What's Happening?
Banners & Bastions, a mixed reality strategy game developed by Not Suspicious, has been released in early access on Meta Quest devices. The game combines elements of tower defense and real-time strategy, allowing players to interact with the battlefield by directing troop movements and deploying units. Players can cast spells and reposition troops during turn-based waves, observing battles from a top-down perspective. The game emphasizes hand tracking, requiring players to use gestures to control the game without traditional controllers. Banners & Bastions offers a progression system where players earn stars to unlock new troops and upgrades, aiming to climb global leaderboards. The game is available for $9.99 and is designed to provide a satisfying strategic experience without overwhelming casual players.
Why It's Important?
The release of Banners & Bastions in mixed reality represents a significant development in the gaming industry, particularly for strategy game enthusiasts. By leveraging hand tracking technology, the game offers a unique and immersive experience that could attract a broader audience to mixed reality gaming. This innovation may influence future game designs, encouraging developers to explore gesture-based controls and mixed reality environments. The game's early access model allows for community feedback, potentially shaping its final version and impacting its success. As mixed reality technology continues to evolve, Banners & Bastions could set a precedent for future titles, enhancing the appeal of VR and AR gaming platforms.
What's Next?
As Banners & Bastions progresses through its early access phase, developers will likely focus on refining hand tracking mechanics and addressing any limitations identified by players. Community feedback will be crucial in optimizing gameplay and ensuring a balanced experience. The game's success could lead to further collaborations with hardware companies, potentially integrating advanced technologies like eye-tracked pinches. Additionally, the developers may explore expanding the game's features, such as offering an interior view or first-person perspective, to enhance immersion. Continued updates and improvements will be essential to maintain player interest and drive sales.