Summary
- Release Year: 2000
- Genres: Strategy, Tactical
- Platforms: PC (Microsoft Windows)
- Developers: High Voltage Software, Massive Entertainment
- Publishers: Rebellion Developments, Sierra On-Line
Ground Control: Dark Conspiracy (2000)
Ground Control: Dark Conspiracy is an expansion pack for the 2000 real-time strategy (RTS) game Ground Control. Developed by Massive Entertainment and published by Sierra Entertainment, it was released on November 15, 2000. Dark Conspiracy adds a new faction, the Cybran Nation, as well as 15 new single-player missions and new multiplayer maps.
Gameplay
Ground Control: Dark Conspiracy retains the core gameplay of the original game. Players control a squad of exoskeleton-clad soldiers in a top-down perspective. The game features a variety of units, each with its own strengths and weaknesses. Players must use their units to capture and hold strategic points on the map, while also destroying enemy units and structures.
Dark Conspiracy introduces several new features to the gameplay. The most significant of these is the addition of the Cybran Nation. The Cybran are a technologically advanced faction that uses stealth and deception to gain an edge over their enemies. They have a variety of unique units, including the Shade, a stealthed infantry unit, and the Titan, a powerful walker.
In addition to the new faction, Dark Conspiracy also adds 15 new single-player missions. These missions are more challenging than those in the original game, and they offer a variety of new objectives. Players must use their wits and tactical skills to overcome the challenges posed by the Cybran Nation.
Finally, Dark Conspiracy also adds several new multiplayer maps. These maps are designed for both competitive and cooperative play. They offer a variety of different environments and challenges, ensuring that players will have plenty of replayability.
Story
The story of Ground Control: Dark Conspiracy takes place after the events of the original game. The Earth has been ravaged by war, and the United States government has collapsed. In the chaos that followed, a new faction emerged: the Cybran Nation.
The Cybran are a group of rebels who believe that the United States government has betrayed the people. They are led by a charismatic leader named Kane, who is determined to overthrow the government and establish a new world order.
The player takes on the role of a commander in the United States Marine Corps. Their mission is to stop the Cybran Nation and restore order to the world.
Reception
Ground Control: Dark Conspiracy was met with positive reviews from critics. Many praised the game for its challenging gameplay, new faction, and well-designed missions. The game was also a commercial success, selling over 1 million copies worldwide.
Legacy
Ground Control: Dark Conspiracy is considered to be one of the best RTS games ever made. It is praised for its innovative gameplay, challenging missions, and memorable story. The game has also been credited with helping to popularize the use of exosuits in RTS games.
Conclusion
Ground Control: Dark Conspiracy is an excellent expansion pack that adds a lot of new content to the original game. The new faction, missions, and maps provide plenty of replayability, and the story is engaging and well-written. If you are a fan of RTS games, then you owe it to yourself to check out Ground Control: Dark Conspiracy.
Additional Information
- Developer: Massive Entertainment
- Publisher: Sierra Entertainment
- Release Date: November 15, 2000
- Genre: Real-time strategy (RTS)
- Platforms: Windows
- ESRB Rating: T for Teen
Review Score
8.5/10
