Coming soon to a digital battlefield near you, Defcon Zero is a new real-time strategy game in development by the good folks at TriArts Games. As an upcoming title in the burgeoning indie RTS scene, Defcon Zero has already grabbed our attention with a promise to stay true to classic RTS elements while introducing new mechanics and design features.
Despite the limited information known about the game so far, the team at TriArts Games have been actively sharing development progress updates with the community over on their Discord. It was only this month that they announced the name of the game along with an official teaser trailer on YouTube.
One key area of focus from TriArts Games has been on the user interface and control scheme. Defcon Zero is being developed in Unreal Engine 5 and the aim is to provide players with a high degree of control over their gameplay experience. TriArts Games have also committed to a detailed experience with both infantry and vehicles. Infantry units are designed with military enthusiasts in mind including familiar mechanics alongside promised innovations. Infantry are purported to hold strategic value and not just be the ‘meat shield’ they often are in games of this ilk. Vehicles have seen significant attention with TriArts promising that players will “feel every wheel and every bump on the road, making the battlefield come alive like never before.” Defcon Zero will feature both heavy and light vehicles with the physics of the different archetypes providing a realistic and engaging experience.
The resource management system has been finalised with TriArts Games aiming to stay true to classic RTS principles with strategic elements being introduced to make the experience of Defcon Zero both rewarding and challenging. We can also expect a deep and innovate narrative which lends itself to a rich and engaging story for players.
One thing I really enjoy about the TriArts Games approach to development is their commitment to community engagement. With over 1000 people currently following the game’s development on their Discord server, the team are consciously taking this opportunity to glean gameplay ideas from potential customers. We see this a lot with indie developers, as it’s great to see TriArts Games sticking to the same positive methods employed by other indie studios. You should head over and check them out. Tell them I said “hi”. By engaging with the RTS community, seeking feedback and suggestions, whilst being transparent about their progress, TriArts Games have the potential to develop a strong connection with their audience.
What’s Next for Defcon Zero?
One thing which any successful game launch needs it a Steam page. Currently Defcon Zero doesn’t have one but TriArts Games are actively working on getting this essential component up and running. This, alongside their Discord server, will serve as the primary hub for news, gameplay videos and community interaction. As soon as the Steam page drops we’ll share the news on these pages. As development progresses we can anticipate more detailed reveals. What are the games’s factions? What is it’s story and setting? All questions yet to be answered.
What we do know is that Defcon Zero has got bags of potential. TriArts Games are a small team of highly experienced and passionate RTS gamers. I can’t wait to see what they have in store. Defcon Zero seems to be moving away from the inclusionary and accessibility designs of other games which are in development and focusing on a true faithful and classic RTS experience. Stay tuned and prepare for battle!
