Turn-Based End Times: Human Extinction Simulator
So long farewell auf wiedersehen goodnight
An email landed earlier this week to inform me of the existence of the Human Extinction Simulator. I expected a disease simulator along the lines of Plague Inc so imagine my surprise when tiny spaceships filled my screen, engaged in turn-based combat. HES has one of the smartest concepts for tactical space biffing that I can remember seeing. Having encountered a hostile and overwhelmingly powerful alien species, humanity has developed the Halting Extraterrestrials Strategy program to train officers. The name doesn't stick.
Recruits call this program the Human Extinction Simulator due to the extensive and often catastrophic scenarios depicted. While most find this amusing, some fear that it might be the actual name of the program.
Oh boy.
I am intrigued. Here's what to expect when the game launches (no date yet):
Tactical turn-based space combat.
Multiple simulation scenarios from covert operations to large scale battles.
Customizable reinforcement to fit your strategy.
Over 30 ships from highly maneuverable fighters to heavily armed cruisers.
Mod ready: Create your own spaceships and scenarios.
More footage follows.
I usually skim through any backstory in tactical games, with rare exceptions, but I'm absolutely on board with the idea of attempting to find ways to prevent total extinction while accidentally predicting the very same. It has a beautifully morbid appeal and is far more exciting than yet another ancestor/machine race backdrop, with the expected sprinkling of ancient artifacts and whatnot.