Homeworld: Deserts of Kharak is free to claim from the Epic Games Store until 8/31/2023 at 11:00 AM. Developed by Blackbird Interactive and published by Gearbox Publishing, this is a well-reviewed, 2016 installment of the real-time strategy series that serves as a prequel to the classic games, transporting players to the desert planet of Kharak, 100 years before the events of the first Homeworld. Homeworld 3 is scheduled to be released in February 2024, while the Epic Game Store’s next freebie is indie favorite Cave Story+.
Crafted by Blackbird Interactive, a studio founded by veterans of Homeworld and Company of Heroes. Homeworld: Deserts of Kharak takes players to the deserts of Kharak where danger lurks over every dune. Assemble your fleet and lead them to victory on the shifting sands of Kharak in this compelling strategy game.
EXPERIENCE AN ORIGIN STORY
In Deserts of Kharak’s campaign, an anomaly is discovered deep in the southern desert. An expedition is sent, but the story is not that simple. Discover the story of Rachel S’jet as she leads her people on a quest to find their destiny in an exciting campaign.
HEAVY DUTY HARDWARE
Take control of fleets of land and air vehicles – from nimble light attack vehicles to massive heavyweight cruisers – built to conquer the desert.
MASSIVE ENVIRONMENTS
Fight your way across massive dune seas, deep craters, and hostile canyons in sprawling maps – all in unprecedented fidelity and scale.
TACTICAL COMBAT
Position your fleet to take advantage of the high ground or create ambushes across dune lines in terrestrial combat. Attack your enemies’ resource operations, or assault their military head-on.
STRATEGIC DECISIONS
Meaningful choices in resource management, fleet composition, and technology research directly impact your chances of survival.
ONLINE MULTIPLAYER
Compete online solo or with friends in a variety of game modes, including ranked play. Rise through the ranks and become the most powerful Fleet Captain on Kharak. Before you can find your Homeworld, you must first unlock the secrets of the desert.