Simon Willison released Battle Drones under an Apache 2.0 License yesterday, and a French contributor immediately created a fork called Panache. This new version reskins the real-time strategy game to feature Belle Époque France around 1900. The update includes animated introductions, gold and red buildings, dirigibles, biplanes, and steampunk models for existing units like the Goliath mech.
The project demonstrates how open-source code allows rapid community iteration without altering core mechanics. Willison noted that the changes are mostly aesthetic, though the music has received a French twist. Players can access the game via a dedicated web link.
* Original Battle Drones models remain available for comparison
* New steampunk designs replace classic sci-fi robot aesthetics
* The Goliath unit now features a total makeover to match the 1900s French theme
