Gamescom, the world’s largest gaming event, once again took over Cologne, Germany this August, and among the sea of exciting titles on display, one game stood out as a potential genre-revitalizer: Stormgate. Developed by Frost Giant Studios, a team comprised of RTS veterans from Blizzard Entertainment, Stormgate aims to breathe new life into the real-time strategy genre.
A Glimpse into the Future of RTS
During our visit to Gamescom 2024, we had the opportunity to meet with the passionate developers behind Stormgate and get hands-on with the game. The enthusiasm of the team was palpable as they guided us through the intricacies of their creation. Stormgate’s booth, located in the bustling Hall 10.1, drew consistent crowds throughout the event. The game was available for attendees to play, showcasing its free-to-play Early Access build that launched just weeks before the convention.
Gameplay That Honors the Past, Embraces the Future
Our playtime with Stormgate revealed a game that feels both familiar and fresh. The core RTS mechanics that genre fans know and love are present, but Frost Giant has introduced several innovations to make the game more accessible to newcomers. One standout feature is the “BuddyBot,” an AI assistant that helps manage your economy and base-building. This clever addition allows players to focus more on strategy and combat without getting bogged down in micromanagement.
Three Factions, Endless Possibilities
Stormgate offers three distinct factions: the Human Vanguard, the Infernal Host, and the Celestial Armada. Each faction brings its own unique playstyle and aesthetic to the battlefield, ensuring diverse and engaging matches.
A Bright Future for RTS
After our time with Stormgate at Gamescom 2024, it’s clear that Frost Giant Studios is on track to deliver a game that could reignite passion for the RTS genre. With its blend of classic mechanics and modern innovations, Stormgate has the potential to appeal to both longtime strategy fans and newcomers alike. As the game continues to evolve through its Early Access period, we’re excited to see how Stormgate will shape the future of real-time strategy games. If our experience at Gamescom is any indication, RTS enthusiasts have a lot to look forward to.
