E3 2002: Breed preshow report

CDV Software, the German game publisher behind the Cossacks real-time strategy series, will be demonstrating its sci-fi shooter Breed at this year's E3. The game is set in the distant future after an alien invasion wipes out most of the Earth's defenses. You will assume control of the USC Darwin, the only attack cruiser left in operation, and you'll join a small force of resistance fighters in a series of counterattacks to save the human race from destruction.

Breed is in development at UK-based Brat Designs, and it is the first game to use the studio's proprietary Mercury engine. The game takes place both on the surface of the Earth and on the Darwin in orbit. From the cruiser, you will launch strategic attacks against the alien invaders, but once the ship is discovered you will have to defend it against waves of alien attacks.

During combat, you can take control of a variety of units including fighters, dropships, tanks, armored personnel carriers, and infantry. Depending on the vehicle, you will be able to move freely between the Earth's surface and orbit. In addition to the game's single-player campaign, Breed will include a multiplayer mode.

We've posted some new screenshots in the gallery above that depict some of the game's vehicles and environments. Breed is scheduled for release this fall.