They totally blew it with this third installment of Empire Earth!
First of all, what I really liked about EE2, was the vast amount of Epoch. 15 era's to research! and what's more fun, than to nuke a few cavemen. In this version, there are only 5 era's. Then the campaign. This is nothing more than a world domination mode. There is no story what so ever. And the game-play is f*cked up. A lot of menu's and side panels, without the proper information on how to get it to work. Even with the tool tips, it'll take you up to a few hours until you fully understand the world domination gameplay.
The normal skirmish missions add nothing to the game sensation. They upgraded the graphics, which is a good thing, however they messed up the programming. The graphics don't look that demanding for your computer, but I was disappointed to get lag in the game. (and this isn't caused by the hardware.)
One other thing about the world domination mode is very annoying. Once you've conquered a certain territory, you've probably build a base, defenses etc. Because it's a campaign, you would think these building would remain in place. But as soon as you're attacked in one of you own territories. This entire map is empty, apart from a single builder and town centre. So far for all your good investments in that part of your empire!
So let's summarize:
Graphics: look ok, but poorly programmed.
Sound: annoying comments from units. Very poor humour.
Game play: during skirmish, standard. during world domination, f*cked up.
Added value being the third installment: below sea level.
If you like Empire Earth: stick to EE2!!!! don't buy EE3 or you'll be dissapointed.