanized Revolution” is about to be launched into Early Access, enabling players to contribute feedback and shape its development towards completion. Set in late 18th century France, this exciting new title promises a fresh twist for enthusiasts of historical tactics and politics games.

On May 21st, independent studio Studio Imugi’s first release – an alt-history strategy game titled “Bonaparte: A Mechanized Revolution” – enters Early Access. This game blends military strategies with the tumultuous politics of 1789 France, a time and place teeming with revolutionary ideas and actions. As its marquee project, Studio Imugi is also infusing sci-fi elements into “Bonaparte”, introducing giant robots to the strategic mix. Game Rant recently had an interview with creative director Jongwoo Kim, where he elaborated on the game’s sci-fi aspects, its historical portrayals, and how it differentiates itself from other strategy games. (For the sake of brevity and clarity, this interview has been condensed.)

Studio Imugi’s Alt-History Strategy Game Bonaparte: A Mechanized Revolution Explained

Bonaparte’s Worldbuilding

To what extent does the science fiction element in Bonaparte impact the plot? Was the concept of including these features part of the original plan for the game?

Absolutely! While we lean more towards “authentic alternate history” over science fiction, this concept has been a part of our vision from the start. In the world of Bonaparte, the colossal statues, or Colossi, are powered by a real historical theory – the Phlogiston Theory. This theory suggests that heat is a separate element that’s released when fire ignites. In the timeline of Bonaparte, this phlogiston is harnessed to fuel advanced engines, which in turn power massive mechanical behemoths known as Colossi, ruling the battlefield.

Q: What was the design process like for the game’s sci-fi elements?

In our designs, we meticulously studied the aesthetics of the late 1700s and early 1800s to preserve the essence of that era while portraying an alternate timeline. However, it was crucial for us to maintain a resemblance to revolutionary France of 1789. To achieve this balance, we steered clear of the common visual styles seen in steampunk and dieselpunk creations, opting instead to find inspiration in historical military uniforms and the ideologies of each faction.

Instead of ornate Royalist giants adorned with shiny silver and gold, featuring the Fleur-de-lys – a symbol of the French Monarchy, the Jacobins appear worn down and rusty, evoking memories of the rebellious, street-fighting sans-culottes from that period.

A: Could you elaborate further on how the game incorporates the Phlogiston Theory? What specifically about this concept drew creators towards using it in a science fiction context?

The Phlogiston Theory, though humorous now, was once a widely accepted explanation for combustion until it was replaced by the Oxygen Theory. It serves as an intriguing tale from another timeline, where the theory and the giant statues (Colossi) help us show players that this is an alternate reality where new opportunities can be explored. Additionally, these Colossi aid in portraying the ideological battles between historical figures in the game “Bonaparte” in a grand and dramatic manner.

Question: Is Bonaparte influenced by any outdated thoughts that are no longer relevant? How does the game handle ideas unique to specific eras, like particular philosophies and ideologies?

In simple terms, Bonaparte provides a comprehensive look at the political scene of his time, covering perspectives that are commonly accepted today as well as some that appear surprisingly outdated. For instance, liberalism, championed by Marquis de Lafayette, embodies fundamental rights that we see in modern Western democracies. However, these rights have only become a reality because of the success of the French Revolution.

Instead of contrast, let’s consider Comte d’Artois, who eventually ascended the throne following the revolution, firmly advocated for reinstating an absolute monarchy reminiscent of the Middle Ages, ruled by a king considered divine and influenced by the church. Notably, a large segment of French populace would have supported this view during that period. The objective was to immerse the player in understanding the prevailing mindset, showcasing how various ideologies were vying for power in France, and how the outcome could have taken several paths.

Inquiry: Which historical personality did the team find most intriguing for inclusion in their game? Was there any historical character that didn’t make it to the final version of the game?

Jacques Hébert was greatly admired by the team due to his unique blend of rawness, vulgarity, and progressiveness that set him apart from others. It was truly delightful for us to witness historical figures like Robespierre and Danton in action. As for less celebrated figures, there are far too many to mention them all, but some that stand out include the investigative journalist Jean-Paul Marat and his assassin Charlotte Corday, as well as numerous generals who served under Napoleon, such as Marshal Davout.

Bonaparte: A Mechanized Revolution Is Inspired By Romance of the Three Kingdoms And Fire Emblem

Bonaparte’s Gameplay, Strategy, and Politics

A: To what extent must gamers manage political and military tactics within the game? Is the ratio of these aspects evenly distributed?

In essence, revolutions are often bloody and intense, so the game leans more towards military tactics and strategy. You’ll have the ability to assemble armies featuring units from the gunpowder era, such as line infantry and hussars, but also build Colossi over time. Utilize these forces to either free or seize territories for one of the three key factions in the game. As events unfold, leading to a civil war, you’ll have opportunities to influence public opinion by disseminating propaganda and participating in the National Convention, where you can alter the nation’s laws.

Q: Is Bonaparte aimed more at players new to strategy games, or those already versed in the genre?

We crafted the game Bonaparte with a focus on empowering the player as the leader of their own revolution, ensuring that both political and military aspects are significant. Strategy veterans will find it easier to grasp, but we’ve put in considerable effort to assist novice players not only in understanding the gameplay mechanics but also the historical background of the French Revolution.

Q: What were the big inspirations for Bonaparte within the strategy genre?

The main influence behind our game is the “Romance of the Three Kingdoms” series by Koei, particularly its role-playing versions like number 8 or 10. Their ability to immerse you in the events of the Three Kingdoms period is enchanting, and we aimed to replicate that experience for the French Revolution. We’re also avid fans of the “Fire Emblem” series, and we drew inspiration from them regarding tactical gameplay and narrative structure. Some less known sources of inspiration were “Root” or the “COIN” board game series, as they still offer some of the most intriguing depictions of asymmetrical warfare. In portraying a civil war during the Revolution, we sought to find ways to make popular support a crucial strategic aspect.

Q: How does Bonaparte differentiate itself from the rest of the genre in terms of gameplay?

A: Bonaparte is a distinctive blend of strategy and tactics, centered around the intricacies of revolution and civil conflict. At the strategic level, including the National Convention and ideological clash introduces a political and social aspect that is rarely explored in this genre, instead favoring conquest as an end in itself. On the tactical side, the inclusion of Colossi enables us to integrate modern armored warfare into gunpowder-era combat, resulting in more dynamic battles than a purely historical game would offer.

Q: How much bigger will the final release of Bonaparte be compared to its Early Access launch?

The initial phase of the game will primarily consist of three significant updates: first, an opportunity for players to engage in groundbreaking trials that could decisively impact the main characters’ lives; second, a concluding chapter to the story, revealing the aftermath of the Early Access launch finale and enabling players to safeguard France’s future; lastly, fresh mech units and battlefields will be incorporated into the game, enhancing gameplay diversity and offering innovative tactics for combat.

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2025-05-21 17:34