Star Wars Zero Company Could Fill the Void Left by XCOM’s Silence

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In the realm of gaming, I’ve found myself drawn to a captivating turn-based title known as Star Wars: Zero Company. As a gamer, it’s thrilling to know that this game, jointly crafted by up-and-coming indie studio Bit Reactor and the masterminds behind Star Wars Jedi, is promising an intriguing twist on the beloved Star Wars universe.

It’s particularly interesting to note that the Bit Reactor team isn’t new to the turn-based strategy genre. In fact, this studio comprises several industry veterans who have previously worked on the renowned XCOM series. The XCOM franchise is highly acclaimed in the strategy world, and while we look forward to Star Wars Zero Company, it makes one wonder when another XCOM game might be released.

Star Wars Zero Company Could Fill an XCOM-Sized Hole

Taking On Alien Invasions One Turn at a Time

  • The first game, XCOM: UFO Defense, was released in 1994.
  • The last major entry in the series was 2020’s XCOM: Chimera Squad.

Having produced more than three decades of games, the XCOM series certainly doesn’t lack in content. Yet, the prospect of a new installment remains as thrilling as ever. Following a hiatus since 2001, the original franchise was revitalized in 2012. This reboot, developed by Firaxis and published by 2K Games, resurrected the sci-fi series with renewed vigor. Since its return, the reimagined XCOM has been well-received within its genre, keeping the alien-fighting narrative alive and thriving.

Although they’ve achieved great success with XCOM, Firaxis and 2K have remained tight-lipped about the game’s future plans. Given that it’s been five years since XCOM: Chimera Squad was launched, there seems to be a strong need for an update or new development in the series. Here’s hoping the rebooted franchise continues to thrive instead of reaching its end.

The company Bit Reactor was established jointly by its CEO, Greg Foertsch, who previously held the position of Art Director for both XCOM: Enemy Unknown and XCOM 2.

Until a New XCOM Surfaces, Star Wars Zero Company Can Scratch That Turn-Based Itch

  • Star Wars Zero Company has yet to reveal its release date, but a 2026 launch target has been confirmed.
  • The game is set to launch for PC, PS5, and Xbox Series X/S.

The game Star Wars Zero Company, although not focused on alien invasions, shares some resemblance with the turn-based genre due to Bit Reactor’s developers’ prior experience. While Star Wars has a distinct identity apart from alien-centric series, it still falls within the sci-fi genre, which might keep fans engaged until another XCOM is released, if that happens. Star Wars Zero Company offers a refreshing shift in the franchise’s video game portfolio, and its potential similarity to XCOM could make it an appealing choice for longtime fans seeking something new yet familiar.

In the game titled “Star Wars: Zero Company“, players assume the character of Hawks, guiding a team they can tailor to their preferences throughout the period of the Clone Wars.

Turn-Based Gameplay is Back in the Spotlight

  • While not tactical games, Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 and Baldur’s Gate 3 are turn-based RPGs.

The remarkable achievements of “Clair Obscur: Expedition 33” and “Baldur’s Gate 3” have undeniably proven the pleasure that turn-based gaming can offer. It is anticipated that “Star Wars: Zero Company” will further highlight the prowess of this genre. Despite their contrasting methods for implementing turn-based mechanics, it is exhilarating to witness such a style of gameplay receiving widespread acclaim.

No matter if it’s a strategy game with turn-based combat or a role-playing game using the same method, both genres demand patience from players. It’ll be thrilling to observe how this plays out in a Star Wars universe. The anticipation for Star Wars Zero Company might take longer than expected, but perhaps it will lay the groundwork for more XCOM-like games or simply more turn-based gaming experiences.

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2025-05-19 06:35