Oats Studios Drops First Episode of Volume 1 Called Rakka on Steam
A little while ago, Neill Blomkamp announced that he would be releasing short films on the Steam and YouTube platforms. While a somewhat surprising announcement, the decision makes sense as Blomkamp could shed some of the constraining business sides of filmmaking. Today, Blomkamp and Oats Studios have released the first episode of what they are calling Volume 1. Dubbed ‘Rakka’, Episode 1 introduces watchers to both the story and business model of Blomkamp’s new endeavor.
Rakka
Rakka tells the story of an Earth in 2020 which has been overrun by lizard like aliens. In the ‘New World’, humans are run aground and live in constant fear of their alien overlords. I won’t go much deeper into the story, as you should watch it yourself, but this is the general idea.
Oats Studios Funding and Support Approach
As Oats Studios is attempting to forge their own path, most of the funding is being left up to fans. Fans of what Oats Studios are doing can purchase an Oats Volume 1 Assets – Rakka pack on Steam for $5.49 CAD. Inside the pack, you will receive:
- Downloadable video file of Rakka including a 5.1 surround sound mix
- Concept Art
- Scripts
- 3D Models (Source)
Currently this package is the only available form of support, but Oats Studios has promised there will be other packages in the near future which may include:
- Dailies from Rakka
- Visual Effects Behind the Scenes
- Sound Track
- Sound Stems
Having watched Rakka, I can say I’m intrigued to see where the story is headed. I also am curious to see a few things from the project such as how funding plays out and whether or not Oats Studios gets the support necessary to grow into something large and autonomous. Of the feedback the project has received, it seems generally positive, but I imagine the Blomkamp heads are the ones watching hours after release. GO WATCH IT AND SEE FOR YOURSELF!
I don’t think there is any way that I will be spending money for shows through steam. I see the convenience, as I already have an account set up and an easy to access location for the files but I’ll stick to streaming. What can I say, I’m a rebel.
The series is free. You should check it out.