Relic Space combines together smooth turn-based movement (think like Jupiter Hell) with tactical combat, RPG mechanics and 4X elements. With Native Linux support, this could be your next game?
Taking place in the year 2612, Relic Space features over 40 distinct regions that you can explore while customizing and upgrading your ships. Beyond grid-based, tactical turn-based combat familiar to fans of traditional roguelikes, Relic Space also features realistic damage (think BattleTech) with status effects for individual items. Each weapon, engine or utility item can catch fire, leak power, and generally be buffed and debuffed. Equipment items also affect the ship in unique ways – including manual adjustments for heat and energy levels.
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Speaking about the game, developer Jonah Wilberg said "Relic Space is very much inspired by classic roguelikes like Angband as well as more recent fare like Cogmind and Approaching Infinity. But I really push the boundaries of roguelike tradition by mixing in 3D visuals, the narrative depth of classic RPGs, and Newtonian physics. It’s been the challenge of translating physics-based, starship movement onto a hex-grid that has allowed me to really innovate with respect to the core, turn-based combat loop – creating a system that (as I’ve heard from those who played the demo) feels really fresh while still being intuitive. I can’t wait to build on all this with the growing community after the Early Access release."
Game Features:
- Tactical turn-based space combat: Use your tactical skills on a hex grid with fast-paced ‘one-tile-per-turn’ mechanics – inspired by traditional roguelikes but with a fluid, modern feel.
- Deep simulation: Realistic combat mechanics simulate damage to individual ship components. Each weapon, engine or utility item can catch fire, leak power, and acquire many more status effects. You will also need to manage heat, energy and fuel levels by making smart movement and equipment choices.
- Non-linear exploration: Freely traverse a procedurally generated solar system with handcrafted elements; 4 main factions and 7 minor factions pursue research, trade, construction projects, and other goals.
- Flexible development: Use your growing reputation and influence to acquire more powerful ships and equip them with countless weapon and utility combinations. Acquire new piloting abilities through a flexible skill tree, and research relics to unlock new powers and equipment.
- Immersive setting: Uncover a rich, branching narrative threaded with endless procedurally generated stories in a detailed setting inspired by hard sci-fi.
- Real space: Movement rules based on actual space physics: motion in a straight line is free – but turning, starting or stopping costs energy.
Available now in Early Access with Linux support on Steam. There's also a demo on itch.io.
I haven't had patience for the space sims, so I can't compare properly. But everything is closer together, so completing missions doesn't necessarily take that long.
Also as a bonus, Relic Space most likely releases before Space Citizen.
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