Rebellion's Vision: Bridging Comic Legacy and Gaming Future

The renowned British studio Rebellion is preparing for the launch of Atomfall, a unique game set in an alternate history with Stalker-like elements. This project represents a significant shift from their well-known Sniper Elite series. CEO Jason Kingsley describes it as a "dream game," highlighting its immersive world where players can explore endless distractions without traditional quest markers. Meanwhile, Rebellion also owns 2000AD, one of the most influential science fiction comics globally since 1977. Despite its rich legacy, Kingsley admits that they haven't fully leveraged this asset for video games. Efforts to collaborate with external developers faced challenges, particularly due to the pandemic, but the door remains open for future projects.

A New Era for Rebellion: The Making of Atomfall

Atomfall marks a departure for Rebellion, venturing into uncharted territory beyond their established franchises. This game offers players an experience rooted in an alternative historical setting, blending exploration and survival mechanics. The absence of conventional navigation aids like quest markers adds a layer of realism and unpredictability, making every encounter feel fresh and engaging. Players will find themselves captivated by the gritty, atmospheric environment where even a rusted revolver holds immense power.

Jason Kingsley, CEO of Rebellion, envisions Atomfall as a realization of his long-held ambitions. He emphasizes the game's potential to captivate audiences with its rich narrative and distinctive gameplay mechanics. Unlike previous titles, Atomfall focuses on creating an immersive world where players can lose themselves in the details. The development team has meticulously crafted a universe that feels lived-in, filled with hidden stories and unexpected encounters. This approach aims to deliver a more authentic and rewarding gaming experience, setting Atomfall apart from other titles in the genre.

Unlocking the Potential of 2000AD: Challenges and Opportunities

Rebellion's ownership of 2000AD presents both opportunities and challenges. As one of the world's leading science fiction comics, 2000AD boasts a vast array of characters and storylines that could translate into compelling video games. However, translating these elements into interactive experiences has proven difficult. Past attempts have been limited, with only a few notable titles like Judge Dredd and Rogue Trooper seeing the light of day. Kingsley acknowledges this gap and expresses a desire to expand the comic's influence in the gaming world.

In 2017, Kingsley initiated a strategy to invite external developers to explore 2000AD's properties. This move aimed to harness the creativity and expertise of independent studios while providing them access to Rebellion's resources. Initial enthusiasm led to several promising starts, but the global pandemic disrupted many projects. Kingsley reflects on the industry's nature, noting that numerous games begin development but few reach completion. Despite setbacks, the potential for 2000AD-inspired games remains strong. Fans eagerly await the day when iconic characters like ABC Warriors or Strontium Dog might grace their screens, bringing the Galaxy's Greatest Comic to life through interactive storytelling.