In recent years, the real-time strategy (RTS) genre has seen a slew of attempts to reinvigorate its classic roots. While many nostalgic remakes, like the well-received Age of Mythology: Retold, serve as a loving homage to the golden age of strategy games, there is a tangible hunger for innovation. Enter Project Citadel, a new endeavor from the indie studio Last Keep. Fueled by a team that includes veterans from both BonusXP and Ensemble Studios—well-known for their contributions to Age of Empires and Stranger Things—Project Citadel stands out as a fresh approach to space warfare, challenging the conventions of traditional RTS gameplay.
What makes Project Citadel particularly intriguing is its blend of familiar tactical elements with a roguelike structure. Traditional RTS fans may immediately recognize the terms “booming” and “rushing,” strategies that dictate initial economic focus versus aggressive early attacks. However, Project Citadel looks to transition these principles into a new format where players navigate through branching campaigns filled with procedurally generated missions. In essence, this game transforms the lengthy campaigns of yore into bite-sized, exhilarating experiences that fit modern, fast-paced gaming lifestyles.
A New Cast of Characters in Combat
At the core of Project Citadel is an emphasis on squad mechanics, reminiscent of the gameplay found in Halo Wars. Players manage entire squadrons rather than individual units, creating a dynamic that allows for a more streamlined experience, whether on a controller or a mouse and keyboard. The varied fleet of ships available for command—ranging from swift missile-launching daggers to behemoth carriers—each contribute unique abilities to the battlefield. With skills that can turn tides of combat, such as ramming opponents or deploying strategic maneuvers, players are encouraged to think on their feet.
Yohan Sengamalay, one of the driving forces behind Project Citadel, has spoken about the team’s desire to “deconstruct” the traditional RTS format. By introducing a roguelike framework, they aim to provide meaningful choices while allowing for iterative progress and discovery. This design philosophy promises quicker rewards that cater to a newer generation of gamers who appreciate both strategy and experimentation without the commitment of long play sessions.
The Balancing Act of Innovation
Despite the enthusiasm around Project Citadel, we must consider the potential pitfalls of merging genres. The gaming landscape has been flooded with titles claiming to infuse roguelike elements into various genres, leading to a risk of formulaic gameplay. Will Project Citadel succeed in crafting a unique experience, or will it succumb to the repetitive mechanics that often plague such hybrids? While the idea of integrating deeper gameplay elements with randomization is certainly appealing, execution will be key. The combination could either enrich the gaming experience or dilute the essence of strategic thinking, which is the lifeblood of any RTS.
The concerns surrounding Project Citadel echo sentiments from previous projects like Servo, which also sought to blend RTS gameplay with RPG elements. Though Servo debuted with promise, it was ultimately unable to deliver a full-fledged experience. It begs the question: can Project Citadel rise above the disappointment of its predecessors and truly forge a new path for the RTS genre?
An Indie Spirit with High Ambitions
One of the defining features of Project Citadel is its humble indie roots. With a development team numbering between 2 and 10, Last Keep embodies the spirit of indie game development, taking risks where larger studios may hesitate. Sengamalay and his crew are aware of their limitations; they aren’t simply trying to replicate past successes but instead are searching for uncharted territories in the vast universe of RTS gaming.
This ambition is commendable, especially in an industry often dominated by colossal budgets and established franchises. The drive to innovate shines brighter coming from a small team unwilling to merely reskin old ideas. Instead, they strive to develop something that reflects a new gaming age—one where quick sessions and robust gameplay are celebrated.
Looking Ahead to the Future
While the landscape for RTS games has been defined by remakes and spiritual successors, Project Citadel’s approach to merging traditional tactics with modern flare holds promise. As an elder enthusiast of games like Age of Mythology and Halo Wars, I find myself rooting for projects that foreshadow a stronger rebirth for the genre.
With the uncertainty of release dates and final product features ahead, the gaming community is left in anticipation. Can Project Citadel break the mold and offer a refreshing take on an established format? Only time will tell, but it’s this very uncertainty that makes the gaming world so thrilling. The essence of strategy games, constantly evolving yet rooted in time-honored principles, invites players to embark on epic journeys of discovery—one tactical encounter at a time.
Leave a Reply