Hello, gorgeous!

Exodus Wars: Fractured Empire is a turn-based strategy PC adaptation of the popular miniature tabletop game Exodus Wars. Like Warhammer 40K, Exodus Wars centers on a human empire in decay, fighting for survival in a dystopian future. Unlike the games based on W40K though, Fractured Empire is not a mainstream real-time strategy game.

Straight from their indiegogo.com campaign page, developers Membraine Studios declare their intention that “Exodus Wars: Fractured Empire will be the computer game tabletop wargamers have always wanted but have never seen made because wargaming is seen as too niche a market.” Right on!

Contrary to the more mainstream direction Relic took with the Dawn of War games, Membraine Studios are looking to provide an accurate representation of tabletop gaming. This means highly tactical play that rewards planning and timely maneuvers. The developers are also intent on preserving the feel of tabletop games and thus units will be freely movable, not limited to grids or hexes.

The game is currently about 40% done according to Membraine Studios’ own estimate. From the trailers available, the game engine looks complete, though cosmetic details such as weapons effects still need to be developed. It’s hard not to notice a certain behemoth never firing even though it features in many of the promotional videos. The oomph of one of those beasts firing could do wonders for their fundraising (hint hint).

Even at this stage of development though, the game looks amazing. Model details are fantastic and the textures on some of the tanks are crisp and clean. Scattered battlefield ruins are a nice touch and suggest cover might play a role in the final game. The command interface looks reasonably intuitive and unit formations are nicely maintained on the move while still looking dynamic.

This is one to watch for any tabletop wargamer. While Dawn of War was an excellent real-time strategy series, there hasn’t been a true representation of wargaming yet. Fractured Empire is promising both because of it’s already substantial progress and because of it’s clearly defined vision. Most importantly though, “Seeing and hearing your units move, fire and (frequently!) explode is priceless.” Amen to that.

Exodus Wars: Fractured Empire is currently fundraising at indiegogo.com with 14 days left in their campaign to raise $35,000. Like most crowd-funded games, there’s a nice list of perks for various levels of contribution.