Relic Entertainment’s Upcoming Turn-Based Strategy Game: Earth vs Mars
Vancouver’s Relic Entertainment, known for iconic titles such as the original Homeworld series, Warhammer 40,000: Dawn of War, Company of Heroes, and Age of Empires IV, recently regained its independence following a sale by SEGA. Building on this fresh start, the studio has revealed an ambitious plan, promising support for existing franchises like Company of Heroes 3 while also venturing into new territory with smaller, innovative projects.
Introduction to Earth vs Mars
Among these new ventures is Earth vs Mars, a turn-based strategy game that marks the studio’s experiment with indie-style titles under their new ‘Relic Labs’ initiative. This approach allows the developers to explore diverse sub-genres and deliver more frequent releases. Set in a futuristic battleground, players will take command of Earth’s military forces as they confront a formidable Martian invasion.
Gameplay Features
In Earth vs Mars, players will strategize against high-tech Martian foes, utilizing a team of commanders to bolster Earth’s defenses. The game features a compelling mechanic where players can combine human “volunteers” with Earth creatures, creating hybrid super soldiers that enhance combat capabilities. Throughout the campaign, they can unlock new creatures, significant upgrades, and powerful commander abilities that can turn the tide of battle.
Unit Diversity and Strategy
The game showcases a variety of units, each possessing unique abilities. This diversity adds layers to the gameplay, encouraging players to adjust their strategies based on the available units and their commanders’ special traits, which can include both passive and active abilities. Players will face evolving challenges from the Martians as they deploy various units, including The Creep—a sentient organic weapon—and their mutant creations.
Campaign and Multiplayer Modes
Players can expect an expansive narrative-driven campaign featuring over thirty hand-crafted missions. Additionally, Earth vs Mars includes a VS mode that allows for AI battles on custom maps, diversifying gameplay options. In online multiplayer, players can pit their skills against others as Earth’s forces or the Martian invaders.
Map Editing Features
A fully-featured map editor enables users to create and customize their own maps and scenarios, enhancing replayability and fostering a creative community around the game.
Availability and Wishlist Information
While there is currently no announced release date for Earth vs Mars, interested players can add it to their wishlists on Steam.
