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Credits

The Development and Publishing of the Homeworld Series

The Homeworld universe has captivated fans for decades, evolving through the hands of several talented development teams and publishers. This timeline acknowledges the contributions of the developers, artists, designers, and publishers who have brought this iconic space strategy series to life.

1. Homeworld (1999)

  • Developer: Relic Entertainment
  • Publisher: Sierra Studios
  • Key Contributors:
    • Lead Designer: Rob Cunningham
    • Lead Programmer: Luke Moloney
    • Music Composer: Paul Ruskay
    • Art Direction: Aaron Kambeitz
    • Story and Writing: David J. Williams, Gary Shaw
    • Director: Alex Garden

Homeworld was the game that started it all, revolutionizing the real-time strategy (RTS) genre with fully 3D space combat, a unique narrative, and innovative design. It introduced players to the journey of the Kushan race reclaiming their homeworld of Hiigara.

2. Homeworld: Cataclysm (2000)

  • Developer: Barking Dog Studios
  • Publisher: Sierra Studios
  • Key Contributors:
    • Lead Programmer: Glenn Barnes
    • Producer: Chris Stewart
    • Music Composer: Paul Ruskay
    • Story and Writing: Joe Raxworthy

Homeworld: Cataclysm expanded the universe with a standalone story focusing on the Somtaaw Kiithid and their battle against the alien threat known as The Beast. Developed by Barking Dog Studios, it added new mechanics and a darker narrative tone. (Note: Later re-released as Homeworld: Emergence due to a trademark conflict with Blizzard.)

3. Homeworld 2 (2003)

  • Developer: Relic Entertainment
  • Publisher: Vivendi Universal Games
  • Key Contributors:
    • Lead Designer: Josh Mosquiera
    • Art Director: Aaron Kambeitz
    • Music Composer: Paul Ruskay
    • Writer: David J. Williams
    • Director: Erin Daly

Homeworld 2 continued the story of the Hiigarans, exploring their war against the Vaygr and their search for Progenitor relics. This sequel brought enhanced graphics, refined gameplay, and a deeper narrative.

4. Homeworld Remastered Collection (2015)

  • Developer: Gearbox Software
  • Publisher: Gearbox Publishing
  • Key Contributors:
    • Remaster Director: Brian Martel
    • Lead Producer: Chris Faylor
    • Music Composer: Paul Ruskay (remastered tracks)
    • Art Director: Aaron Kambeitz

After acquiring the Homeworld rights from THQ, Gearbox Software released the Homeworld Remastered Collection, modernizing the visuals and audio while preserving the original experience. It was highly regarded for bringing Homeworld to a new generation of players.

5. Homeworld: Deserts of Kharak (2016)

  • Developer: Blackbird Interactive
  • Publisher: Gearbox Publishing
  • Key Contributors:
    • Game Director: Rory McGuire
    • Executive Producer: Jonathan Dowdeswell
    • Art Director: Aaron Kambeitz
    • Music Composer: Paul Ruskay
    • Story and Writing: Rob Cunningham, Joel Green

Set as a prequel on the desert planet of Kharak, Deserts of Kharak transitioned the series from space combat to land-based strategy while retaining large-scale battles and a rich narrative. Developed by Blackbird Interactive, a studio founded by Homeworld co-creator Rob Cunningham.

6. Homeworld 3 (2024)

  • Developer: Blackbird Interactive
  • Publisher: Gearbox Publishing
  • Key Contributors:
    • Creative Director: Rob Cunningham
    • Lead Designer: Rory McGuire
    • Music Composer: Paul Ruskay
    • Writers: Brendan Deneen, Mathew Medina
    • Executive Producer: David Eddings

Released in 2024, Homeworld 3 continues the Hiigaran saga with fully 3D tactical space combat, new features, and refined mechanics. Developed by Blackbird Interactive under Rob Cunningham, the game reintroduces large-scale space battles and deep storytelling.

Special Thanks

This project would not have been possible without the contributions of countless artists, designers, developers, musicians, and writers who have shaped the Homeworld universe across its many iterations. From Relic Entertainment to Blackbird Interactive, and from Sierra Studios to Gearbox Publishing, these individuals and teams have created a timeless series that continues to inspire generations of gamers.

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