Taking a Risk with Tactics
Star Wars Zero Company, a new game studio, is making waves in the gaming community for its upcoming tactics game set in the beloved Star Wars universe. Founder Greg Foertsch recently expressed gratitude towards Lucasfilm and Respawn for their willingness to take a chance on a project that strays from the norm. In an industry often criticized for its derivative nature, this collaboration stands out as a beacon of innovation.
Foertsch pointed out the inherent tension between the creative risks that good art demands and the risk-averse tendencies of the gaming business. 'Good art generally requires risk-taking, and good business is generally risk-averse,' he explained. The challenge intensifies when working with a franchise as iconic as Star Wars, which has a massive following and high expectations.
Despite the challenges, Foertsch believes that Lucasfilm and Respawn have demonstrated a bold vision. 'You’ve got these two giants taking a chance on someone like us, having the vision and the courage and the conviction to risk that on a brand-new studio,' he noted. Their faith in Zero Company to create a turn-based tactics game adds a refreshing twist to the franchise.
Interestingly, the choice to pursue a tactics game within the Star Wars universe may seem puzzling. The genre itself has seen mixed commercial success, as exemplified by the recent Marvel's Midnight Suns, which failed to resonate with a broader audience despite critical acclaim. Foertsch recognizes the uphill battle, stating, 'Familiar characters don't always sell a niche game, even if it's great.'
However, the allure of lightsabers and well-known characters might just be the edge Zero Company needs. Foertsch highlighted the rarity of such opportunities in today’s market, where many studios opt for safer bets. 'It’s very easy for them to follow form and keep imitating what they’ve done and what players expect potentially,' he said.
He emphasized the significance of this collaboration, citing the courage and conviction both companies have shown in supporting innovative ideas. This boldness is particularly valuable in an era when many games struggle to stand out in an ever-crowded market. With nearly half of the 19,000 titles released on Steam last year receiving fewer than 10 reviews, the stakes are high.
As Zero Company gears up for its debut, the gaming community watches with anticipation. Will this venture redefine what players expect from Star Wars games? Only time will tell, but Foertsch’s appreciation for the support of Lucasfilm and Respawn points to a promising start.