Summary
- Release Year: 1997
- Genres: Real Time Strategy (RTS), Strategy
- Platforms: DOS, PC (Microsoft Windows)
- Developers: Westwood Studios
- Publishers: Sony Computer Entertainment, Virgin Interactive Entertainment
Command & Conquer: Red Alert – Counterstrike is the first expansion pack for the real-time strategy game Command & Conquer: Red Alert. It was developed by Westwood Studios and published by Virgin Interactive Entertainment in 1997. The expansion adds 16 new single-player missions, new units for both the Allies and Soviets, and four secret missions featuring a new enemy faction, the Giant Ants.
Gameplay
The gameplay in Counterstrike is very similar to that of the original Red Alert. Players collect resources, build bases, and produce units to defeat their opponents. The new units in Counterstrike include the Allied Guardian Tank, the Soviet Tesla Tank, and the Giant Ant Queen. The Guardian Tank is a powerful anti-air unit, while the Tesla Tank can attack both air and ground units. The Giant Ant Queen is a massive unit that can produce smaller Giant Ants.
The secret Ant missions are a unique addition to Counterstrike. In these missions, players control a group of Allied or Soviet soldiers who must fight their way through hordes of Giant Ants. The Giant Ants are much stronger than regular infantry, so players must use their wits and resources to survive.
Story
The story of Counterstrike takes place after the events of the original Red Alert. The Allies have defeated the Soviets and are now trying to rebuild their shattered world. However, a new threat has emerged: the Giant Ants. These massive creatures have been mutated by the war and are now rampaging across the countryside. The Allies and Soviets must put aside their differences and work together to defeat this new enemy.
Reception
Counterstrike was well-received by critics and fans alike. It was praised for its new units, missions, and the addition of the Giant Ants. The expansion pack also helped to extend the lifespan of Red Alert and keep it one of the most popular RTS games of all time.
Legacy
Counterstrike is still considered one of the best expansions ever made. It added a significant amount of new content to Red Alert and helped to keep the game fresh and exciting. The expansion pack also introduced some new ideas that would be further developed in later Command & Conquer games.
Here are some of the key features of Command & Conquer: Red Alert – Counterstrike:
- 16 new single-player missions
- New units for both the Allies and Soviets
- Four secret missions featuring a new enemy faction, the Giant Ants
- New multiplayer maps
- Improved AI
- Enhanced graphics and sound
If you’re a fan of Command & Conquer: Red Alert, then you should definitely check out Counterstrike. It’s a great expansion pack that adds a lot of new content and features to the game.
Review Score
8/10