Warhammer: Dark Omen (1998)

by Ji-yeong
written by Ji-yeong 6 minutes read

Summary

Warhammer: Dark Omen (1998) – A Classic Overhead RTS with a Captivating Storyline

Released in 1998, Warhammer: Dark Omen is a real-time strategy (RTS) game set in the dark and gritty Warhammer Fantasy universe. Developed by Games Workshop and published by Electronic Arts, Dark Omen is the sequel to the critically acclaimed Warhammer: Shadow of the Horned Rat.

Gameplay

Dark Omen is an overhead RTS, meaning that players view the battlefield from a top-down perspective. Players control a variety of units, including infantry, cavalry, archers, and siege weapons. The game features a unique blend of strategy and role-playing elements, as players must manage their army, research new technologies, and make tactical decisions on the battlefield.

One of the most distinctive features of Dark Omen is its campaign mode, which features a deep and engrossing storyline. Players take on the role of Morgan Bernhardt, a young warrior who must lead his army against the forces of Chaos. The campaign is played out through a series of battles, each of which is preceded by a conversation between Morgan and his advisors. These conversations provide exposition, character development, and strategic advice.

Setting

Dark Omen is set in the Warhammer Fantasy universe, a world of dark magic, monstrous creatures, and endless war. The game takes place in the war-torn province of Ostermark, which is under attack by the forces of Chaos. Players will encounter a variety of iconic Warhammer Fantasy factions, including the Empire, Chaos, Orcs, and Goblins.

Units

Dark Omen features a wide variety of units, each with its own strengths and weaknesses. Players must carefully consider the composition of their army when going into battle. Some of the most iconic units in the game include:

  • Empire Swordsmen: The backbone of the Empire army, these infantry units are armed with swords and shields. They are relatively weak, but they are cheap to produce and can be upgraded with a variety of weapons and armor.
  • Empire Spearmen: Similar to Swordsmen, but armed with spears instead of swords. They are more effective against cavalry and large monsters.
  • Empire Archers: Ranged units that can deal significant damage from a distance. They are vulnerable to melee attacks, so they must be protected by other units.
  • Empire Knights: Elite cavalry units that are heavily armored and armed with lances. They are devastating in charges, but they are also expensive to produce.
  • Chaos Warriors: The elite infantry of Chaos, these units are armed with a variety of weapons and armor. They are powerful in melee combat, but they are also slow and expensive.
  • Chaos Knights: Similar to Chaos Warriors, but mounted on horseback. They are even more powerful in charges, but they are also even more expensive.
  • Orcs: Savage and brutal infantry units, Orcs are armed with axes and clubs. They are relatively weak, but they are numerous and can overwhelm their enemies with sheer numbers.
  • Goblins: Small and agile infantry units, Goblins are armed with bows and arrows. They are not very powerful, but they are cheap to produce and can be used to harass the enemy.

Reception

Warhammer: Dark Omen was a critical and commercial success. The game was praised for its innovative gameplay, deep storyline, and impressive graphics. It was also one of the first RTS games to feature a fully 3D engine.

Dark Omen has been praised by many critics as one of the best Warhammer Fantasy games ever made. It is still enjoyed by many fans today, and it is considered a classic of the RTS genre.

Legacy

Warhammer: Dark Omen has had a lasting impact on the RTS genre. Its innovative gameplay and deep storyline have influenced many subsequent RTS games. The game is also credited with helping to popularize the Warhammer Fantasy universe.

Dark Omen has been followed by a number of sequels and expansions, including Warhammer: Shadow of the Horned Rat (1995), Warhammer: Battle March (1999), and Warhammer: Mark of Chaos (2006). The game has also been ported to a variety of platforms, including the PC, PlayStation, and Sega Saturn.

Conclusion

Warhammer: Dark Omen is a classic RTS game that combines innovative gameplay, a deep storyline, and impressive graphics. It is a must-play for fans of the Warhammer Fantasy universe and RTS games in general.

Review Score

8/10

Art

Cover Art

Screenshots

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Ji-yeong is a passionate gamer and whose love for video games blossomed during her childhood. Growing up in the midwest, without many friends, she spent countless hours exploring the enchanting worlds of classic JRPGs like Final Fantasy and Chrono Trigger, which sparked not only an enduring love for gaming but also a keen insight into its evolving landscape. Today, Ji-yeong channels her deep-seated passion and nostalgia into thoughtful, engaging reviews that resonate with both longtime gamers and newcomers alike. Her unique perspective, rooted in a rich history of gaming, offers readers a heartfelt journey through the pixels and stories that have shaped her love for this dynamic medium. Her favorite game series of all time is Harvest Moon.

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