E3 2001 Preshow ReportStar Trek: Armada II

The sequel to last year's real-time strategy game based on Star Trek: The Next Generation will be shown for the first time at E3 2001. The original Star Trek: Armada featured tried-and-true real-time strategy mechanics, similar to those found in successful games such as Dark Reign and Starcraft. It let you play as four different factions: the Federation, the Klingons, the Romulans, and the Borg. Predictably enough, each of these had unique strengths, as well as certain shortcomings. Star Trek: Armada II will emphasize the original game's best features--its great graphics, fast action, and smooth gameplay--and will enhance these with added detail and functionality.

The E3 2001 demo of Star Trek: Armada II will feature a couple of single-player levels from the game--the Federation takes on the Borg, and the Klingons take on the Cardassians. A multiplayer level will also be shown.

Some of the new features in the game, including 3D formations of up to 16 ships, will also be on display. The original game didn't allow for unit formations, and the action was limited to a 2D plane--so the move to fully 3D gameplay should have a significant effect. Armada II will also sport a new resource model, updated graphics, a new interface, and a new tactical view. Activision may also show the game's intro movie.

Star Trek: Armada II will feature three single-player campaigns, focusing on the Federation, the Klingons, and the Borg. Races, including the Cardassians and the Romulans, will play a peripheral role during these campaigns. The game will support up to eight players in multiplayer battles (up from four players per battle in the original Armada), and Internet player-matching will be integrated into the game by means of the GameSpy service.

Star Trek: Armada II is scheduled to ship during this year's holiday season. It's currently in a pre-alpha stage of development, but its experienced development team--whose credits include games like Dark Reign and System Shock 2--are sure to have the game done in time by Christmas festivities.