Photo credit: venturebeat.com
Vanguard Exiles, the upcoming project from Magic: The Gathering creator Richard Garfield, is set to enter early access on Steam starting March 11.
Developed by the Australian studio The Tea Division, this digital board game introduces an innovative twist to the auto battler genre. Players can expect a unique competitive strategy experience with fresh scenarios in each match, making every turn distinct.
Characterized as “a board game that can’t be a board game,” Vanguard Exiles features a dynamic playing surface that reshapes itself each round. Players will control a variety of squad combinations, bringing new strategies to life with each session.
Set in a fantastical dieselpunk world reminiscent of a post-World War I era, the game’s objective is straightforward: conquer enough territory to secure victory. Success hinges on strategic decision-making and battlefield tactics, determining whether players achieve a triumphant end or face a disheartening defeat.
In Vanguard Exiles, every unit boasts a unique identity, complete with distinct visuals and a specialized range of traits and abilities. Squads are composed of various unit combinations and available actions. While combat is automated, this title demands thoughtful play; players must navigate complex tactical decisions to ensure their success.
The game’s intricate rule set and mechanics are designed to enhance player understanding rather than overwhelm them. After each round, players receive insights into their chances of winning, prompting reflection on their strategies—did they outsmart their opponent only to face misfortune, or did they stumble into victory through luck? Each match offers valuable lessons, enabling players to refine their strategies against a backdrop of evolving tactics from others.
A demo version is currently accessible on Steam, featuring a single-player mode that allows players to engage with AI opponents and familiarize themselves with the game’s array of units and actions. However, the true experience unfolds with the PvP elements set to launch with early access on March 11, introducing the opportunity for online battles along with new units and actions exclusive to this version.
“Vanguard Exiles merges the intricacies of tabletop design with the innovations of digital gaming to create a truly distinctive experience,” Garfield remarked. “The game’s diverse offerings are thrilling, and skilled play can lead to unexpected gameplay turns. I appreciate creating environments rich for exploration, akin to my previous works like Magic: The Gathering and Keyforge. Vanguard Exiles mirrors that depth, and I am eager to share it with a wider audience.”
Richard Garfield conceptualized Vanguard Exiles, which is brought to life by The Tea Division.
“With over 25 years in the industry and experience across significant titles and franchises, I have never felt as enthusiastic or assured about a project as I do about Vanguard Exiles,” stated Mark Rowley from The Tea Division. “During our initial playtest phase, the engagement from participants was remarkable. Players quickly became invested in understanding why they won or lost and were eager to dive back in to grasp the deeper strategies.”
Rowley continued, “The rapid improvement we’ve observed among players with the single-player demo has been promising. We are excited to see what transpires once players compete against one another in online matches when early access launches. To facilitate learning, we’re also introducing a dedicated Spectator Mode, enabling players to analyze the strategies of others just by watching.”
Based in Brisbane, The Tea Division operates as a remote studio comprised of seasoned developers, many of whom have collaborated for years. Collectively, they bring expertise from over 100 games developed across more than two decades, encompassing a range of projects from indie initiatives to AAA titles. Their commitment to delivering efficient, high-quality solutions is evident across their work.
Vanguard Exiles marks The Tea Division’s inaugural self-published and fully owned project, showcasing Garfield’s new vision for the auto battler genre.
Source
venturebeat.com