Summary
- Release Year: 2001
- Genres: Indie, Real Time Strategy (RTS), Strategy
- Platforms: PC (Microsoft Windows)
- Developers: ALTAR Games
- Publishers: Bohemia Interactive Studio
Original War (2001): A Classic RTS with a Unique Time Travel Mechanic
Original War is a real-time strategy (RTS) game developed by Altar Interactive and released in 2001. The game is set in an alternate history where an American geological expedition discovers a deposit of a hitherto unknown mineral in Siberia. This mineral is later found to be identical to the substance used to power an extraterrestrial artifact in the possession of the US Department of Defense.
The artifact, called the EON (Extraterrestrial Object Nexus), was found in 1919 by Colonel Emerson near the site of the Tunguska explosion. Experiments have shown that items placed in the capsule are transported hundreds of thousands of years back in time.
The American scientists were not able to understand its construction, nor could they manage to synthesize its fuel. Eventually, the machine – classified Top Secret – was stored, pending further advances in human science.
The discovery of the mineral in Siberia leads to a renewed interest in the EON, and the US government decides to send a team of scientists to investigate the site. The team is led by Dr. Emily Carter, a brilliant scientist who is determined to unlock the secrets of the EON.
However, the team’s mission is soon compromised by a group of Russian nationalists who are also interested in the EON. The nationalists believe that the EON is a weapon that can be used to conquer the world, and they are determined to seize it for themselves.
Dr. Carter and her team must now race against time to stop the nationalists from getting their hands on the EON. They must also unravel the secrets of the artifact and learn how to use its power to prevent it from falling into the wrong hands.
Gameplay
Original War is a real-time strategy game that combines traditional RTS elements with a unique time travel mechanic. Players can construct buildings, train units, and research upgrades, but they can also use the EON to send units back in time.
This time travel mechanic adds a new layer of strategy to the game, as players must carefully consider when and where to send their units. Sending units back in time can be used to gain an advantage in battle, but it can also be risky, as units can be lost if they are not properly prepared.
Reception
Original War was released to critical acclaim, with many reviewers praising its innovative gameplay and unique setting. The game was a commercial success, selling over 1 million copies worldwide.
Legacy
Original War is considered to be one of the best RTS games ever made. Its unique time travel mechanic has been praised by critics and players alike, and it has inspired other games to incorporate similar mechanics.
The game has also been praised for its strong story and characters. Dr. Emily Carter is a well-developed and relatable protagonist, and the game’s supporting cast is equally well-written.
Original War is a classic RTS game that is still enjoyed by many players today. Its innovative gameplay, unique setting, and strong story make it a must-play for any fan of the genre.
Additional Information
- Original War was developed by Altar Interactive, a Czech video game developer.
- The game was published by Gathering of Developers, a now-defunct video game publisher.
- Original War was released for Microsoft Windows in 2001.
- The game was later ported to Linux and macOS.
- Original War has received several awards, including the Game of the Year award from GameSpot.
- The game has been praised for its innovative gameplay, unique setting, and strong story.
- Original War is considered to be one of the best RTS games ever made.
Review Score
8.5/10
Art
Cover Art
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