Star Wars Zero Company launches today with preload available and regional release times confirmed
The tactical turn-based game Star Wars Zero Company is now available on PlayStation 5, Windows PC, and Xbox Series X, following its global release on August 27. Developed by Bit Reactor and published by Electronic Arts, the title has been described as "Star Wars meets XCOM" and has drawn praise for its character-driven storytelling set during the Clone Wars.
Players can begin preloading the game immediately, with the download size reportedly coming in at 34GB. This relatively modest file size means that even those who start the preload late on launch day should be able to play once the game unlocks, provided their internet connection is stable.
Regional release times
The game unlocks simultaneously across the globe, with the exact time depending on the player's time zone. For those on the west coast of North America, the game is available from 8 a.m. PDT. East coast players can start at 11 a.m. EDT, while UK players get access at 4 p.m. BST. European players in the western time zones can begin at 5 p.m. CEST.
In the southern hemisphere, Brazilian players can start at 12 p.m. BRT, and Australian players on the east coast will need to wait until 1 a.m. AEST on August 28. New Zealand players also face a late launch, with the game unlocking at 3 a.m. NZDT on the same day. Japanese players will see the release at 12 a.m. JST on August 28.
Pre-order bonuses
Those who pre-ordered Star Wars Zero Company receive the Crystalline Astromech cosmetic pack, which provides new visual options for the player's droids, regardless of which edition they purchased. The deluxe edition includes additional content: the Grand Army of the Republic cosmetic pack, which contains an "ARC trooper" armour set, "100th clone company" armour, and a "Republic Officer" uniform.
The deluxe edition also comes with the Shadow Collective cosmetic pack, featuring cosmetics tied to several criminal organisations from the Star Wars universe, including Crimson Dawn, the Pyke Syndicate, Deathwatch, the Black Sun syndicate, and the Hutt Cartel. This pack also includes customisable Pyke helmets. Additionally, deluxe edition buyers receive exclusive painted weapon themes for the 100th Clone Company, Black Sun Syndicate Enforcer, Bespin Security, Separatist Warrior, and Kafrene Informant.
Gameplay and reception
Early impressions have been positive. A preview from Polygon noted that the game's cast of misfit operators provides "fruitful ground for character-driven storytelling" and that it is "the first time I've felt interested in Star Wars characters again in a long time." A review from PC Gamer described the game as "a new all-timer Star Wars game" that should appeal to both tactics fans and those simply looking for more content set in the Star Wars universe.
The game places players in the role of a group of operators trying to make a living during the Clone Wars, with tactical thinking described as more important than blasters and lightsabers. The title is available on Steam and other digital storefronts for the supported platforms.