Tundra Interactive, the indie studio behind the strategy RPG Void War, recently revealed the reason for the game's temporary takedown from Steam. According to Tundra, the issue arose from a set of oversized shoulder pads that Games Workshop claimed were too similar to their Warhammer 40,000 Space Marines. Despite initially thinking the DMCA notice was a prank (referencing a character from Firefly), Tundra confirmed its legitimacy and chose to remove the trailer voluntarily. The devs argue that all artwork is original but prioritized relaunching the game without delays while considering adjustments for future content.

What should indie developers consider when creating games with similar aesthetics to established franchises?

Indie developers need to ensure that their designs do not infringe on existing copyrights. This includes being cautious with character appearances and design elements that mirror well-known franchises. Originality in artwork and designs can help prevent legal issues, while also distinguishing their game in the competitive market.

Void War is a strategy RPG that draws inspiration from various sci-fi elements, particularly evident in its aesthetic choices. The game offers players a blend of tactical gameplay and engaging storylines set against the backdrop of a grimdark universe, similar to the themes found in the Warhammer franchise. Released on Steam, it aims to cater to fans of the strategy RPG genre while navigating the careful balance of originality versus homage.