In the realm of real-time strategy (RTS) games, a curious phenomenon has emerged: the genre’s initial allure, rooted in high-quality singleplayer campaigns, often seems overshadowed by the focus on competitive multiplayer and esports. This shift in emphasis has left many fans feeling somewhat neglected. A recent example is Stormgate, a title crafted by industry veterans that aimed to rekindle the nostalgia of classics like Warcraft 3 and StarCraft 2. However, its launch was marred by an incomplete and uninspired campaign, leading to ongoing struggles in capturing players’ attention.
Emphasizing Narrative in Dawn of War 4
In contrast, Dawn of War 4 appears to be taking a different approach. Jan Theysen, the creative director and game director at King Art, emphasizes the studio’s commitment to narrative-driven experiences. “We are known for making narrative-driven games, and the campaign for Iron Harvest was very well received,” he notes. This feedback from players has significantly shaped the development of Dawn of War 4, with a clear focus on delivering compelling singleplayer content.
Rather than limiting the game to a single campaign, the team at King Art has opted for a more ambitious structure. “We had this idea, instead of just having a Space Marine campaign, or maybe one campaign where everybody has some little bits and pieces, let’s actually have a big campaign for each of the four factions,” Theysen explains. This decision not only adds depth but also introduces dynamic elements, allowing for optional missions and meaningful player choices that impact the narrative.
The result is an impressive offering of four substantial campaigns, complemented by a tutorial to ease players into the experience. This dedication to singleplayer content is echoed by senior game designer Elliott Verbiest, who acknowledges the importance of multiplayer modes but reiterates the lasting impact of singleplayer campaigns on players’ memories and preferences within the genre.
While multiplayer will certainly play a significant role in Dawn of War 4, the developers are keenly aware of the nostalgia that singleplayer experiences evoke. The game promises to deliver over 70 missions across its four distinct campaigns, a generous offering that aims to resonate with both long-time fans and newcomers alike.
