Indie studio Creative Intelligence Arts has launched a Kickstarter crowdfunding drive for Project Phoenix, a game described as a "squad-based, real-time strategy, combined with strong Japanese RPG design influences". The development team is Japan-based, but very much multinational, including Australians, and boasts some series cred, with the likes of Final Fantasies, The Elder Scrolls: Skyrim, Valkyria Chronicles, L.A. Noire, Diablo III, Halo 4, Crysis 3 in their portfolios, and notably counts renowned Final Fantasy composer Nobuo Uematsu among its ranks.

We are making a rich, immersive game that will set a new standard of excellence for the Japanese gaming industry, all without major studio backing! Although we have a large array of top talent, we are JRPG fans first and foremost and wish to create a game worthy of longstanding JRPG fans who truly deserve it. In doing so, we will become a phoenix that will rise from the ashes to forge a new direction for the Japanese games industry through a work that awes and inspires all. With the lofty heights we’ve set, we’d like YOU to be a part of our vision and the process and we’re optimistic about it. After all, we’ve got a brave, stubborn, if somewhat forgetful angel on our side, reminding us of what we truly stand for!

Project Phoenix is a fantasy themed squad-based real-time strategy game combined with Japanese RPG design influences. The game draws you in with its breathtaking fantasy world, deep storyline, Japanese character designs, and a memorable cast, most notably, the band of heroes under your command. Furthermore, its intuitive real-time tactical combat is dynamic, fluid, and streamlined, allowing you to experience the strategic options without being bogged down by overwhelming archaic battle systems.

In its first 9 hours of a 30 day campaign, the project has already blown past its initial US$100,000 goal and is expected to outline further stretch goals, including a multiplayer component. Target platforms are PC, and iOS/Android, with PlayStation 4 and Vita reportedly being negotiated.

Watch the pitch video below, and head over to the Kickstarter page if you feel like donating to the cause.