===Canceled Star Wars RPG Magellan: A Borderlands-Inspired Dream That Never Was===
[A look back at the ambitious, now-canceled, Star Wars action RPG that promised lightsaber combat and Mandalorian mayhem.]
The galaxy far, far away is a hotbed of development activity right now, with numerous Star Wars games in the works. However, one project that fans will sadly never experience is Magellan, an AAA action role-playing game that aimed to blend the iconic Star Wars universe with gameplay reminiscent of Borderlands. While Zynga has never officially confirmed its existence, leaked development materials paint a vivid picture of what could have been.
Magellan: Lightsabers, Jetpacks, and Loot
Developed by Echtra Games, with assistance from NaturalMotion, Magellan was reportedly in the early stages of production since 2021. According to information shared by a former Echtra Games developer on MP1st, the game would have offered players the choice between two distinct character classes: Jedi and Mandalorian. As a Jedi, you’d wield a lightsaber and harness the power of the Force. Mandalorians, on the other hand, could utilize jetpacks for aerial combat, flamethrowers, and a variety of ranged weaponry.
Gameplay footage reveals a third-person action RPG experience focused on shooting, looting, and character progression. Both Jedi and Mandalorians could equip gadgets like electric grenades to strategically eliminate enemies. The core gameplay loop seemed centered around acquiring “Booster Gear” from defeated foes and opening reward chests filled with valuable items.
Beyond Combat: Building Relationships in a Galaxy Far, Far Away
Magellan wasn’t just about lightsaber duels and blaster fire. An “NPC Bond System” was planned to allow players to forge relationships with non-player characters (NPCs) when they weren’t busy battling Stormtroopers and droids. This system would have added a layer of depth and immersion, allowing players to become more invested in the world and its inhabitants.
A Dream Deferred: Joining the Roster of Canceled Star Wars Games
Unfortunately, Echtra Games was shut down by its parent company, Zynga, effectively halting development on Magellan. The game joins a long list of canceled Star Wars projects, including the infamous Star Wars 1313, Visceral’s ambitious Project Ragtag, and a sequel to Republic Commando. While Magellan may be gone, its legacy lives on as a reminder of the creative possibilities within the Star Wars universe.
Looking Ahead: New Hope for Star Wars Fans
Despite the loss of Magellan, there’s still plenty to look forward to in the world of Star Wars gaming. The upcoming XCOM-like Zero Company is set to release on August 27th, and Star Wars: Galactic Racer arrives on October 6th. Furthermore, this year’s D23 event showcased exciting developments for the wider Star Wars franchise, including a new look at Ahsoka’s second season, the upcoming Star Wars: Starfighter movie starring Ryan Gosling, and the recent release of The Ninth Jedi, a standalone spinoff of the Star Wars: Visions anthology. While Magellan may never see the light of day, the future remains bright for Star Wars fans eager to explore new adventures in a galaxy far, far away.
Source: GameSpot
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