Nightdive Studios’ extensive remake of classic action RPG System Shock will now see a release on PlayStation 4 in addition to the already announced Xbox One and PC versions, project director Jason Fader has confirmed.
In the most recent status update for backers of the Kickstarter, Fader says that the reason it took longer to secure Sony’s console as a release platform was due to the development team being “focused on wrapping the demo up and prepping the Kickstarter.” Furthermore, they “already had strong contacts at Microsoft from prior projects,” explaining why it was already confirmed for Microsoft’s device.
When we launched this Kickstarter, supporting PS4 was a possibility, but we hadn’t started talking to Sony just yet about it. We were all focused on wrapping the demo up and prepping the Kickstarter. We already had strong contacts at Microsoft from prior projects, so supporting Xbox One was less of an unknown.
Fader also confirms that, despite the PS4 version requiring more time and money investment, it won’t be a stretch goal that needs to be unlocked – they’re adding it as a “thank you” to all current backers.
After we saw the overwhelming demand for PS4, we reshuffled our priorities and focused on talking to Sony about making that happen. After a few weeks and lotttts of emails, we are officially on track for bringing System Shock to the PS4! No stretch goal for it. We’re adding it in as a thank you to our backers that put their faith in us.
Despite the gesture of goodwill, however, Fader admits that every little bit helps.
“The more we’re able to raise, the better the game will be,” adds Fader, before signing off with “Please tell your friends about us, share this news about the PS4 suppoer, and help us make the amazing game you all want :-).”
Nightdive has received a considerable amount of positive reception for the way in which they are handling their Kickstarter campaign. Unlike other such projects, the studio is being transparent with how System Shock is coming along on a regular basis, as well as giving all those interested a free pre-alpha demo to try before they buy, so to speak.
The System Shock remake is currently scheduled to release in December 2017 for PC and Xbox One. The PS4 release is planned for early 2018.