In an exciting development for fans of real-time strategy games, Relic Entertainment is venturing into new territory with its upcoming title, Earth vs Mars. This project, crafted under the studio’s Relic Labs label, represents a shift from the grandiose scale of their renowned franchises, such as Company of Heroes and Dawn of War. Instead, it embraces a more indie-style approach, aiming to explore fresh sub-genres and foster creativity while enabling more frequent game releases.
Gameplay and Concept
Earth vs Mars presents a whimsical narrative where Martians, fed up with humanity’s antics, launch an invasion armed with a fleet of flying saucers and hover-tanks—classic staples of science fiction lore. The fate of Earth rests on the shoulders of the “Splice-O-Tron,” a groundbreaking technology that allows leaders to merge “volunteers” with terrestrial animals, creating formidable supersoldiers to bolster conventional military forces. The game teases intriguing units, including the airborne “cheetah-fly” and the unconventional “squirrel-cow infantry,” promising a blend of humor and strategy that could captivate players.
Relic’s Journey
Amidst a backdrop of significant changes, including the layoff of over 150 employees since mid-2023 and a transition in ownership from Sega to investment firm Emona Capital LLC in March 2024, Relic has expressed a desire to return to its roots as an independent creative studio. While this new ownership structure may seem paradoxical to the notion of independence, it marks a pivotal moment for Relic as it seeks to regain its footing in the gaming industry.
Looking Ahead
As Earth vs Mars takes shape, it signifies a fresh direction for Relic, focusing on a streamlined and accessible RTS experience. While the release date remains unconfirmed, the game is anticipated to launch this summer exclusively for PC, with potential plans for expansion to other platforms depending on its reception. This endeavor not only showcases Relic’s commitment to innovation but also its willingness to embrace a lighter, more playful approach to the genre that has defined its legacy.
