Homeworld 3 developer update introduces ‘flavor layer’

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Homeworld and its sequel were real-time strategy games that stuck in the memory mainly because of the atmosphere they were able to create through dialogue, music choices, and amazing ship designs. I mentally described the upcoming Homeworld 3 sequel as “more of the same, but better looking”, without giving it much thought.

A new development update from the developers at Blackbird Interactive doesn’t so much prove me wrong as go into great detail about what “looking better” really means – while also getting me excited about a new “flavor layer” for ship-to-ship communication.

First, the post gives a very brief overview of Homeworld 3’s cinematic, which was previously introduced for the first time and features “full 3D characters with English lip-syncing.”

He later takes a look at the biomes, mothership lighting, nebulae, and all the work that goes into “bringing ‘terrain’ to a space battle” in Homeworld 3.

“In Homeworld 3, you’ll fight your fair share of battles in a cold, dark place,” the post reads. “but [Physical Based Rendering] It allows us to create levels that each have their own unique visual identity and near-realistic realism. You’ll command fleets in orbit low above the planets, or explore ancient ruins that float above a churning sea of ​​clouds. And in each of these environments, your ship’s materials will interact with light with a level of realism that, frankly, feels a little intimidating (yes, I’m a little biased here).”

It all sounds appealing, but somehow it’s radio chatter that turns me on the most. When commands are given to units in Homeworld 3, they will respond aloud in two ways. The first is via the ship’s commander, who will be “brief, clearly audible at all ranges of distances”, and give the player feedback on the situation. This is the “information layer”. Then a second voice will follow, the ship’s tactical officer, who will deliver “contextual conversational utterances” that players won’t hear unless you put the camera within range. This “flavor layer” is designed to humanize your units.

Notably, units will talk to each other, not to you as their all-knowing commander, and will go back and forth about what’s going on. You can drop in mid-conversation as you zoom around the battlefield.

Watching these videos and reading the full developer update makes me realize: Maybe Homeworld 3 will be more Homeworld but better looking and sounding better, but what a treat it could be if it was true. Blackbird aims to launch in February 2024.

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