Predecessor (video game)

Predecessor is a free-to-play multiplayer online battle arena (MOBA) game developed and published by Omeda Studios. The game started its buy-to-play early access phase on 1 December 2022. A free-to-play open beta launched on 28 March 2024.

Gameplay
Predecessor is a multiplayer online battle arena (MOBA) video game in a third-person perspective. The game features symmetrical maps, with bases located at opposing ends. Players aim to dismantle the core within the adversary's base to achieve victory. The game map is divided into four primary zones: Offlane, Jungle, Mid Lane, and Duo Lane. Defensive towers are strategically positioned along each lane, automatically engaging and neutralizing adversaries within their designated range, thereby safeguarding the allied bases. Each lane consists of two defensive towers and an inhibitor structure. The demolition of these key structures by a team results in the spawning of more formidable minions within the respective lane.

Within a match, ten participants are divided into two opposing teams, each comprising five players. Each player controls a single character. Upon acceptance of the match invitation, individuals are prompted to specify their preferred role. This information is visible to teammates, fostering a collaborative effort toward constructing a balanced team composition. However, instances may arise wherein multiple players express a preference for the same role. In such scenarios, the game mechanics intervene, automatically assigning one player to the desired role while the other is allocated an available alternative. Every character is equipped with a basic attack, and possesses four unique abilities. These abilities serve various purposes, such as executing offensive or defensive maneuvers and providing passive enhancements.

As players obtain in-game currency through the completion of in-game objectives, they may purchase items from the shop. These items can modify character abilities in various ways, including enabling teleportation to new locations, granting invisibility, manipulating time, and other effects. Moreover, experience is received to increase a character's attributes, such as strength, attack speed, and health.

Development
Predecessor is the first title by UK-based developer Omeda Studios, which was founded in 2020 by Robbie Singh, Andrea Garella, and Steven Meilleur. In 2021, Omeda was granted funding from Epic Games through their Epic MegaGrants program. The initial funding of $2.2 million was designated towards the development of Predecessor. Omeda was inspired by Epic Games' multiplayer online battle arena (MOBA) title Paragon (2016), which was discontinued in 2018. Steve Superville, Paragon's creative director, joined Omeda Studios as an advisor in June 2021. Paid Early Access for the PC was accessible on the Epic Games Store and Steam from 1 December 2022. On 5 December 2023, a closed beta was opened for North American and European players on the PlayStation 4 and PlayStation 5.

It uses the Unreal Engine 5.