Vancouver-based independent developer Whitebox Interactive announced that it's currently working on a Massively Online Battle Arena (MOBA) title set in the Warhammer 40,000 universe. Called Dark Nexus Arena, the game is slated to arrive on the PC sometime in 2016. However, a beta will be demonstrated early next month during PAX East, followed by early access to the game in Q2 2015.
According to Whitebox, a dedicated group of Warhammer 40,000 fans is working on the game and has set out to create a unique Warhammer 40,000 experience. This is actually the first game produced by Whitebox, which was founded in 2014 and consists of a mixture of gaming industry veterans and a fresh batch of game developers.
"We are thrilled to be working with Games Workshop to launch the first MOBA in the Warhammer 40,000 universe," said Jonathan Falkowski, CEO of Whitebox Interactive. "We are hardcore MOBA players with a shared passion for the Warhammer 40,000 intellectual property here at Whitebox. Our aim is to deliver a highly-polished experience that a player of any skill level can step into and find success and enjoyment."
According to the website, Dark Nexus Arena mixes together the traits of a twin-stick shooter and a MOBA. The game takes place in the Wych arenas of Commorragh and consists of two teams of four players each. There also appears to be a lineup of 12 Veterans that gamers can choose from, including the Orks, the Space Marines, the Tau Empire and the Tyranids. Heroes include Stormboy, Assault Terminator, Scout and Fire Warrior.
"The entire range of Warhammer 40,000 races are planned for future release, including the Sisters of Battle, Dark Eldar, Eldar, and Chaos Space Marines armies," the press release stated.
Whitebox Interactive already offers a few limited edition gaming bundles in its online store including the "Raider Pack" early access game pack for $25. This pack includes a Founder Forum Avatar, a Founder Player Portrait, an Early Access game key and access to the Founders forum. The most expensive pack costs $250 (the Flesh-Sculptor pack), which includes 12 items spanning skins, custom HUDs, an Early Access game key and more.
"We are calling on you, the community, to help us," the website stated. "Your feedback will drive our work towards game balance, bug fixes and development of the best Warhammer 40,000 multiplayer battle arena experience."
To take part in the development, create an account on the Dark Nexus Arena forums here. Meanwhile, we've reached out to the studio with some questions that will be posted here should the studio provide answers.
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