RTS Games Stuck in the Past Says Age of Empires Dev Pushing for Change

As a long-time fan of real-time strategy (RTS) games, I can’t help but be thrilled about Dave Pottinger’s new project, Project Citadel. His journey in shaping Age of Empires and Halo Wars has given him a unique perspective on the genre, one that is now being channeled into something truly groundbreaking.

His reminiscences of the development team’s hesitation to innovate with Age of Empires 3 resonate with me, as I too remember the apprehension when significant changes were proposed. The removal of formation-based combat was a loss for many players like myself who craved novelty in our strategy games.

Now, Pottinger is stepping up to the plate and challenging the status quo. Project Citadel seems poised to redefine RTS gaming with its intriguing blend of space-based roguelike elements and procedural maps. The turn-based overmap and fast-paced action with skill-shot special abilities are a breath of fresh air, offering an entirely new experience from traditional RTS games.

The potential success of Project Citadel could be a game-changer for the genre. It might just be the kick in the pants that other developers need to start thinking outside the box and move beyond the tired formulas that have defined RTS gaming for years. And who knows, maybe it’ll even teach us old timers a thing or two about adapting to change!

In all seriousness, though, let’s hope that Project Citadel doesn’t remove formation-based combat again – I still haven’t quite gotten over that one… But hey, if it means innovation and progress for the RTS genre, I’m all in!

Dave Pottinger, renowned for his contributions to Age of Empires and Halo Wars, opines that real-time strategy (RTS) games have seen limited progress over the last two decades. He points out that numerous contemporary releases continue to adhere to formulas established long ago. Although these fundamental rules remain potent, Pottinger emphasizes a need for fresh ideas in this genre.

Looking back on his time with Age of Empires, Pottinger remembers instances where the development team was hesitant to implement major changes due to concerns about player reactions. An example of this is when they decided to take out formation-based combat from Age of Empires 3 following its demonstration at E3, as they were worried it might upset longtime players.

In a brand new venture, Project Citadel spearheaded by Pottinger, is underway. This project is geared towards revitalizing Real-Time Strategy (RTS) games with innovative concepts. The upcoming game integrates roguelike mechanics set in space, alongside dynamic maps that are generated procedurally. Instead of the conventional RTS gaming experience, this title promises something different. Key features encompass a turn-based overhead map and rapid-fire action complemented by special abilities requiring skillful shots. Players are tasked with exploring Voltari space, seeking to overthrow oppressive rule in the sector. A distinctive artifact enables the player’s mothership and team to regenerate, introducing an extra layer of strategy and replay value.

In terms of significant shifts, the Real-Time Strategy (RTS) genre has been relatively stagnant since its heyday. Numerous modern efforts to rejuvenate the genre have found it difficult to leave a lasting impression. However, Project Citadel by Pottinger aims to challenge traditional norms and bring fresh elements into RTS gaming.

The project known as Citadel is anticipated to debut in its early access phase, offering a fully playable campaign. The team at Last Keep Studios, led by Pottinger, are determined to provide an original experience that defies conventional Real-Time Strategy (RTS) rules. Their goal is to breathe new life into the genre, appealing not only to seasoned players but also to those just starting their RTS journey.

As I delve deeper into this captivating project, I can’t help but feel like we’re paving a fresh path for Real-Time Strategy (RTS) games. If our efforts prove fruitful, it could inspire fellow developers to think outside the box and experiment with innovative strategies, ultimately breaking free from the well-worn formulas that have shaped this genre for eons.

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2025-01-02 04:44