Summary
Star Wars Eclipseis an upcoming title from Quantic Dream, the studio behind narrative-driven experiences likeDetroit: Become HumanandHeavy Rain. WhileStar Warsgames have traditionally focused on the more action-packed aspects of the franchise, this developer’s expertise in storytelling opens the door for a fresh perspective. With the potential to explore the political intricacies of the universe,Star Wars Eclipsecan offer a new angle unseen in previous games.
Quantic Dream was expandedwith a North American branch of the studio containing developers who have previously worked at companies like Square Enix Montreal and Ubisoft Montreal for assisting with gameplay elements outside just dialogue alone on Eclipse. However, this game should still be expected to be a cinematically-driven experience which keeps Quantic Dream’s signature style at the forefront.Star Warstitles have typically emphasized Jedi, troopers, or bounty hunters in combat scenarios, but this game could break the mold by focusing on a senator or similar politician. While the politics of the galaxy have always been crucial to the series' narrative, players have seldom had the chance to engage with them directly.
Star Wars Games Have Almost Always Focused Primarily on Action
It’s not surprising that mostStar Warslicensed gameshave revolved around the dynamic combat and thrilling set pieces that come with going on missions as a Jedi Knight or wielding blasters at war. Racing games, RPGs, and first-person shooters have long dominated theStar Warsgaming catalog, leaving little room for titles that delve into the quieter, more political aspects of the universe instead of catering to the action-oriented expectations of the general fanbase.
TheStar Wars Eclipsereveal trailermight showcase part of an epic space battle sequence in a pre-rendered cinematic, but the actual moment-to-moment gameplay is more likely to focus on intimate, narrative-driven experiences typical of Quantic Dream. This style of more intimate and introspective mechanics could be a perfect fit for exploring aStar Warsfantasy that hasn’t been fully realized in gaming: playing as a senator during a thriving time of the Republic, where decisions in the political arena can have their own sense of grand repercussions.
Playing as a Senator During Star Wars Eclipse’s High Republic Era
The role of a senator could support meaningful decision-making with emotional weight, providing a refreshing contrast to the large-scale battles usually depicted inStar Warsgames. The continued application of Quantic Dream’s tradition of featuringmultiple playable characters inStar Wars Eclipsecould easily incorporate a politician of the Republic, allowing for a balance of intrigue and action which accurately reflects the greater worldbuilding of the IP.
The High Republic is Perfect for a Senator Protagonist
With the relative peace and flourishing of the Jedi Order during the time of the High Republic, there is a rich backdrop for political drama where the stakes are just as high, if not much higher, than in traditional combat situations. There’s undeniable excitement in stepping into the shoes of a powerful Jedi on the battlefield, but now there can also be the opportunity for players to understand the more intricate power dynamics which govern the entire galaxy through senate meetings and private scheming.
Simulating the life of a senator in theStar Warsgalaxy could pose unique challenges in terms of scale and the representation of authority within the limits of a game engine. On the other hand, the time in development since the reveal suggests that the studio might be aiming for a moreambitious scope inStar Wars Eclipsethan initially anticipated. If Quantic Dream can effectively blend its narrative expertise with the skills of its expanded studio team, featuring the perspective of a senator could introduce a compelling interplay of moral dilemmas to the world ofEclipse.
Star Wars Eclipse
WHERE TO PLAY
FROM AWARD-WINNING INDEPENDENT STUDIO QUANTIC DREAM AND LUCASFILM GAMEScomesStar WarsEclipse™, a new action-adventure, multiple-character branching narrative game set in the High Republic era of the iconicStar Wars™ galaxy, now early in development.Weave a tapestry of interlaced destiniesSee the galaxy through the eyes of an ensemble cast of multiple, charismatic playable characters, each with their own morality, personality, motivations, and impact upon each other and the story at large.Compose an originalStar Wars™ storyWith all-new characters and environments, you have the power to make choices with consequences thanks to many outcomes in this deeply branching narrative.Shape your fate in the Outer RimIn an uncharted section of the galaxy with never-before-seen species and planets to discover, this part of the Outer Rim is rife with opportunity – and political tensions that could alter the fabric of peace. What will you do?
