X-COM Creator Julian Gollop Unveils New Action-Strategy Title, Chip 'n Clawz
Julian Gollop, the esteemed creator behind the iconic X-COM: UFO Defense, continues his dedication to the strategy genre after 31 years. Today, his studio, Snapshot Games, launched their latest title, Chip 'n Clawz vs. The Brainoids, a dynamic action-strategy game that includes cooperative play.
In a recent conversation with GamesRadar+, Gollop shared insights into his new project, his views on the strategy genre, and a glimpse into the future of his studio. He revealed that the idea for Chip 'n Clawz first emerged in 2020 but was put on hold for the development of Phoenix Point. The core concept, however, remained consistent: to blend strategy and action in fast-paced matches, initially envisioned to last around six minutes. The final game now features a full story campaign, a cooperative mode, and online multiplayer.
A Fresh Look for Strategy: Bright Visuals and Console Focus
In a notable departure from Snapshot Games' often darker, turn-based titles, Chip 'n Clawz sports a bright, cartoonish aesthetic. The game was designed from the ground up with consoles in mind, and its controls are optimized for gamepads. This approach aligns with Gollop's long-standing ambition to make strategy games more accessible and enjoyable for a wider audience.
“This project embodies my long-held desire to make strategies more accessible and exciting. That's how I define Chip n' Clawz — it’s an immersive strategy game. Yes, players control a character with a familiar control system and a third-person camera, but at its heart, it is still a real-time strategy,” Julian Gollop stated.
The gameplay intricately combines third-person action mechanics with the ability to command an army of creatures. Players can divide responsibilities, with some diving into combat while others provide strategic oversight from the rear. Success hinges on these 'minions,' though upgrades allow players to shift the balance towards direct combat or deeper strategic planning. Gollop cited Pikmin, Brütal Legend, and his earlier work, Magic and Mayhem, as key inspirations.
The Enduring Appeal of Strategy
When asked about the genre, Gollop emphasized that strategies are valuable for their diverse solutions and variability.
“It [the strategy genre] is great for experimentation. Often, there are multiple paths to achieve your goals. There are many strategies. That’s why it's called a strategy game. It very rarely requires solving a problem in only one way, and I think that’s great. There’s a sense of power as you control and coordinate large forces. But I also like that your control over the environment or system is never absolute. You always have to react to changes on the battlefield, in the tactical landscape, so to speak. I think that's the essence of it. Of course, I appreciate and play other genres too. But yes, when it comes to making games, my heart belongs to strategies,” Gollop elaborated.
Gollop believes this new, accessible style can attract not only seasoned strategy enthusiasts but also new players. While classic RTS games like Age of Empires remain popular, he feels many modern titles in the genre often repeat established mechanics without significant innovation. Chip 'n Clawz aims to offer a fresh and more approachable take on strategic gameplay.
Looking Ahead: Serious Strategies Remain
Despite this new direction, Gollop assured fans that Chip 'n Clawz does not signal a departure from more complex strategy games. Snapshot Games is also actively working on a digital adaptation of the tabletop game Frosthaven, currently in early access, which aligns more closely with the studio’s traditional projects.
“I wouldn't jump to such conclusions, no. You know, let's just wait and see. And I must say that another project we are currently working on at the studio is Frosthaven, the digital version of the tabletop game. So we definitely want to continue making large-scale strategy games. But all I can say for now is, yes, wait and see. I think you won't be disappointed in the future,” Gollop concluded.
Chip 'n Clawz vs. The Brainoids is now available on PC (via Steam and Epic Games Store), Xbox Series X|S, and PlayStation 5.
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