Key Highlights:
- Hogs of War returns with a new remaster titled Hogs of War Lardcore.
- Kickstarter launches October 17th aiming for £150,000 in funding.
- Stretch goals include online multiplayer, new modes and a potential PC port.
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In an unexpected delight for retro gaming fans, the cult classic PlayStation 1 title Hogs of War is gearing up for a remastered comeback 23 years after first releasing. While a remake was announced 4 years ago, concrete details have been scarce until now. The tactical turn-based game amassed a dedicated following despite middling reviews.
Many consider it one of the PS One’s most underappreciated gems. After going dormant following its PS1 and PC launch, Hogs of War is ready to make a triumphant return with the upcoming Hogs of War Lardcore remaster set to soon launch a Kickstarter campaign.
Kickstarter Launches October 17th, Ends November 16th
The Kickstarter aims to raise £150,000 to complete development of Lardcore, the Hogs of War remake. It will run from October 17th through November 16th. A video was uploaded to the developers official YouTube channel showcasing all the details which can be viewed below.
To entice backers, numerous stretch goals are planned, including a PC port, online multiplayer, extra modes, tweaked campaigns, cheats, achievements, and an ultra-hard mode. The ability to play online competitively or cooperatively is the most desired stretch benchmark, although its funding threshold is still unannounced. Backers can choose from 13 pledge tiers offering various physical and digital rewards to be detailed at launch.
While waiting on the remaster, fans can currently grab the original on Steam for £4.41/$5.29 or the PS1 Classics version on PS3 for $5.99. However, the Steam release has technical issues on modern PCs. And the PS1 edition isn’t compatible with PS4 or PS5, limiting access to legacy platforms.
Devs Hoping For A PS4/PS5 and PC Port
Lardcore is targeting a release on PS4 and PS5, with a PC port as a reachable stretch goal. For the patient Hogs of War community, the hope is the Kickstarter succeeds so the remaster can reach modern systems. The chance to relive this creative gem with improved visuals and features after so many years is an exciting prospect.
The Kickstarter countdown has series devotees buzzing with anticipation. Hogs of War stands out as an innovative title that blended humour and engaging turn-based tactics. Though overlooked by many at launch, a dedicated fanbase has kept its legacy alive. Now Lardcore offers an opportunity to rediscover the quirky world of militarised pigs while introducing it to a new generation.
Hogs of War also has a fascinating development history. The original studio behind it, Infogrames Sheffield, closed shortly after release, and some of the game’s source code was believed to be lost.
Over the years the rights shifted hands, with members of the original team attempting several times to revive the project. Lardcore represents the first organised effort with full rights in place, which explains why earlier remake attempts stalled and why fans see this Kickstarter as the first realistic chance for a proper revival.
While the remaster seeks to update visuals and add requested features, the heart of the experience appears intact. The tactical single player campaign still challenges players to conquer territories by commanding pig soldiers with unique abilities. The personality-packed hogs bring levity to the strategic missions. Local multiplayer remains a big draw as friends take turns controlling factions.
Modernising such a nostalgic classic in considerate ways, the developers display a clear affection for the understated creativity that made Hogs of War special. The potential resurrection of a forgotten favourite demonstrates how remasters at their best breathe new life into gaming history. If the Kickstarter reaches its goals, Hogs of War could transition from obscurity to renown when Lardcore launches. For dedicated fans, the possibility is a dream come true.
