The real-time strategy (RTS) genre has seen many revivals and tributes, each one falling into a familiar pattern. Titles often revisit established gameplay mechanics, producing nostalgic experiences for veteran players while attempting to attract new audiences. Yet, a few innovative studios dare to step outside this framework. One such effort is “Project Citadel,” developed by Last Keep, a team comprised of industry veterans from the likes of Ensemble Studios and BonusXP. This new title aims to weave fresh ideas into the tapestry of RTS while staying respectful to its traditional roots.
Project Citadel introduces a unique blend of gameplay by merging classic RTS mechanics with roguelike design principles. This combination sparks intrigue and skepticism in equal measure—a daring leap that can either lead to a renaissance of gameplay or devolve into another disappointing iteration of familiar tropes.
Breaking New Ground with a Roguelike Twist
At the core of Project Citadel lies an unwillingness to conform to the traditional lengthy campaign model that has dominated RTS experiences for decades. As Yohan Sengamalay, a former executive at Microsoft and Battlefy, articulates, the studio seeks to fragment this lengthy structure into smaller, bite-sized missions. This change is not merely aesthetic; it aims to facilitate meaningful choices and experimentation within the game’s strategic framework.
The design introduces a branching galactic overmap, enabling players to navigate through smaller RTS encounters within a roguelike environment. This procedural generation builds on the game’s replayability, offering different challenges and scenarios with each playthrough. Such an ambitious restructuring challenges conventional notions of what an RTS can deliver—a flexible playstyle that respects players’ time without sacrificing depth.
However, questions linger regarding the effectiveness of merging these two vastly different gameplay philosophies. Traditional RTS fans might wonder if the fast-paced, high-stakes nature of roguelikes will overshadow the meticulous planning and strategic nuances that the genre is known for.
Squad Mechanics and Dynamic Combat
Another exciting feature lies in Project Citadel’s squad-based unit control mechanics, which echo the approach taken in Halo Wars. Yet, there’s a daring twist: the emphasis on combat movement and skill-shot abilities. Players command squadrons, which promises to simplify the strategic micro-management that can often bog down RTS gameplay. This evolution aims to strike a balance between tactical depth and accessibility, allowing players to engage in explosive confrontations without being overwhelmed.
The arsenal players have at their disposal is also thrilling. From agile strike ships to heavy-hitting behemoths, the variety of units creates ample opportunities for creative strategies. Skill-shots, such as ramming through enemy formations, evoke images of chaotic, high-octane battles that could redefine traditional mechanics. Does this spell a death knell for the nuanced strategies of boom and rush? The approach taken by Project Citadel certainly places emphasis on offense, showcasing a readiness to keep players on their toes.
Challenges in the Indie Landscape
It’s important to consider the contextual challenges Last Keep faces as a small indie studio with limited resources. Within an industry often dominated by big-name developers and their extensive budgets, the team at Last Keep must navigate a landscape fraught with uncertainty. While their ambition is admirable, parallels drawn with previous unsuccessful attempts, like Servo, cast a shadow of doubt. Servo aimed for something similar—introducing RPG elements into an RTS—yet struggled to deliver. Could the lessons learned from past endeavors lead Project Citadel to success, or will it be another reminder of the pitfalls inherent in genre innovation?
Nevertheless, the studio’s ambition to deconstruct the RTS format bodes well for the evolution of gaming. True innovation often comes from smaller teams willing to challenge norms and push boundaries. The thoughts of Sengamalay that echo a desire to create fresh experiences and environments resonate deeply with fans who crave innovation—a sign that perhaps this project could achieve something meaningful amidst a sea of remakes and spiritual successors.
The Outlook for Project Citadel
While the horizon for Project Citadel lacks specified release dates or concrete details, there is an electric anticipation surrounding its development. This title stands at the crossroads of tradition and innovation, leaving many eager to witness how it tackles the RTS framework. Its experimental combination of strategy and roguelike mechanics is audacious, and while challenges lay ahead, it could serve as a beacon for the genre’s future. The nimble approach of Last Keep brings a refreshing breeze into the somewhat stale air of RTS offerings, potentially ushering in a new age of strategy gaming adventure that balances depth with innovation.