Ex Dreamcast indie developers push the boundaries of XBL Indie games

by Guest Tue 3 Aug 2010 - 18:00

Faithful Sega Dreamcast fans may recognize the name "redspotgames." The indie developers have gained a loyal following by extending the life of Sega's short-lived console with quality titles like Rush Rush Rally Racing and Last Hope.

Recently the company revealed their oft-teased next release - Solar Struggle - and shocked their fanbase by announcing it for the Xbox Live Indie Game channel.

From the beginning, redspotgames designed Solar Struggle to stand out among the typically sub-par releases on the XBLIG, and the company isn't shy about their intentions.

"...the graphical details will be much higher than most Xbox Live Indie Games. Also, you won't find as powerful a 3D engine among other Indie Games. The story is well thought out, includes plot twists and will be filled with cut scenes and voices from famous voice actors." ~ Z-Software CEO Andreas Heldt.

David Michael Williamson, star of the English version, has made a name for himself as screenwriter and actor in movies like 'Over My Dead Body'. Although not well known in North America, voice talents like Willi Röbke - popular in Germany for voicing popular TV characters on 'The Simpsons', 'Futurama', and 'The Super Mario Bros. Super Show' - have been hired as well.

Ex Dreamcast indie developers push the boundaries of XBL Indie games 40401_141644862532390_141640955866114_288787_8251483_n-1

Ex Dreamcast indie developers push the boundaries of XBL Indie games 40401_141644862532390_141640955866114_288787_8251483_n-1

There's a touch of bitterness, however, in the company's official press release. Note this excerpt: Not long ago a game like Solar Struggle would have been released as an [Xbox Live] Arcade Game and not among the Indie Games. One can only assume they sought an XBLA deal with Microsoft and were turned down.

Solar Struggle has been in development since the end of 2008, and reportedly has the most expensive budget of any Xbox Live Indie Games title to date. The company wants to see how a high quality title will be received on the platform, hoping it opens new possibilities for them and their peers.

Ex Dreamcast indie developers push the boundaries of XBL Indie games 40401_141644865865723_141640955866114_288788_7586213_n-1

Ex Dreamcast indie developers push the boundaries of XBL Indie games 40401_141644865865723_141640955866114_288788_7586213_n-1

Regardless of posturing and press releases, Solar Struggle stands out visually and seems to contain a rich gameplay experience bolstered by a strong storyline. Check out the trailer below, and watch for it this month on Xbox Live Indie Games, releasing for 400 Microsoft Points.

by **FWG Rigor Mortice** Wed 4 Aug 2010 - 7:48

Hmmm that looks pretty good for 400M$

by **Admin** Wed 4 Aug 2010 - 8:30

i agree rig that looks a bargain at 400msp!!

by **N1NJA FWG** Wed 4 Aug 2010 - 10:54

This could be a real shot in the arm for Indie games and if it works, could pave the way for more high quality/low cost releases. Lets hope its as good as it looks and that it is a success. I will def. be giving it a look at that price