The developers at Stratosphere Games faced a major challenge in adapting the popular PC RTS franchise, Homeworld, to mobile devices. However, they have managed to create an impressive game that not only works well on mobile but also stays true to the essence of the Homeworld legacy. In addition to the familiar strategy gameplay, Homeworld Mobile incorporates MMO elements that promote a sense of community cooperation. Players share a persistent galaxy and support each other in combat and resource gathering.
During an interview with our website, Stratosphere Games CEO Kristian Metzger discussed the team's approach to bringing Homeworld to mobile. He highlighted the difficulties involved in creating a mobile game that maintains the complexity of the original real-time strategy franchise. Metzger emphasized the importance of preserving Homeworld's most recognizable qualities without compromise. Furthermore, he mentioned the close collaboration between the Homeworld Mobile team and the team behind Homeworld 3 at Blackbird Interactive, in order to develop a unified narrative.
Homeworld Mobile Successfully Brings the PC Franchise to Mobile
The Homeworld games offer a more intricate UI and strategy compared to typical real-time strategy games, thanks to the complex tactics involved in fleet-based combat. However, executing commands using thumbs on mobile devices can be incredibly challenging. To address this issue, the UI designer of Homeworld Mobile implemented a target list approach similar to EVE Online. This allows players to easily navigate through friendly and hostile targets and execute commands from a convenient list, eliminating the need for frantic tapping on moving targets.
Adapting the controls of a PC RTS series like Homeworld for mobile devices posed significant challenges. Through multiple iterations and feedback, a target list emerged as the optimal control experience. Our UI designer continuously iterated and tested various methods, and although we are pleased with the current results, we are always striving to find even better ways to control the battlefield.
The art style and music are crucial to the essence of Homeworld. We made sure to capture these elements without making any compromises. Notice the trails? We had lengthy discussions on how to incorporate this unique visual aspect into the game while maintaining clarity.
In Homeworld Mobile, we have taken special care to preserve the distinctive art style of the Homeworld series in both the visuals and audio. Each ship in Homeworld Mobile's arsenal seamlessly fits into any other Homeworld game, and even the smallest details like engine trails, which are a signature of the series, have been given careful attention. The music, sound effects, and radio chatter during combat or when executing commands should all feel incredibly familiar to longtime fans of Homeworld who are well-acquainted with the series' audio.
Homeworld Mobile and Homeworld 3 Worked Together On Narrative Cohesion
Homeworld 3's impending release has sparked excitement, and Stratosphere Games has worked closely with Blackbird Interactive to ensure that Homeworld Mobile's story aligns with Homeworld 3. While the exact nature of their connection remains to be seen, it is thrilling to witness the expansion of Homeworld's narrative since the release of Deserts of Kharak. The collaboration between our teams, particularly regarding narrative coherence, has been intense. Whirlpool and Nimbus are two key events that have been intricately woven together. Throughout the project's inception, we have consistently consulted with Blackbird Interactive and Gearbox to ensure that both games seamlessly fit into the Homeworld franchise. Gearbox, in particular, emphasized the importance of catering to Homeworld fans while also making the game accessible to newcomers.
Homeworld Mobile is currently hosting an anniversary event to mark the game's first year and also commemorate the 22nd anniversary of the original Homeworld game. This special occasion includes engaging narrative-based missions and a comprehensive game update that brings significant enhancements to the overall gaming experience. With the availability of Homeworld Remastered games, the upcoming release of Homeworld 3, and the convenience of Homeworld Mobile on mobile devices, there has never been a better time to be a fan of real-time space strategy. Best of all, Homeworld Mobile can be enjoyed for free on mobile platforms.