C’est officiel, l’éditeur Slitherine vient de racheter Battlefront, l’équipe de développement de la série Combat Mission. Une nouvelle à moitié surprenante puisque les deux sociétés collaborent depuis 5 ans, notamment pour éditer les jeux sur steam et communiquer davantage à leur sujet.
Une bonne chose puisque la série bénéficie dorénavant de plus de moyens pour évoluer. L’équipe originale, toujours en place, se voit presque triplée avec entre autre l’intégration d’un expert spécialisé sur le moteur Unity. En toute probabilité, nous devrions prochainement apprendre l’arrivée d’un Combat Mission 3 développé sur ce moteur ou le portage des jeux existants. Si cela peut vous rassurer, Unity n’est plus un simple moteur de jeu mobile mais un outil puissant, sur lequel tourne par exemple le très bon Regiments de Microprose. Dans tous les cas, difficile de faire pire qu’actuellement sur le plan technique.
Pendant ce temps, et dans l’attente de nouvelles informations, nous pouvons profiter des jeux existants ou relire mon guide du débutant, l’esprit tranquille face à cet avenir en théorie radieux pour la meilleure simulation tactique du marché.
Communiqué complet (en anglais) :
August 27, 2024 – Epsom, UK. Slitherine, a leader in the development and publishing of wargames, proudly announces the acquisition of Battlefront, the renowned developers of the Combat Mission series. This strategic move underscores Slitherine’s commitment to expanding the wargaming market in a meaningful and sustainable manner while honoring the legacy of a franchise that has captivated thousands of fans worldwide for over two decades.
A Landmark Franchise in Wargaming
Combat Mission is a name synonymous with excellence in tactical wargaming. Since its inception 25 years ago, the franchise has released over 20 products, selling over 1 million copies globally. These figures are a testament to the game’s enduring popularity and the community’s loyalty. Combat Mission has not only set the standard for realism and tactical depth but has also fostered a dedicated following around the globe.
Bringing Combat Mission to the Next Generation
Slitherine’s acquisition of Battlefront signals an exciting new chapter for Combat Mission. With Slitherine’s resources and expertise, the franchise is poised to evolve, embracing cutting-edge technology and innovative gameplay mechanics to captivate a new generation of wargamers. This partnership aims to enhance the gaming experience while maintaining the core principles that have made Combat Mission a beloved series.“We are thrilled to welcome the Battlefront team into the Slitherine family,” said Iain McNeil, CEO of Slitherine. “Their expertise and passion for wargaming are unparalleled, and together, we will continue to push the boundaries of what is possible in this genre. Our goal is to not only preserve the legacy of Combat Mission but to elevate it to new heights.”
An Essential Tool for Defence Organizations
Combat Mission’s impact extends beyond the realm of entertainment. The software is widely used by numerous Defence Organizations around the world as a planning and wargaming tool. Its realistic simulations and detailed scenarios provide invaluable insights for military training and operational planning. This unique application underscores the game’s sophistication and its relevance in real-world scenarios.Continuity and Expansion
All Battlefront staff, including co-founders Stephen Grammont and Charles Moylan, will be fully absorbed within Slitherine. This integration ensures continuity and preserves the invaluable knowledge and experience that the Battlefront team brings. Fans of Combat Mission can rest assured that the franchise is in good hands, with the original creators continuing to play a pivotal role in its development.“We are excited to join forces with Slitherine,” said Stephen Grammont, co-founder of Battlefront. “Their vision for the future of wargaming aligns perfectly with ours, and we are confident that together we can achieve great things. We look forward to bringing new and exciting content to our dedicated fanbase.”
Availability and Distribution
Slitherine is committed to maintaining the availability of Combat Mission games through existing channels. All titles will continue to be sold through Matrix Games, Steam, and various other outlets. This ensures that fans can easily access and enjoy their favorite games, and new players can discover the series with ease.Looking Forward
The acquisition of Battlefront by Slitherine represents a significant milestone in the evolution of wargaming. This partnership is poised to deliver new and exciting experiences for fans of the genre, while expanding the reach and impact of Combat Mission. Together, Slitherine and Battlefront are dedicated to growing the wargaming market in a meaningful and sustainable way, ensuring that this beloved genre continues to thrive for years to come.