Homeworld 3
A 3D space RTS continuing the Homeworld saga.
Homeworld 3 is a 3D real-time strategy video game set in space, developed by Blackbird Interactive and published by Gearbox Software. Released on May 13, 2024, it is the direct sequel to Homeworld 2 and continues the saga of the Hiigaran fleet. The game features an extensive campaign mode, a 3D ballistics system, and new gameplay elements such as massive megaliths and trenches that provide coverage for small spacecraft.
Quick Facts
- Title
- Homeworld 3
- Developer
- Blackbird Interactive
- Publisher
- Gearbox Publishing
- Composer
- Paul Ruskay
- Platforms
- Windows
- Release
- May 13, 2024
- Genre
- Real-time strategy
- Director
- Rob Cunningham · Rory McGuire · Aaron Kambeitz · Lance Mueller
- Producer
- Eric Torin · Iain Myers-Smith
- Programmer
- Reevan McKay
- Artist
- Karl Gryc
- Writer
- David J. Williams
Facts from the source article.
Lore & Background
Homeworld 3 is set after the Hiigaran victory over the Vaygr, which led to a golden age lasting over a century. During this time, a vast hyperspace gate network built by an ancient race called the Progenitors was discovered. A new danger known as 'the Anomaly' emerged, causing disruptions in the network. Karan S'jet, the original Fleet Command, led a fleet to investigate and disappeared. Twenty years later, her chosen successor Imogen S'jet becomes Fleet Command for a new Mothership, the Khar-Kushan. Upon launch, the Khar-Kushan learns that an unknown threat is weaponizing hyperspace in the Anomaly. The fleet sets course for Noctuua-27, believed to be the source, but is diverted and damaged. The enemy is revealed as the Incarnate, using salvaged Progenitor technology and bound to a 'Queen' named Tiaa'Ma, an ancient being who seeks to bend reality. Imogen follows a message from Karan to find the lost Mothership Khar-Sajuuk, where Karan is alive. They learn they must bring Tiaa'Ma the three original Hyperspace Cores to break her control. Imogen deceives Tiaa'Ma, delivers the Cores, and traps the Lament in hyperspace as Karan sacrifices herself. The fleet is stranded in deep space but follows Imogen as Fleet Command.
Reader's Guide
Homeworld 3 represents the return of a landmark real-time strategy franchise after a long dormancy. The series originated in 1999, and following THQ's purchase of the intellectual property rights, further developments halted after Homeworld 2 in 2003. The rights were bought from THQ by Gearbox Software in 2013. The positive reception of the Homeworld Remastered Collection and the sales performance of Homeworld: Deserts of Kharak convinced Gearbox and Blackbird Interactive to create a new game in direct continuity with the original saga. Development began around 2017, and a successful mixed crowdfunding/investment campaign on Fig in late 2019 generated the highest donation average in the platform's history. Key personnel from the original Relic studio, including design director Rob Cunningham, score creator Paul Ruskay, and writer Martin Cirulis, worked on the game. The game received 'generally favorable' reviews on Metacritic, with OpenCritic reporting 70% critic recommendation. However, Steam user ratings were categorized as 'Mostly Negative'. Post-launch, two DLC packs were moved to November 2024, alongside free updates, but on November 18, 2024, Blackbird Interactive announced that the update released three days later would be the game's last.
Did You Know?
- Homeworld 3 was released on May 13, 2024, after multiple delays from an initial target of the first half of 2023.
- The game's development team included about 40 people, with key personnel from the original Relic studio.
- The Fig crowdfunding campaign for Homeworld 3 generated the highest donation average in the platform's history.
- The game's last update was released on November 21, 2024, as announced by Blackbird Interactive on November 18.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Homeworld 3?
Homeworld 3 is a 3D space-based real-time strategy game that picks up directly after the events of Homeworld 2, following the Hiigaran fleet's continuing saga. It was built by Blackbird Interactive and shipped by Gearbox Software on May 13, 2024.
What are Homeworld 3's key gameplay mechanics?
The title introduces a true 3D ballistics system for projectile weapons and adds tactical terrain elements such as massive megaliths and trenches that small craft can tuck behind for cover. These features layer a new dimension of positioning and cover-based strategy onto the space combat.
How long is Homeworld 3's campaign?
The single-player campaign is extensive in scope, carrying a lengthy narrative arc written by Martin Cirulis. It continues the Hiigaran storyline straight from where Homeworld 2 concluded, with no time-skip or reboot.
Why is Homeworld 3 important to the franchise?
After roughly sixteen years since the original Homeworld 2, this entry finally delivered the long-awaited direct sequel, capping off a development cycle that began around 2017. It re-established the Hiigaran saga as an active series and brought the 3D space-RTS formula back to modern audiences.
Who are the key creative minds behind Homeworld 3?
Rob Cunningham led the project as design director, Martin Cirulis authored the story, and Paul Ruskay composed the musical score. The game was produced by Blackbird Interactive and published by Gearbox Software.
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