Summary
- Release Year: 2003
- Genres: Fighting, Real Time Strategy (RTS), Shooter, Strategy
- Platforms: Linux, Mac, PC (Microsoft Windows)
- Developers: S2 Games
- Publishers: S2 Games
Savage: The Battle for Newerth (2003): A Pioneering Masterpiece of RTS/FPS Fusion
Released in 2003 by S2 Games, Savage: The Battle for Newerth was a groundbreaking game that fused the genres of real-time strategy (RTS) and first-person shooter (FPS) in a way that had never been done before. While the game was initially criticized for its unpolished state and lack of basic features, it was also lauded for its innovative gameplay and technical excellence, winning multiple awards at the Independent Games Festival 2004, including the Seumas McNally Grand Prize and the Technical Excellence Award.
A Unique Blend of RTS and FPS
Savage: The Battle for Newerth is set in a futuristic world where two factions, the Legion and the Vanguard, are locked in a bitter war for control of the planet Newerth. Players can choose to play as either faction, each with its own unique units, abilities, and playstyles.
The game’s most distinctive feature is its innovative blend of RTS and FPS gameplay. Players control both a commander unit from a top-down perspective and a first-person shooter soldier simultaneously. The commander unit can build structures, research upgrades, and control other units, while the FPS soldier can engage in combat directly with enemy units.
This unique gameplay mechanic allows for a wide range of strategic and tactical possibilities. Players must constantly switch between their commander and FPS soldier perspectives to manage their resources, build their base, and engage in combat. The game’s fast-paced and action-packed gameplay creates a truly immersive and engaging experience.
Innovative Features and Technical Prowess
In addition to its unique gameplay, Savage: The Battle for Newerth was also praised for its innovative features and technical prowess. The game featured a number of cutting-edge graphics and physics effects for its time, including real-time lighting, dynamic shadows, and destructible environments.
The game’s AI was also highly praised, with enemies exhibiting intelligent and adaptive behavior. The game’s soundtrack was also well-received, with its mix of electronic and orchestral music creating a suitably epic and immersive atmosphere.
Critical Reception and Legacy
Despite its initial flaws, Savage: The Battle for Newerth was a critical and commercial success. The game won multiple awards, including the Seumas McNally Grand Prize and the Technical Excellence Award at the Independent Games Festival 2004, as well as the Editor’s Choice Award from IGN.com.
The game’s legacy is still felt today. Savage: The Battle for Newerth is considered to be one of the pioneers of the RTS/FPS genre, and its influence can be seen in many subsequent games, such as Natural Selection and StarCraft II.
Open Source and Community Development
In 2006, S2 Games released Savage: The Battle for Newerth as freeware and open source. This allowed the game’s community to continue developing and improving the game long after its official support had ended.
Over the years, the Savage community has released numerous updates and mods for the game, including new maps, units, and gameplay features. The game’s modding community is still active today, and there are a number of popular mods available for download.
Conclusion
Savage: The Battle for Newerth is a truly unique and groundbreaking game that deserves to be remembered as one of the pioneers of the RTS/FPS genre. Its innovative gameplay, technical prowess, and dedicated community have ensured that the game remains popular and playable to this day. If you’re a fan of RTS or FPS games, or if you’re simply looking for a unique and challenging gaming experience, then Savage: The Battle for Newerth is definitely worth checking out.
Review Score
8.5/10
Art
Cover Art
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