EA and Lucasfilm Games have dropped the first official gameplay trailer for Star Wars Zero Company, and the pitch is clear within seconds. This is a turn-based tactical strategy game set during the Clone Wars, built in the mold of XCOM.
The trailer mixes cinematic storytelling with actual gameplay shots. Viewers got a look at squad members hunkered behind cover, tactical movement, ability selection, and the kind of grid-style combat fans of Firaxis’ modern XCOM games will recognize instantly.
Between battles, the footage teased a strategic layer too. A galactic map flashed across the screen, along with weapon customization menus and what appears to be a pre-mission planning sequence. The squad on display is a mixed crew of clone troopers, a Jedi, a Mandalorian, an astromech, and several alien operatives, suggesting XCOM-style class variety rather than a uniform Republic unit.
Why the XCOM comparison sticks
Zero Company is being developed by Bit Reactor in collaboration with Respawn Entertainment, with EA publishing. Bit Reactor was founded by Firaxis veterans, including talent from the modern XCOM series. That pedigree is the main reason fans are already calling this “Star Wars XCOM.”
The setting fits the genre well. The Clone Wars offers a ready-made buffet of unit types, from clone commandos and Jedi generals to B1 droids, super battle droids, droidekas, BX commandos, MagnaGuards, and bounty hunters. Plenty of room for class design and enemy variety.
Players are also expected to customize their commander, with reports pointing to options for gender, appearance, and possibly species. The trailer leaned into squad diversity, which has fans hoping for deeper progression and customization systems on top of the tactical layer.
The biggest story beat came at the very end. Anakin Skywalker shows up, anchoring the game firmly in the late Clone Wars period. His armor looks closer to his Revenge of the Sith outfit than his animated series gear, which has fans speculating that the campaign runs right up to the edge of Order 66. Whether Anakin is a cameo, an allied NPC, or something bigger hasn’t been confirmed.
The trailer’s tone leans gritty and clandestine, closer to Andor or Rogue One than the more mythic side of Star Wars. Star Wars Zero Company releases on August 27, 2026.
