The universe of space exploration and epic storytelling is set to expand further with Cloud Imperium Games’ highly anticipated Squadron 42. Fans can mark their calendars for a 2026 release of this thrilling single-player adventure, featuring the iconic Mark Hamill. However, updates suggest that the game will not be preceded by an extensive marketing blitz.
Chris Roberts, the visionary founder and CEO of Cloud Imperium Games, shared insights in a recent blog post. His focus remains on refining and polishing Squadron 42 as it progresses towards an internal beta and eventual full launch next year.
“We’re confident in the direction the game is headed and are fully focused on delivering,” Roberts affirmed. “We know many of you are eager to play, and we’re looking forward to putting it in your hands. We don’t plan on a long, drawn-out marketing campaign as we’ve already done our share of trailers and gameplay previews. When it’s time, you (and the rest of the gaming world) will hear a lot more from us.”
Immersive Galactic Adventure
Every chapter of Squadron 42 is reportedly now fully playable, with Roberts and his team frequently experiencing the game firsthand. “Squadron 42 is a large game, over 40 hours in length, and it’s becoming increasingly clear how special it will be once the remaining polish, optimization, and bug fixing is complete,” he noted. The advanced technology developed by Cloud Imperium Games over the years enables seamless transitions from on-foot exploration to piloting spacecraft, all without loading screens, offering a unique level of immersion.
Roberts emphasized the importance of the game’s quality content, from its writing and performance capture to the intricate design of characters, environments, and cinematics. “The level of care across the entire game is something I’m incredibly proud of. Combined with deeply interactive systems, it creates an experience that pulls you into the world and keeps you there,” he added.
A Glimpse into the Universe
In 2024, Roberts unveiled an exciting demo of Squadron 42, showcasing stunning cutscenes with famous CGI-rendered Hollywood stars like Gillian Anderson, Henry Cavill, Gary Oldman, and Mark Strong. The demo highlighted gripping space battles and a first-person shooter sequence, offering a taste of what players can expect. Meanwhile, Star Citizen, the broader space simulation project, has seen unprecedented engagement, with 2025 being dubbed “the Year of Playability.” Roberts described it as a year of focused efforts to enhance the quality of life, performance, and reliability for players. Star Citizen is reportedly set for a full release sometime in 2027 or 2028, a year or two following Squadron 42’s debut.
Despite its ambitious scope and crowd-funded beginnings in 2012, Star Citizen continues to stir controversy in the gaming world. Over the years, it has faced skepticism, with some labeling it a scam. However, Cloud Imperium Games has managed to amass over $1 billion in funding from players eager to explore its expansive universe.