This gorgeous looking real time strategy game is set in an alternate history where the Cold War gave way to an epic conflict across the globe. The USSR invades the United States and Europe sparking a war of attrition which quickly turns nuclear. In the compelling and engrossing single player game you have to complete a number of unique missions and the game has been skilfully designed with high production values. There is also an addictive multiplayer option which forces you to focus on co-operation if you want to emerge victorious.
You play the game as a green lieutenant and as things progress you’ll meet a varied cast of characters who are brought to life thanks to some terrific art, FMV sequences and quality voice acting. Surprisingly the game has a bit of emotional depth and as you take charge of NATO and US forces it is impossible not to be drawn into the realistically portrayed struggle. Alec Baldwin provides the voiceover for the mission briefings and this adds a further touch of gravity to the proceedings. The set up and background is excellent and extremely immersive.
The game-play itself is quite complex so you should probably check out the tutorials. Camera movement is standard WASD and you start each map with a number of re-enforcement points which you can use to call in more troops. The array of destructive options at your fingertips is impressive and tactically speaking the approach you take is left up to you. You get a rolling series of objectives as you play and when one gets ticked off a new one pops up until you have completed the level. They range from capturing and holding areas and buildings to destroying specific locations or finding people.
There is a definite learning curve here and you will need to master the ability to multi-task. Things can get extremely chaotic and it is not always easy to stay on top of the battles. You can pause the game at any time but you can’t issue orders when it is paused so you’ll need to learn how to handle the pressure in real time. You get a different choice of troops and weaponry in each mission and the tactical depth is satisfying and prevents the action from ever feeling repetitive.