Set for an August 27 release on PC, PS5, and Xbox Series X/S, Star Wars: Zero Company is a turn-based tactical adventure developed by Bit Reactor. While initial expectations dismissed the title as a simple sci-fi reskin, hands-on previews reveal a cinematic, approachable RPG blending squad management with deep tactical skirmishes.
Behind the Scenes at Bit Reactor: The Team Building ZCOM
Helmed by XCOM and Marvel’s Midnight Suns veteran Greg Foertsch and staffed by roughly 20 other former Firaxis developers, the studio set out to merge nail-biting turn-based tactical combat with the rich, cinematic storytelling found in roleplaying pillars like Mass Effect and Knights of the Old Republic.
Rather than relying purely on procedural generation, the game introduces a properly linear narrative. Players step into the boots of Hawks, a former Republic officer turned mercenary-slash-spy. While Hawks comes with a fixed backstory, players have deep customization options, choosing from six different species, full male or female voice acting, and distinct cosmetic features like facial markings and hairstyles. Hired by a Republic spymaster, Hawks must investigate a shadowy threat known as the Infinite Coil.
“It’s truly the perfect pairing,” game director Greg Foertsch said during a group presentation. “Honestly, you couldn’t believe that this hadn’t been done before.”
Greg Foertsch, Game Director via eurogamer.net
Tactical Combat and Squad Dynamics on the Ground
Beneath the Star Wars branding, the mechanical foundation of Zero Company offers a tighter, more focused take on traditional squad tactics. Players command a maximum of four operatives per mission, alongside anyone rescued in the field. Departing from the classic two-action-point formula, each character receives three action points per turn to reposition, attack, or establish overwatch cones.
Successfully landing attacks builds a shared pool of advantage points, which squadmates can spend on devastating character-specific abilities like rocket launcher barrages or sweeping blaster fire. Players can mix and match a diverse roster featuring medics, marksmen, astromech droids, jetpack-jumping Mandalorians, and even junior Jedi.
However, adaptation is mandatory. Furthermore, the game introduces permanent death for squad members. When an operator falls in battle, the campaign continues without them, leaving behind a sad hologram on the ship’s memorial board—though if Hawks dies, it triggers an immediate game over.
Life Aboard The Den and Exploring the Galaxy
Between missions, the crew operates out of an abandoned cargo ship called The Den, which berths on the Ring of Kafrene.
Players can upgrade facilities like the medbay and armoury, manage weapon loadouts, and recruit new operators. Zero Company grants players the freedom to choose their contracts, though certain core story missions demand prompt attention.
With its mix of handcrafted story characters and custom mercenaries spanning over 150 planets, Bit Reactor aims to bridge the gap between hardcore genre veterans and casual franchise fans. The game is set after the Clone Wars during the rise of the Empire between Episodes III and IV.
