Command & Conquer: Red Alert (1996)

by Christopher
written by Christopher 7 minutes read

Summary

Command & Conquer: Red Alert (1996)

Released in 1996, Command & Conquer: Red Alert is a real-time strategy (RTS) game developed by Westwood Studios and published by Virgin Interactive Entertainment. It is the first game in the Red Alert series, a spin-off of the Command & Conquer franchise. Red Alert is set in an alternate timeline where the Soviet Union has launched a surprise attack on Europe, and the Allies are struggling to hold them back.

The game features two playable factions: the Allies and the Soviets. The Allies are a diverse coalition of nations, including the United States, the United Kingdom, and France. They are led by General Carville and have access to a variety of advanced weapons and technologies, such as the Chronosphere, which can be used to teleport units across the map.

The Soviets are a powerful and ruthless force, led by the enigmatic Premier Stalin. They have a vast army of tanks, aircraft, and infantry, as well as access to experimental weapons such as the Tesla coil and the nuclear missile.

Red Alert is a fast-paced and challenging RTS game that requires players to carefully manage their resources and units in order to succeed. The game features a variety of missions, each with its own unique objectives. Players must use their wits and strategic skills to overcome the enemy and achieve victory.

Gameplay

Red Alert is a real-time strategy game in which players control a base and army to defeat their opponents. Players must gather resources, build structures, and produce units in order to grow their army and attack the enemy.

The game features a variety of units, including infantry, tanks, aircraft, and ships. Each unit has its own unique strengths and weaknesses, and players must carefully consider which units to build and how to use them in order to succeed.

Red Alert also features a number of special abilities that can be used to turn the tide of battle. These abilities include the Chronosphere, which can be used to teleport units across the map, and the Tesla coil, which can be used to damage enemy units.

Setting

Red Alert is set in an alternate timeline where the Soviet Union has launched a surprise attack on Europe. The game’s story follows the Allied forces as they attempt to repel the Soviet invasion and restore peace to the world.

The game’s setting is inspired by the real-world Cold War, and many of the game’s characters and units are based on real-world counterparts. However, Red Alert also features a number of fantastical elements, such as the Chronosphere and the Tesla coil.

Reception

Red Alert was a critical and commercial success, selling over 3 million copies worldwide. The game was praised for its fast-paced gameplay, innovative features, and well-written story. Red Alert is considered to be one of the best RTS games ever made, and it has been credited with helping to popularize the genre.

Legacy

Red Alert has had a lasting impact on the RTS genre. The game’s fast-paced gameplay, innovative features, and well-written story have served as a model for many subsequent RTS games. Red Alert has also spawned a number of sequels and spin-offs, including Red Alert 2, Red Alert 3, and Command & Conquer: Red Alert 4.

The Red Alert series is still popular today, and it continues to be enjoyed by gamers around the world. The games are known for their fast-paced gameplay, innovative features, and well-written stories. Red Alert is a classic RTS game that is still worth playing today.

Additional Information

  • Red Alert was the first RTS game to feature a fully 3D engine.
  • The game’s soundtrack was composed by Frank Klepacki, who also composed the soundtracks for other Westwood Studios games such as Dune II and Command & Conquer.
  • Red Alert was originally supposed to be a standalone expansion pack for Command & Conquer, but it was eventually released as a full-fledged game.
  • The game has been ported to a variety of platforms, including the PC, PlayStation, and Sega Saturn.
  • Red Alert has been the subject of several novels and comic books.

Review Score

9/10

Art

Cover Art

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Christopher has carved a niche for himself as an authority on retro pre-2000 computer games. With a passion that borders on reverence, Christopher delves deep into the pixelated past of gaming, unearthing gems and sharing insights that resonate with both nostalgic players and curious newcomers. His articles serve as a time machine, transporting readers back to an era where gameplay and creativity often trumped graphical fidelity. Cristopher's expertise isn't just in cataloging these classics; he analyzes their design, the context of their creation, and their impact on the gaming landscape, offering a comprehensive look at the evolution of digital entertainment. Beyond mere retrospectives, Christopher champions the relevance of these retro games in today's high-definition world. He skillfully draws parallels between the foundational mechanics of yesteryear's titles and the modern gaming innovations they inspired. His work goes beyond mere preservation; it's an ongoing dialogue between the past and present of gaming. Christopher's content educates, entertains, and ignites discussions within the gaming community. His dedication not only keeps the legacy of pre-2000 games alive but also highlights their importance in shaping the future of video gaming.

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