Whitebox Interactive, an up and coming independent development company, will be unleashing their MOBA Warhammer 40K Dark Nexus Arena as an Early Access title this December. Warhammer 40K began as a tabletop game and the universe has since extended to video games, gaining a dedicated following (and memes). Whitebox explains that they're deviating from the usual MOBA formula of League of Legends and Dota 2 fame, by removing the three-lane style meta and focusing mechanics on skill shots. Instead of being primarily based on targeting, players will have to aim everything from skills to basic attacks, similar to games like Smite, but keeping with the top down perspective. The new mechanics, Whitebox says, will give players "an unprecedented level of control over their characters", including the ability to dodge and take cover, similar to a classic shooter. A trailer was released, showcasing a bit of what the game will look like.

Dark Nexus Arena also removes the traditional elements of towers and lanes, with multiple maps that constitute a "more open battlefield", keeping with the lore of Warhammer 40K. There is also no base or area on the map for players to quickly regenerate health, putting more reliance on support and tank characters. Players win matches by capturing the enemy nexus three times, creating a "capture the flag" style method of play. No example maps or any potential other objectives have been released, though there will be multiple maps available. Whitebox CEO Jonathan Falkowski says Warhammer is "perfect for a MOBA", and believes Dark Nexus Arena will stand out among the ever-growing genre.

Dark Nexus Arena has been in closed beta since May, and will be entering its Early Access on December 9th. Players who want a sneak peak can watch weekly streams on the official Twitch, and can sign up for an account now to get updates.