Cloud Imperium Games has resurfaced its long-in-development single-player title, Squadron 42, the story-driven offshoot of the ambitious space simulator Star Citizen. The developer revealed a new cinematic trailer, launched Steam wishlists for the game, and confirmed its extensive cast of Hollywood actors.
Squadron 42 is a spiritual successor to the Wing Commander series, a franchise created by Star Citizen lead Chris Roberts. The game features a narrative-driven experience supported by full performance capture, integrating these performances directly into gameplay rather than confining them to cutscenes. The narrative places players in the role of a rookie in the United Empire of Earth Navy in the year 2945. As the UEE faces threats from outlaws and alien forces, players embark on a journey aboard a capital ship, forging relationships with crew members and making critical decisions that will shape their progression through a galactic war.
The game aims to blend space combat, first-person shooter action, and interactive cinematic sequences. Players will experience the story firsthand through a mix of action, exploration, and player choices. The recent trailer showcased gameplay elements including first-person platforming and puzzle-solving, ship customization, off-duty activities, a hacking mini-game, and narrative decision points. Ian Duncan and Alix Wilton Regan voice the male and female player characters, respectively.
Squadron 42's development has been ongoing for over a decade, with Cloud Imperium Games having worked on Star Citizen for 12 years. The game was initially slated for release in 2026, but developer Chris Roberts announced a delay to the second quarter of 2027. Roberts cited the proximity of Grand Theft Auto 6's release as a factor, stating a desire to avoid launching the game during the significant media attention surrounding Rockstar's title.
This renewed focus on Squadron 42 follows a turbulent period for Star Citizen, including a widely criticized developer livestream that showcased persistent bugs and issues with a recent game update. Star Citizen itself has been a subject of controversy for years, particularly regarding its crowdfunding model and the high cost of in-game virtual ships. Despite this, the game has raised over $1 billion in funding, with a loyal fanbase continuing to support its development. Star Citizen remains without a release window.
The confirmed cast for Squadron 42 includes Mark Hamill, Gary Oldman, Mark Strong, John Rhys-Davies, Henry Cavill, Ben Mendelsohn, Liam Cunningham, Andy Serkis, Jack Huston, Rhona Mitra, Eleanor Tomlinson, Sandi Roberts, Harry Treadaway, Danny Huston, Jonathan Bailey, Gillian Anderson, Ian Duncan, Alix Wilton Regan, Damson Idris, and Jane Perry.