OpenZ (2026)

OpenZ is a free, open-source 3D fan remake of Z (The Bitmap Brothers, 1996), released for the 30th anniversary of the original. Version 1.3 rebuilds four of its levels, Level 2 (Desert), Level 7 (Volcano), Level 16 (Jungle) and Level 17 (Car Park), as a real-time strategy game in which red and blue robot armies capture flags to take territories, build robots and vehicles in captured factories, and win by entering or destroying the enemy fort. There is no resource gathering and no base building. The gameplay rules, unit statistics and computer opponent follow the open-source Zod Engine. All models, textures, sounds, voices and music were newly made. The Volcano level has lava that burns robots, erupting volcanoes and lava dragons. The game adds two new units, the Mech and the Electrobot, a hero squad of Alan and Brad with their flying shuttle, General EvilZod as a playable hero for the blue side, a Unit editor for custom battles, a day and night cycle, weather and three difficulty levels. It runs on Windows, with experimental Mac and Linux builds (Linux also for the Steam Deck). OpenZ is unofficial and non-commercial, and is not affiliated with or endorsed by Rebellion or The Bitmap Brothers.

• Release Date: October 12, 2026