Novus AEterno
Novus AEterno was a science-fiction MMORTS concept built around the idea of a single, always-on universe where thousands of players could expand their influence at the same time. Instead of short, match-based rounds, it aimed to deliver long-form strategy where exploration, territorial control, and empire management played out over a persistent galactic map through diplomacy, intelligence, industry, and open conflict.
| Publisher: Taitale Studios Type: MMORTS PvP: Open World Abandoned: March 15, 2018 Pros: +Single persistent universe. +Empire building shaped by players. +Large-scale exploration focus. +Deep ship loadout options. Cons: -Dropped by the developer prior to an official launch. |
Novus AEterno Overview
Novus AEterno was planned as a buy-to-play sci-fi MMORTS set in a seamless, persistent universe intended to host thousands of players together. The pitch centered on eliminating traditional RTS matchmaking and replacing it with a shared galactic sandbox where empires rise over time, borders shift due to player action, and conflict is driven by strategy rather than short-session ladders. Rather than a mission list or a campaign track, progression would come from expanding into new space, managing territory, and responding to galaxy-wide events rooted in the setting’s lore.
A major pillar was customization. Fleets were meant to be built for purpose, not pulled from fixed unit rosters, letting players configure hulls, weapons, shields, armor, and other components to create specialized task forces or more flexible generalist builds. That modular approach, paired with distinct racial tech themes, was designed to support different playstyles, from economic expansion and scouting to direct military pressure. In theory, the wider universe would also react to player decisions, with the larger map evolving as groups competed, negotiated, and adapted.
Novus AEterno Key Features:
- Seamless, Persistent Universe – a single shared galaxy structure where all players exist in the same ongoing world state.
- Fully Customizable Ships – build and refit ships with interchangeable parts and rely on a crew setup intended to support your fleet roles.
- Player-Driven Gameplay – shape outcomes through multiple avenues such as diplomacy, intelligence gathering, economic leverage, and warfare.
- Form Alliances – team up with as many as 15 friends to coordinate territory control, defense, and larger objectives.
- Five Distinct Races – choose from five factions (including Humans, Vernu’nas, Acaean, and others) featuring different technologies and advantages.
Novus AEterno Screenshots
Novus AEterno Featured Video
Novus AEterno Review
Coming Soon!
Novus AEterno Online Links
Novus AEterno Official Site
Novus AEterno Official Forums
Novus AEterno Kickstarter
Novus AEterno Reddit
Novus AEterno System Requirements
Minimum Requirements:
Operating System: Windows 7 or later
CPU: Intel Core2 Duo 2.4GHz
Video Card: 256 MB VRAM, Shadow Model 2.0
RAM: 4 GB
Hard Disk Space: 10 GB
Recommended Requirements:
Operating System: Windows 7 or later
CPU: Intel Core i5 2.67 GHz
Video Card: 1024 MB VRAM, Shadow Model 3.0
RAM: 8 GB
Hard Disk Space: 15 GB
Novus AEterno Music & Soundtrack
Coming Soon!
Novus AEterno Additional Information
Developer: Taitale Studios
Kickstarter Launch Date: December 10, 2013
Kickstarter Funded Date: January 27, 2014
Backer Early Access Date: February 11, 2014
Release Date: N/A
Abandoned: March 15, 2018
Development History / Background:
Novus AEterno was in development at Taitale Studios, a team started by Nick Nieuwoudt, who described wanting an alternative to the familiar short, match-limited RTS structure. The concept grew into a studio effort presented as being staffed with experienced developers, including an award-winning art director, veteran programmers, and industry professionals. The project first appeared on Kickstarter targeting $200,000, and later drew interest from angel investors who offered $125,000 directly to the studio, influenced by the enthusiastic response the idea received.
The Kickstarter campaign was later relaunched on December 10, 2013 with a reduced goal of $75,000, and it reportedly reached that target within 100 hours. Funding concluded on January 27, 2014, totaling $268,875 raised through crowdfunding. Afterward, the studio also added a PayPal contribution option, offering early access when available for donations above $25. In early 2018, Taitale Studios abandoned Novus AEterno and stated they were shifting focus to another MMORTS project titled Hades 8, which was also abandoned shortly after. In the end, the project is widely regarded as another Kickstarter scam.
