Summary
- Release Year: 2009
- Genres: Real Time Strategy (RTS), Strategy
- Platforms: PC (Microsoft Windows)
- Developers: Lesta Studio
- Publishers: Strategy First
9th Company: Roots of Terror: A Harrowing Depiction of the Soviet-Afghan War
Introduction
9th Company: Roots of Terror is an action-oriented real-time strategy game developed by G5 Software and published by Buka Entertainment. It was released in 2009 for Microsoft Windows, PlayStation 3, and Xbox 360. The game is based on the actual events of the Battle of Hill 3234, which took place during the Soviet military campaign in Afghanistan.
Gameplay
9th Company is played from a third-person perspective. The player controls a squad of Soviet soldiers and must complete a variety of objectives, such as capturing enemy positions, defending against waves of attackers, and escorting VIPs. The game features a unique cover system that allows the player to take cover behind objects and lean out to fire.
The player’s squad consists of a variety of different unit types, each with their own strengths and weaknesses. Riflemen are the basic infantry unit, and they are armed with assault rifles. Machine gunners provide suppressive fire, and they can be used to pin down enemy units. Grenadiers can fire grenades at enemy positions, and they are effective against groups of enemies. Medics can heal wounded units, and they are essential for keeping the squad alive.
The player must use a combination of strategy and tactics to succeed in 9th Company. The game requires the player to carefully position their units and make use of cover to avoid taking unnecessary casualties. The player must also be aware of the enemy’s strengths and weaknesses, and they must adapt their tactics accordingly.
Story
9th Company follows the story of a ragged band of young recruits undergoing brutal training in Uzbekistan’s Fergana Valley. The recruits are part of the 9th Company of the 345th Guards Airborne Regiment, and they are preparing for a dangerous mission in Afghanistan.
The mission takes place on Hill 3234, a strategically important position that overlooks the Afghan city of Khost. The 9th Company is tasked with capturing the hill and holding it against a force of Mujahideen guerrillas.
The battle is fierce, and the 9th Company suffers heavy casualties. However, the soldiers manage to hold their position, and they eventually force the Mujahideen to retreat.
The victory is a Pyrrhic one, as the 9th Company has lost many of its men. However, the soldiers have proven their courage and determination, and they have earned the respect of their enemies.
Historical Accuracy
9th Company is based on the actual events of the Battle of Hill 3234. The game’s developers worked closely with veterans of the battle to ensure that the game was as historically accurate as possible.
The game accurately recreates the terrain of Hill 3234, and it features realistic weapons and equipment. The game also depicts the battle in a realistic manner, and it does not shy away from the violence and brutality of war.
Reception
9th Company received mixed reviews from critics. Some praised the game’s historical accuracy and its intense gameplay, while others criticized its repetitive missions and its lack of innovation.
Despite the mixed reviews, 9th Company was a commercial success. The game sold over 1 million copies worldwide, and it was nominated for several awards.
Legacy
9th Company is remembered as one of the most realistic and immersive war games of its time. The game’s historical accuracy and its intense gameplay have made it a favorite among fans of military history and strategy games.
9th Company has also been praised for its respectful portrayal of the Soviet soldiers who fought in Afghanistan. The game does not glorify war, and it shows the human cost of conflict.
Conclusion
9th Company: Roots of Terror is a harrowing and thought-provoking game that tells the story of a little-known battle in the Soviet-Afghan War. The game’s historical accuracy, its intense gameplay, and its respectful portrayal of the Soviet soldiers make it a must-play for fans of military history and strategy games.
Review Score
7.5/10
Art
Cover Art
Screenshots
