Cloud Imperium’s much-delayed multiplayer space-trading title Star Citizen has been in development for well over a decade, but now it is seemingly nearing completion, after having raised more than $867 million through crowdfunding.
In a recent interview with La Presse (via PC Gamer), Cloud Imperium’s CEO Chris Roberts said Star Citizen is aiming for a 2027 or 2028 launch window. Its single-player spin-off title, Squadron 42, is expected to release next year.
Squadron 42 features a superstar cast, including Gary Oldman, Gillian Anderson, Mark Hamill, Andy Serkis, and Henry Cavill – to name a few.
To create digital replicas of these actors, as well as player characters and other NPCs, Cloud Imperium utilised new 4D technology created by a unique partnership including a Hollywood VFX company.
Clear Angle Studio specialises in utilising scanning technology for films and television, including its head scanning system Dorothy, which features 76 cameras and 1,500 lights to capture both 3D and 4D textures.
Last August, it partnered with 4D facial performance capture service DI4D and post-production company TexturingXYZ to launch a new 4D facial mocap service.
GamesIndustry.biz visited Clear Angle’s headquarters at Pinewood Studios to learn more about this collaboration, including a hands-on look at Dorothy.
The interview below has been edited for brevity and clarity.