Tags:
Owlcat Games;
Warhammer 40,000: Rogue Trader
Ever since we learned back in 2020 that Owlcat Games were hiring people to develop a turn-based science fiction RPG, there have been persistent rumors that said game would be set in the Warhammer 40,000 universe. I'm not sure if there was a basis for these rumors or if it was just wishful thinking, but when Owlcat
began teasing an announcement a couple of weeks before the annual Warhammer Skulls event, it became clear that they were quite true. Today they officially unveiled
Warhammer 40,000: Rogue Trader, an isometric turn-based RPG in which players will assume the role of a freewheeling space privateer tasked with expanding the borders of the Imperium into the uncharted Koronus Expanse. That's right, it's Pathfinder: Kingmaker IN SPACE. Here's the game's announcement trailer and the
accompanying post:
We are thrilled to announce Warhammer 40,000: Rogue Trader - the first classic roleplaying game with turn-based combat set in the grim darkness of the 41st millennium. The World Premiere, including the first glimpse of gameplay, was announced at the Warhammer Skulls Showcase. Those of you who are eager to get your hands on the early version of the game and help us with the development can obtain our Founder’s Packs; they are already available on the game’s
website.
This time you will take on the role of a Rogue Trader, a scion of an ancient dynasty of daring privateers that reign over their own merchant empire and explore the fringes of Imperial space with the blessing of the Emperor Himself. Thanks to their Warrant of Trade - the Rogue Trader is endowed with privileges and power beyond imagination as well as the task of expanding the borders of the Imperium. At their disposal is a gargantuan voidship of immense strength and innumerable personnel ready to follow any undertakings of the leader. Show your subjects mercy or disdain, stay faithful to the Emperor, or consort with enemies of Mankind - every decision and every act of the Rogue Trader sends ripples throughout entire star systems, changing the in-game world and those who inhabit it.
The action will unfold in the Koronus Expanse, a dangerous and unexplored region on the far frontiers of the Imperium of Man. Many explorers have fallen victim to this dangerous place and never returned.
Remarkable and sophisticated companions are one of the pillars of cRPGs, and Rogue Trader is not an exception. A mighty Space Marine, a mercurial Aeldari Ranger, or even a courageous Sister of Battle armed with bolter and ardent prayers are just a few of the many characters that will join the Rogue Trader during your adventures.
Starting today, you can support the game by purchasing one of the
Founder’s Packs. Become a part of the team behind Warhammer 40,000: Rogue Trader! Those who decide to support the developers early will gain access to the Alpha and Beta versions of the game, help the team to shape the experience with their feedback, and receive a set of unique rewards and items available only to early supporters.
It doesn't look like Rogue Trader is going to be crowdfunded, but it is
available for preorder with a number of Kickstarter-like tiers. You can grab the basic game including beta access for $40, a premium edition with preorder bonus items will cost you $50 and alpha access is available for $100. The game doesn't have a launch date yet, but the
preorder FAQ reveals that the alpha build will be available this year and that the beta is launching next year.
