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A fun real time strategy game available for Windows

A fun real time strategy game available for Windows

Vote: (268 votes)

Program license: Free

Developer: Eagames

Version: 1.0

Works under: Windows

Vote:

Program license

(268 votes)

Free

Developer

Version

Eagames

1.0

Works under:

Windows

Pros

  • Award-winning gameplay system
  • Play as the Soviets or as the Allied forces
  • Good graphics and sound effects
  • Intriguing storyline unfolds through a series of cut-scenes
  • Compelling single-player mode
  • Multiplayer options

Cons

  • Graphics may appear dated by today's standards
  • Designed for earlier versions of Windows
  • May require tinkering to install on modern computers

The Command and Conquer universe pits players against opposing factions in a tough real-time strategy game where the cunning construction of base structures and battling units could make the difference between victory and defeat.

The Command and Conquer series practically defined an entire genre of gaming. Known as real-time strategy gameplay (RTS), the genre sends players into battle through a top-down view of the field of conflict. This particular entry in the prestigious Command and Conquer series uses an intriguing storyline to suck players into the graphically intense action. An alternate history timeline, one created by Albert Einstein and his time travel machine, has erased Hitler from power. The new power dynamic leads to a brutal war where the Allies battle the Soviet bloc for world domination. The mission of the player in Red Alert is to choose to play as either the Allies or as the Soviets, and engage in a series of compelling single-player missions to defeat the enemy with guile and overwhelming force.

The core of the Command and Conquer legacy is strategy carried out in real time. Battles and entire campaigns are fought while attractive explosions decimate soldiers on both sides. Engaging effects bring the terrain to life while tanks and soldiers race across the landscape in fully animated splendor. The goal is to make the most of limited resources to construct base structures and use them to train soldiers and manufacture fictional vehicles capable of intense gaming destruction. Playing the bad guy Russian opponent may appeal to some while taking the viewpoint of the Allies will certainly attract many. Once a player has finished playing as one of the opponents, it's simple to begin all over again as the other side and rain destruction down on the computer AI-driven forces. Those forces include lone soldiers and fleets of submarines, huge tanks, air fighters and defensive weaponry. The key is in strategically positioning each unit and defending vulnerable structures so that more can be built. Position a medic to heal injured soldiers and fly a squadron of Russian MIGs in to take care of an attacking battalion of Allied troops.

Single-player missions are well executed thanks to the implementation of smart enemy artificial intelligence and the linking cut-scenes that help the story unfold. The adjustable skill level matches players to the AI for maximum fun, and an included multiplayer option is available for those times when all single-player options have been exhausted.

Pros

  • Award-winning gameplay system
  • Play as the Soviets or as the Allied forces
  • Good graphics and sound effects
  • Intriguing storyline unfolds through a series of cut-scenes
  • Compelling single-player mode
  • Multiplayer options

Cons

  • Graphics may appear dated by today's standards
  • Designed for earlier versions of Windows
  • May require tinkering to install on modern computers