At the Star Wars Celebration in Japan, Electronic Arts unveiled the highly anticipated game Star Wars: Zero Company, a single-player tactics game set during the tumultuous twilight of the Clone Wars. Scheduled for release in 2026 on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, and PC, this new title is developed by Respawn Entertainment in collaboration with Bit Reactor, a studio formed by veterans of the acclaimed Firaxis Games.
Greg Foertsch, CEO and creative director at Bit Reactor, shared insights about the game during the panel, emphasizing the design pillars that will shape the gameplay experience. "Our vision for Star Wars: Zero Company is grounded in gameplay design pillars that weave in the immersive Star Wars galaxy with engaging turn-based tactics gameplay," Foertsch stated in a press release sent to GamesBeat. He highlighted the aim to deliver an original Star Wars story from the Clone Wars era, where player choices will have meaningful outcomes.
Players will take on the role of Hawks, a customizable former Republic officer, who leads an unconventional team of operatives known as Zero Company. This squad is tasked with undertaking high-stakes missions across the galaxy, where players can tailor their squadmates' appearances, load-outs, and abilities across a variety of character archetypes including Clone Troopers, astromechs, and even Jedi.
In Star Wars: Zero Company, players will experience a deep level of customization and strategy. The game will feature permadeath, meaning that characters can die permanently, adding a layer of tension and consequence to player decisions. Foertsch confirmed this aspect of gameplay, stating, "You can absolutely do both"—appealing to both new players and hardcore strategy fans.
Foertsch elaborated on the game's structure, which allows players to develop their base of operations and gather intelligence through a network of informants. This strategic gameplay mirrors the beloved mechanics seen in the XCOM series, leading many to refer to Star Wars: Zero Company as the "Star Wars XCOM game." The game will also include a cast of authored characters, each with their own personalities and backstories, who contribute to the narrative and gameplay experience.
As players navigate through the game's missions, they will encounter various locations and challenges that reflect the complexities of the Clone Wars. The game promises to deliver a gritty and authentic story, blending the political intrigue of Andor with the action-packed battles reminiscent of Rogue One.
During the panel, Foertsch noted, "This is a Star Wars game where you can really have a found family. You’re playing with multiple characters, leveling them up, building their relationships and their bonds." This theme of camaraderie is central to the game's narrative, as players will forge strong connections with their squadmates.
Moreover, the game will allow players to explore familiar and new locations across the galaxy, including planets that fans might recognize from the larger Star Wars universe. The developers aim to create environments that resonate with players, featuring deep cuts and references to the lore that dedicated fans will appreciate.
A key character in Zero Company is Trick, a clone soldier whose wit masks a haunted past. Alongside him is Luco Bronc, an Umbaran sharpshooter with a vendetta against the Republic, and Cly Kullervo, a Mandalorian gunslinger seeking revenge. The team also includes Tellia Trea, a Tognath Jedi Padawan on a mission to complete her fallen master’s last quest.
As players progress, they will return to The Den, Zero Company’s base of operations located on the Ring of Kafrene. Here, they can choose strategic tasks and tactical missions from an expansive galaxy map. The choices made by players will not only affect the gameplay but also shape the narrative, creating a unique experience with each playthrough.
Foertsch expressed his excitement for the project, stating, "This is such a perfect combination for me as a developer and as a fan. I can’t wait for people to see and experience that." The developers are committed to ensuring that Star Wars: Zero Company appeals to both newcomers to the genre and seasoned strategy enthusiasts, promising a game that is both cinematic and approachable.
As the anticipation builds for the game's release, fans are left eager to see how the tactical gameplay and rich storytelling will unfold in this new chapter of the Star Wars saga. With a release date set for 2026, Star Wars: Zero Company is poised to deliver a compelling blend of strategy, character development, and immersive storytelling that stands out in the vast universe of Star Wars games.
