Star Wars: Zero Company, a new strategy game based on the iconic science fiction franchise, is taking shape at Bit Reactor studio, known for its work on the XCOM saga.
This project, which has been described as the ‘XCOM of Star Wars’, makes its debut after nearly two decades of absence of major strategy titles in the galactic universe, since the acclaimed Star Wars: Empire at War.
Zampella and Star Wars: Zero Company
The connection between Zero Company and the recent history of the video game industry is remarkable. It all started with a call from the late Vince Zampella, co-creator of Call of Duty and then leader of Respawn Entertainment.
In a conversation with Gregory Foertsch, founder of Bit Reactor, Zampella proposed the idea of developing a Star Wars game based on Foertsch’s vision, which resulted in a collaboration that laid the groundwork for what would become Zero Company.
Foertsch, who had worked for more than two decades in strategy games, had been looking for the perfect project after leaving Firaxis Games. Zampella’s proposal gave him the opportunity to return to the genre he loves, although it initially seemed like a monumental challenge, given the long history of a lack of suitable titles in this category within the franchise.
The development of Zero Company began in 2022, with the intention of having it ready before the end of the decade. However, there is currently no specific release date announced. Foertsch has praised Zampella as an “industry titan,” highlighting his influence on game development and reflecting on his legacy following Zampella’s passing in 2025.
Although there have been ups and downs in the representation of Star Wars in video games and cinema, the franchise continues to demonstrate its relevance and potential in the interactive realm, especially with the anticipated arrival of Zero Company.