Summary
- Release Year: 1987
- Genres: Strategy, Turn-based strategy (TBS)
- Platforms: Amstrad CPC, Commodore C64/128/MAX, ZX Spectrum
- Developers: Software Studios
- Publishers: Activision
High Frontier (1987): A Space Strategy Classic
Released in 1987, High Frontier is a space strategy game that puts players in charge of developing the Strategic Defense Initiative (SDI), also known as “Star Wars,” to defend Earth from a feared Soviet missile attack. Developed by Microprose and designed by Sid Meier, High Frontier is a complex and challenging game that offers a unique blend of strategy, simulation, and resource management.
Gameplay
High Frontier is played on a map of the Earth, which is divided into a grid of squares. Players begin the game with a limited number of resources, including money, scientists, and engineers. These resources must be used to build and maintain a network of satellites, lasers, and other defensive structures.
The goal of the game is to successfully defend Earth from a series of Soviet missile attacks. These attacks occur in waves, with each wave becoming increasingly difficult to repel. Players must carefully manage their resources and make strategic decisions in order to survive.
SDI Technologies
High Frontier features a variety of SDI technologies that players can use to defend Earth. These technologies include:
- Satellites: Satellites provide early warning of Soviet missile launches and can be used to track and destroy incoming missiles.
- Lasers: Lasers can be used to destroy Soviet missiles in mid-air.
- Particle beams: Particle beams are even more powerful than lasers and can be used to destroy Soviet satellites and other targets.
- Kinetic kill vehicles: Kinetic kill vehicles are non-explosive projectiles that can be used to destroy Soviet missiles by colliding with them at high speed.
Resource Management
In addition to managing their SDI technologies, players must also carefully manage their resources. Resources are used to build and maintain SDI defenses, as well as to conduct research and development. Players must carefully balance their spending in order to maximize their chances of success.
Difficulty
High Frontier is a challenging game, even for experienced strategy gamers. The Soviet missile attacks are relentless and can be difficult to repel, especially in the later waves. Players must carefully manage their resources and make strategic decisions in order to survive.
Legacy
High Frontier was a critical and commercial success, and is considered to be one of the best space strategy games ever made. The game has been praised for its realism, complexity, and challenge. High Frontier has also been credited with inspiring a number of other space strategy games, including the popular Homeworld series.
Conclusion
High Frontier is a classic space strategy game that offers a unique blend of strategy, simulation, and resource management. The game is challenging, but also rewarding, and offers a deep and immersive experience for players. If you are a fan of space strategy games, then High Frontier is definitely worth checking out.
Tips for Playing High Frontier
Here are a few tips for playing High Frontier:
- Start by building a network of satellites to provide early warning of Soviet missile launches.
- Focus on developing and deploying laser and particle beam weapons to destroy Soviet missiles.
- Use kinetic kill vehicles to destroy Soviet satellites and other targets.
- Carefully manage your resources and make strategic decisions in order to maximize your chances of success.
- Don’t be afraid to experiment with different strategies and tactics.
Review Score
8/10
Art
Cover Art
Screenshots
