Project name: Archrebel Tactics.
Mission package name: Archrebel Tactics Demo Release.
Military encryption credentials: ANYY-1388-EDOP-HQ
Dear commanders,
The wait is finally over. I'm truly excited to announce that the Archrebel Tactics Steam demo is now available.
I hate calling it a "demo", because it's really a short game. It packs a mission designed specifically for it, with its own story and lore, a beginning and an ending, and a scoring system at the end of the mission. That "short" label only makes sense compared to the full release, which should offer roughly 100h+ of content. The demo alone takes 6-8 hours to complete, and 20h+ if you try all starting kits and class combinations.
I'm also exploring the possibility of adding a leaderboard, so players can compete for the best score.
What to expect in this short game?
As you may know, this game is heavily inspired by the classics Rebelstar and Laser Squad, carrying an extensive list of improvements and additions, and it grew considerably more complex than originally planned, because "one does not simply disable scope creep with ease" ;).
This short game is HARD, designed specifically to keep you busy and force you to master the mechanics in order to beat it. That's what I aimed for, anyway; I'm sure veterans of the genre will disagree.
The most noticeable features are as follows:
- The level up system
- 10 unlockable classes for human units
- Stamina and morale systems
- Localized wounds/damage system with 3 different levels of severity
- Upgradable items and armor, with three tiers of quality
- Dynamic weather with penalties
- 3 enemy categories: humans, wildlife and droids
- Dozens of items, many of which have unique mechanics.
You will start with a 4-man squad and can potentially increase it to 12 units if your strategy is sound. The game runs in Iron Mode, meaning it saves and overwrites your progress at the beginning of each turn, so take your time and think your moves through. Don't rush it!
Once you go through hell defeating all the enemies and rescuing your comrades, the last battle will be quite chill letting you have fun with the airstrike designator. My wife loves the last part, and I'm sure you will too. ;)
Final notes, and tips
I strongly encourage you to turn on the tutorial during your first playthrough, even if you played the first demo on itch.io, as there are many new mechanics in place, including the level-up system which is unique and needs explaining.
TIP 1: Use the Scan Goggles as much as you can, as they increase a target's vulnerability to damage and provide a considerable boost to XP earnings, making your units level up more often.
TIP 2: The energy shields! Don't forget to use them, especially during exploration. Remember, they not only reduce damage by half but also protect your units from critical hits.
TIP 3: Always prioritize defense. You don't want your units running out of action points while exposed to enemy fire. Keep your eyes on the Action Points pool in the units' status bar.
TIP 4: The Miner Droid is crucial. Use it to protect other units, and try to develop its melee capabilities :)
See you on the battlefield, Commanders!
Thank you for checking out Archrebel Tactics, and consider joining my Discord server to provide feedback and stay close to the game's development.
Stay safe! Ularis Badler.
