Doesn't Command: Definiately Doesn't Conquer (Command & Conquer Generals (PC))

Member Name: chris212

Product:	Command & Conquer Generals (PC)
Date:	26/05/09 (5 review reads)
Rating:

Advantages: Move to 3D graphics

Disadvantages: No relation to previous games, not as interesting

Generals is a branch off of the main Command and Conquer series, that does not include the main characters such Kane. While the game is a branch of, it maintains the same style of game play of the series; but in my opinion loses some of the essence of the series in the process.

Generals follows in the same model as previous games in the series, in that you establish your base of operations for the level, collect resources, build up your army and crush your enemies. Within the game there are three different nations and organisations the player can play as these are, the USA, China and GLA (a terrorist organisation). The country or organisation that the player chooses determines the way the play has to play the game. As the USA uses superior technology, which comes at a price, while the Chinese use number and big tanks, while the GLA use stealth and shadow techniques because of their limited resources and have to scavenge.

The way the game in story mode is delivered is through live action cut scenes at the beginning of each level. Although in Generals, the way this is done is through news reporters giving reports. The problem I have with this is it does feel like you are being engaged with the game, unlike Generals predecessors and successors have done. As it is the over the top acting that many who enjoy the Command and Conquer series enjoy watching as part of the game, as it is established characters that you can relate to.

In terms of game play, the game plays the same as all the other games in the series but the user interface has been redesigned. The way the game has been designed is by removing the production queue at the side of the bar and the only way the production queues can be accessed is by clicking on the relevant building on the screen. This creates a problem as you continually have to go to that building to start production of a particular type of unit, this can mean you are taken away from the main action, if for example your units are in battle and need reinforcements, your attention is distracted.

The type of PC that is needed to run the game does not have to be the most up to date to be played, but will need something of decent quality to play; as it is not the most taking of games unlike something like Supreme Commander. The graphics of the game are decent, as it was a move from 2D to 3D graphics but nothing special that makes the game stand out.

What this game seems like is just a stand-in between game releases, which it is, as not long after EA released Command and Conquer 3: Tiberium Wars. While the game is good it is not up to the usual stand of the franchise, as it feels like a game that was churned out just to make money. As although there is nothing especially wrong with the game, there is nothing special about the game either to make it stand out other than the name, Command and Conquer.

Summary: If found cheap buy, otherwise buy Tiberium War or RA: 3