News: ZeroSpace Launches in Early Access on Steam for PC
Starlance Studios has officially launched ZeroSpace in Early Access on Steam as of July 20, 2026. This cinematic sci-fi real-time strategy (RTS) game blends classic RTS mechanics with deep storytelling inspired by role-playing games. Players command forces in the Orion Sector, a region locked in conflict among powerful factions. The game streamlines traditional RTS systems for responsive gameplay while maintaining strategic depth, featuring cinematic sequences and meaningful decision trees that shape the narrative. ZeroSpace benefits from the artistic contributions of Aaron Kambeitz, co-founder of Relic Entertainment and artist on the Homeworld series, enhancing its visual identity. It was one of the most-played demos during Steam Next Fest, building significant anticipation. A launch discount is available, and the development team invites player feedback to refine the title on its path to full 1.0 release. From the Steam store page, ZeroSpace is described as a hybrid sci-fi RTS/RPG where players act as commander of The Protectorate, upgrading their mothership, building crew relationships, and recruiting armies to secure humanity’s future amid galactic struggles.
Early Access includes Act 1 of the story-driven campaign with 12 missions starring Prefect Aster as the primary protagonist for The Protectorate faction. Players make dialog choices that influence leadership and character interactions. Additional content features expanded co-op missions, versus mode (ranked 1v1 and 2v2), and full skirmish options including 1v1, 2v2, and free-for-all against friends or AI. Four main factions are available: Humanity’s Protectorate, the symbiotic plant-like Grell, the fanatical Legion, and the newly playable Xol—a mysterious synthetic civilization merging metal, energy, and consciousness. Armies can be customized further with units from mercenary factions, offering diverse unit compositions and strategic options. The Xol faction will join ranked matchmaking after community balance testing. A detailed development roadmap on the Steam page outlines plans through to the full 1.0 version, which will expand the campaign and add more content based on player input.
To mark the launch, Starlance Studios hosts the ZeroSpace: First Contact Invitational tournament featuring RTS stars like GiantGrantGames, PiG, Lowko, TheViper, JimRising, MarineLord, White-Ra, and Harstem. The event runs from July 20 to August 9. Simultaneously, Galactic War Season Zero begins, a three-way alliance conflict led by creators Neo (Back2Warcraft), uThermal, and Winter. Players can join an alliance and contribute to territorial control on the galaxy map until August 1. ZeroSpace emphasizes accessible yet deep RTS gameplay across solo, co-op, and PvP modes, with over 150 units and buildings across factions for dynamic counterplay. The Steam store highlights its focus on strategic army building, hero recruitment, and narrative choices that impact humanity’s galactic standing. Players are encouraged to explore the Orion Sector, provide feedback, and participate in community events as development continues.