Summary
- Release Year: 2011
- Genres: Real Time Strategy (RTS), Strategy
- Platforms: Linux, Mac, PC (Microsoft Windows)
- Developers: Relic Entertainment
- Publishers: Feral Interactive, THQ
Warhammer 40,000: Dawn of War II – Retribution: A Triumphant Conclusion to an Epic Trilogy
Introduction
Released in 2011, Warhammer 40,000: Dawn of War II – Retribution is the standalone expansion to the critically acclaimed Dawn of War II real-time strategy franchise. Developed by Relic Entertainment and published by THQ, Retribution brings the Dawn of War II trilogy to a close with an epic single-player campaign, new multiplayer modes, and a host of new units and factions.
Gameplay
Retribution retains the core gameplay mechanics of its predecessors, offering a blend of real-time strategy and role-playing elements. Players control a squad of up to four hero units, each with their own unique abilities and upgrade paths. These heroes can then be used to lead an army of standard units into battle against the enemy.
One of the key new features in Retribution is the addition of the Last Stand mode. This cooperative multiplayer mode pits players against waves of increasingly difficult enemies. Players must work together to defend their base and survive as long as possible.
Factions
Retribution features six playable factions: the Space Marines, Orks, Eldar, Tyranids, Chaos Space Marines, and the Imperial Guard. Each faction has its own unique units, abilities, and playstyle.
- Space Marines: The stalwart defenders of humanity, the Space Marines are known for their powerful infantry and devastating weaponry.
- Orks: A brutal and savage race, the Orks rely on sheer numbers and overwhelming firepower to crush their enemies.
- Eldar: A race of ancient and enigmatic aliens, the Eldar are known for their speed, agility, and psychic powers.
- Tyranids: A ravenous horde of extraterrestrial creatures, the Tyranids seek to consume all biomass in their path.
- Chaos Space Marines: Once loyal servants of the Emperor, the Chaos Space Marines have turned to the dark gods of Chaos for power.
- Imperial Guard: The vast and diverse military forces of the Imperium, the Imperial Guard relies on sheer numbers and determination to overcome their enemies.
Campaign
The single-player campaign in Retribution is a sprawling epic that spans multiple planets and factions. Players will take on the role of a commander from one of the six playable factions and lead their forces to victory against the forces of Chaos.
The campaign is highly customizable, allowing players to choose which missions they want to play and how they want to approach each battle. Players can also level up their heroes and unlock new abilities and upgrades.
Multiplayer
Retribution offers a variety of multiplayer modes, including traditional deathmatch and team deathmatch modes, as well as the new Last Stand mode. Last Stand mode is a cooperative multiplayer mode that pits players against waves of increasingly difficult enemies. Players must work together to defend their base and survive as long as possible.
Reception
Warhammer 40,000: Dawn of War II – Retribution was met with critical acclaim upon release. Reviewers praised the game’s diverse factions, engaging campaign, and addictive multiplayer modes. Retribution was also a commercial success, selling over 1 million copies worldwide.
Legacy
Warhammer 40,000: Dawn of War II – Retribution is widely considered to be one of the best real-time strategy games ever made. The game’s innovative gameplay, memorable characters, and epic scope have left a lasting legacy on the genre. Retribution is a must-play for fans of Warhammer 40,000 and real-time strategy games alike.
Conclusion
Warhammer 40,000: Dawn of War II – Retribution is a triumphant conclusion to one of the most beloved real-time strategy franchises of all time. The game’s diverse factions, engaging campaign, and addictive multiplayer modes make it a must-play for fans of the genre.
Review Score
9/10
Art
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