Summary
- Release Year: 2005
- Genres: Strategy, Turn-based strategy (TBS)
- Platforms: iOS, Mac, PC (Microsoft Windows)
- Publishers: DreamCatcher Interactive, Virtual Programming, Wargaming.net
Domination (2005): A Deep Dive into the Sci-Fi Turn-Based Strategy Classic
Introduction:
Released in 2005, Domination is a turn-based strategy game set in distant space colonies amidst a renewed global conflict between the Free Nations Union and Phantom League. As a successor to the critically acclaimed Massive Assault, Domination expands upon its predecessor’s innovative “Secret Allies” concept, offering a challenging and rewarding gameplay experience that revitalized the turn-based strategy genre.
Gameplay:
Domination’s gameplay revolves around controlling units on a hexagonal grid, engaging in tactical battles against enemy forces. Players command a variety of unit types, each with unique abilities and strengths. Infantry, tanks, artillery, and aircraft comprise the core of your army, while specialized units like engineers, hackers, and spies add depth and tactical options.
The game’s “Secret Allies” system introduces a unique twist to the gameplay. Players can secretly ally with other factions, gaining access to their units and abilities while keeping their alliance hidden from opponents. This mechanic adds a layer of deception and strategy, as players must carefully consider their alliances and the potential consequences of revealing them.
Setting and Story:
Domination takes place in a futuristic setting where humanity has colonized distant star systems. The Free Nations Union, a democratic alliance, and the Phantom League, a secretive and enigmatic organization, engage in a global conflict that spans multiple planets and space colonies.
The game’s story unfolds through a series of missions, each with its own objectives and challenges. Players must navigate political intrigue, uncover secret alliances, and make difficult choices that shape the course of the conflict.
Features:
- Turn-based strategy gameplay: Domination offers deep and engaging turn-based strategy gameplay, challenging players to outmaneuver and outsmart their opponents.
- “Secret Allies” system: This unique mechanic adds a layer of deception and strategy to the gameplay, allowing players to form secret alliances and gain access to new units and abilities.
- Variety of unit types: Players command a diverse range of units, each with unique abilities and strengths, providing tactical depth and customization options.
- Futuristic setting: Domination takes place in a well-realized and immersive sci-fi setting, featuring distant star systems, space colonies, and advanced technology.
- Engaging story: The game’s story unfolds through a series of missions, offering political intrigue, secret alliances, and difficult choices that shape the conflict’s outcome.
Critical Reception:
Upon its release, Domination received critical acclaim for its innovative gameplay, engaging story, and polished presentation. Reviewers praised the game’s “Secret Allies” system for adding depth and strategy to the turn-based combat, while the futuristic setting and engaging story were also highlighted as strengths.
Domination was nominated for several awards, including “Best Strategy Game” at the 2005 Game Developers Choice Awards and “Game of the Year” at the 2005 Golden Joystick Awards. The game also received high review scores, with an average of 85/100 on Metacritic.
Legacy:
Domination remains a beloved classic among turn-based strategy fans. Its innovative gameplay mechanics, engaging story, and polished presentation have cemented its place as one of the genre’s finest examples. The game’s “Secret Allies” system has been cited as an influence on later turn-based strategy games, and its futuristic setting and well-written story continue to captivate players today.
Conclusion:
Domination (2005) is a masterful turn-based strategy game that combines innovative gameplay, a compelling story, and a polished presentation. Its “Secret Allies” system adds a unique layer of deception and strategy, while the futuristic setting and engaging narrative provide a rich and immersive experience. Domination remains a must-play for fans of the genre and a testament to the enduring appeal of well-crafted turn-based strategy games.
Review Score
8.5/10
Art
Cover Art
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