Photo credit: venturebeat.com
Remnant Protocol is set to revive interest in sci-fi spaceflight simulators as it prepares for its VR launch on the Meta Quest Store and Steam in the upcoming fourth quarter.
This virtual reality title combines space flight simulation with a strategic component, placing players at the helm of a galactic rebellion. Originally introduced as a 2D game on Steam, Remnant Protocol has evolved to prioritize VR for its release, while also offering a 2D version for PC players.
Developed by the independent Progenitor Game Studios, based in Halifax, Nova Scotia, the game is described by its creators as a tribute to classic titles like TIE Fighter, X-Wing, and Elite Dangerous, entwining themes of rebellion, governance, and power dynamics. Creative Director Scott McCallum, reflecting on his passion for flight sims like Wing Commander and Rebel Assault, expresses enthusiasm for the nostalgic roots of the genre.
Time to pull out?
Although available on Steam for the past few years in its 2D format, the game is now transitioning into the VR space with the support of Meta as its publishing partner. VR is attracting attention from smaller game developers, bolstered by an estimated 51 million VR headsets currently in circulation (Statista).
McCallum founded Progenitor Game Studios after evolving from a hobbyist endeavor to a full-scale professional operation. He recounted how interest in the project grew, noting that “we put out an announcement teaser on Reddit and YouTube,” which caught the attention of Meta’s developer relations manager, Coray Seifert. Their conversation quickly progressed into a partnership after an extensive vetting process.
“Since then, we’ve been fully focused on this project, transitioning to full-time development,” McCallum shared. Currently, the studio consists of five dedicated team members.
“Initially, we were managing on our own resources, but with new funding from Meta, we’ve expanded our team to include additional artists and are actively seeking audio professionals to enhance the game’s soundscape,” he added.
Despite its serious tone, a humorous element emerged from a dragon featured in the game trailer, which received mixed reactions from viewers. McCallum remarked, “It was so poorly received that it became an ongoing joke within our community, with the dragon now hidden as an Easter Egg in the game.”
A narrative game
Set generations after the assassination of the Blessed Mother, players assume command of the Remnant forces committed to upholding their legacy. Operating from Sanctuary, a concealed rebel outpost, players engage in a guerrilla campaign against the dictatorial Usurpers controlling the galaxy. The aim is to build a covert movement capable of dismantling the oppressive regime via strategic sabotage and manipulation.
Gameplay revolves around orchestrating raids, forging alliances, developing ships, and exploring advanced technologies while leading your comrades into dogfights. Players must be both cunning and relentless, as they navigate the challenges of being outmatched by a sprawling empire.
The title’s name refers to the “remnant protocol,” triggering a call to action for followers to seek refuge in the wake of the Blessed Mother’s demise.
Gameplay overview
● **Rebellion on a galactic scale:** As the commander of Sanctuary, players face pivotal decisions impacting their long-term campaign strategies. Resource management across various operations—research, shipbuilding, espionage, and recruitment—will be crucial, making each choice significant for the galaxy’s future.
● **Intense dogfighting action:** Players can immerse themselves in fast-paced aerial combat, taking control of their own fighters. While the experience resonates with seasoned gamers familiar with classic space sims, newcomers will find accessible yet challenging gameplay.
● **You are being hunted:** Players’ actions to advance their objectives raise their profile and risk exposure. The ability to anticipate and respond to dynamic threats is vital for survival.
● **A living, breathing galaxy:** Various factions are vying for supremacy following the political upheaval created by the Blessed Mother’s death. Players’ decisions can influence the shifting alliances and hostilities within this turbulent environment.
● **Every campaign is unique:** Featuring procedurally generated missions and dynamic narratives, Remnant Protocol ensures that no two gameplay experiences are alike, thanks to a butterfly effect driven by player choices.
Approaching the market opportunity
Although Remnant Protocol will initially launch on Meta, it will eventually become available for PCVR and traditional 2D gameplay on Steam.
“We are also enhancing the PC version with VR-focused features. For players preferring PCVR, it should integrate seamlessly with high-performance setups,” McCallum explained. The game’s design roots in aviation make it suitable for head-tracking and eye-tracking, although translating interactive controls for VR presents its own set of challenges.
McCallum anticipates that the majority of VR players will utilize Meta Quest Touch controllers, enabling a tactile experience while navigating their spacecraft, though alternative setups with joysticks or gamepads are also viable options. The cockpit is meticulously crafted, occupying approximately 60% of the visual space, allowing flight simulation enthusiasts to appreciate its details.
Set to be compatible with the Meta Quest 2 and 3, the game is expected to retail for around $25 to $30, with the exact price yet to be finalized. Players can look forward to a campaign spanning about 20 hours, encompassing over 20 missions along with numerous side missions focused on espionage and resource acquisition. The narrative structure will allow players to make impactful decisions regarding conflict resolution and alliance formation.
The game offers aerial battles in a variety of environments, from ground-level skirmishes to outer space engagements against imposing imperial fleets. Players must balance combat with decision-making concerning peace negotiations and strategic retreats.
With significant development work still ahead, Progenitor Game Studios is open to input from playtesters through its Discord channel, keen on utilizing feedback to refine the game further.
As the market for VR flight simulations expands with titles such as Elite: Dangerous and Microsoft Flight Simulator, McCallum emphasizes the potential for Remnant Protocol, highlighting its unique blend of strategic decision-making layered over classic flight action. “This is not just about flying missions; it’s about directing the course of the rebellion as well. So far, the community response has been encouraging, but we await to see how it will perform in the broader market,” he concluded.
Source
venturebeat.com