Summary
- Release Year: 2006
- Genres: Real Time Strategy (RTS), Sport, Strategy
- Platforms: PC (Microsoft Windows)
- Developers: SEK
- Publishers: Aspyr Media, Deep Silver
ParaWorld: A Unique and Engaging Real-Time Strategy Game
Released in 2006, ParaWorld is a real-time strategy (RTS) game that combines the familiar gameplay of Age of Empires with a prehistoric setting. Developed by SEK and published by Sunflowers Interactive, ParaWorld features a unique blend of resource management, unit production, and combat that sets it apart from other RTS games.
Setting
ParaWorld is set in a parallel dimension, where prehistoric life thrives alongside diverse human civilizations that are not technologically advanced. As a result, dinosaurs take the place of traditional wildlife and livestock, though some of the dinosaurs in-game are highly stylized and not necessarily scientifically accurate. Wild-living dinosaurs can be hunted for food, though some are of dangerous and aggressive species and will attack any player unit that wanders too close. Other prehistoric creatures make an appearance as well, for example woolly mammoths are used where other games might feature elephants.
Gameplay
ParaWorld’s gameplay is similar to other RTS games in that players must collect resources, build structures, and produce units in order to defeat their opponents. However, ParaWorld also features some unique gameplay mechanics that set it apart from other games in the genre.
One of the most unique aspects of ParaWorld is its resource system. In addition to the traditional resources of food, wood, and stone, ParaWorld also features a fourth resource called “knowledge.” Knowledge is used to research new technologies and upgrades, and it can be obtained by building libraries and universities.
Another unique aspect of ParaWorld is its unit production system. In most RTS games, players can only produce units from barracks or other military buildings. However, in ParaWorld, players can also produce units from farms, mines, and other resource-gathering buildings. This allows players to be more flexible in their unit production and to adapt to the changing needs of the battlefield.
Combat
Combat in ParaWorld is fast-paced and exciting. Players can control a variety of units, including infantry, cavalry, artillery, and dinosaurs. Each unit has its own strengths and weaknesses, and players must carefully consider their unit composition when engaging in combat.
One of the most important aspects of combat in ParaWorld is positioning. Players must carefully position their units in order to maximize their effectiveness and minimize their losses. For example, infantry units are more effective when they are positioned behind cover, while cavalry units are more effective when they are able to charge into the enemy lines.
Epochs
ParaWorld features a unique epoch system that allows players to advance through different technological eras. As players progress through the epochs, they will unlock new technologies and upgrades for their units and buildings. This system adds a sense of progression to the game and allows players to customize their playstyle to suit their own preferences.
Reception
ParaWorld was released to generally positive reviews from critics. The game was praised for its unique setting, innovative gameplay mechanics, and challenging combat. However, some critics found the game to be too difficult and repetitive.
Overall, ParaWorld is a unique and engaging RTS game that offers a refreshing change of pace from the traditional historical settings of most other games in the genre. With its diverse civilizations, realistic graphics, and challenging gameplay, ParaWorld is a must-play for fans of the genre.
Tips for Playing ParaWorld
Here are a few tips for playing ParaWorld:
- Collect resources efficiently. Resources are essential for building units and structures, so it is important to collect them efficiently. The best way to do this is to build multiple resource-gathering buildings and to upgrade them as soon as possible.
- Research new technologies. New technologies and upgrades can give your units and buildings a significant advantage in combat. Be sure to research new technologies as soon as they become available.
- Position your units carefully. Positioning is key to winning battles in ParaWorld. Make sure to position your units in a way that maximizes their effectiveness and minimizes their losses.
- Adapt to the changing needs of the battlefield. The battlefield in ParaWorld is constantly changing, so it is important to be able to adapt to the changing needs of the battle. For example, if your opponent is fielding a lot of cavalry units, you may need to build more spearmen or other anti-cavalry units.
- Don’t be afraid to experiment. ParaWorld offers a lot of different units and strategies, so don’t be afraid to experiment to find what works best for you. The more you experiment, the better you will become at the game.
Review Score
8/10