Do not pass up a chance to play this game.
Review 198
Released: May 8, 2007
Publisher: EA Games
Developer: EA LA
Game Genre: Sci-Fi Real-Time Strategy
ESRB Rating: T for Teen
ESRB Descriptors: Mild Language, Violence, Animated Blood
Opening Thoughts:
This was my first attempt at a Command & Conquer title. I apologize if I screw anything up with aspects of the storyline that I don't quite understand. I haven't played the first two Command & Conquer games, so I'm a tad bit fuzzy on some details.
Story: 30%
Gameplay: 40%
Graphics: 20%
Durability: 10%
Story (9/10)
Nod and GDI (Global Defense Initiative) have been at war for years. The game is set far in the future, and the appearance of Tiberium (green crystals) has changed the face of the planet. The Earth is split into blue zones, yellow zones, and red zones (in order from lovely to crappy). GDI controls the blue zones and are trying to keep Tiberium out of them. Nod is trying exactly the opposite. Their leader, Kane, thinks that Tiberium is some sort of deity, and in turn, Kane is a deity to his followers.
The cinematics of this game are incredible. None of the scenes are animated and the actors are real. Granted, some of the moments are rather corny (every moment concerning the GDI general and Kane), but there are moments throughout that leave you anticipating more.
Gameplay (9/10)
This game is an example of how a perfect real-time strategy game should work. The tutorial is lengthy and gives you great explanations on how the game is played, and new troops are always explained in battles. The controls are very hard to get used to, but could not get any easier.
Missions are set up with objectives. There are also bonus objectives that can net you some sweet benefits through the battle, but only the main objectives need to be fulfilled to pass a mission. There are a few glitches with some bonus objectives, and some are not explained clearly at all. Unless you are going for a certain achievement, however, these bonus objectives can just be skipped.
Both Nod and GDI have a campaign of about fifteen missions, and (I really hate giving away spoilers) there is a third campaign (I won't tell you who) after you win both GDI's and Nod's.
Aside from the campaigns, you can play online or against friends. Obviously, there is no split-screen, but if a friend has the game, the skirmish mode is great fun.
Graphics (10/10)
In-game, the graphics are incredible, and obviously (with real-life acting) the cinematics are great.
Durability (9/10)
The missions are long, but can be saved in-progress. Multiple difficulties keep the game from being too frustrating, and the storyline keeps you anticipating more.
Overall Score (9.2/10)
Rounded Score (9/10)
Final Thoughts:
I bought this game new for around $20. You will not find a better deal for a game. If you enjoy strategy, do not pass up a chance at playing this game.