For almost every RTS game in the genre, the factions and resources that players manage do not change as they load into different games. As a result, the changing maps become a critical part of the experience. From competitive maps with different avenues of attack to story maps with unique mechanics, players are encouraged to use the tools available to them to make the most of each situation. The new trailer for Sanctuary: Shattered Sun takes the relationship between the player and battlefield to the next level by showing off devastating weapons that can completely alter the map. Along with the trailer, a new demo and Kickstarter for the game were announced.
Taking inspiration from the Supreme Commander series, Sanctuary: Shattered Sun takes place on an Earth that has advanced technology capable of creating devastating wars. The trailer introduces the conflict between the Earth Defense Alliance and the Chosen, locked in a battle across Sanctuary. Gameplay reveals that the battlefield is dominated by massive tanks and artillery blasting through large energy shields. The Steam page reveals even larger machines known as Titans, which require players to survive a long period of time while gaining the resources needed to construct one. The goal of each game will be to protect one’s own commander while trying to find and eliminate the enemy’s.
The second half of the trailer reveals the weapons of immense power both sides are capable of using, along with the effect said weapons have on the environment. First, a massive ice bomb freezes the water on a map, locking all naval vessels in place and leaving them vulnerable to an attack from tanks traversing the frozen ground. Another super weapon tears a gaping hole in the Earth itself, rending the area unusable along with destroying all nearby forces. The end reveals the result of the devastation, as the Earth now has a gaping hole torn down into its core.
Many of the most successful games in the RTS genre have used spectacle to capture the imagination of players, which Sanctuary: Shattered Sun seems keen on replicating. The demo is available now with the full release planned for August 2027.