Publisher: Red Storm Entertainment

Force 21 (1999)

by Christopher
written by Christopher 6 minutes read

Summary

Force 21 (1999): A Real-Time Strategy Gem on Game Boy Color

Released in 1999, Force 21 is a real-time strategy (RTS) game for the Game Boy Color. Developed by Bits Studios and published by THQ, it was one of the first RTS games to be released on a handheld console.

Set in the year 2015, Force 21 depicts a world ravaged by World War III. Nuclear warfare has become ineffective due to advances in technology, so the war is being fought with conventional forces. Players take control of either the American or Chinese military forces and must battle their way through 16 missions in order to complete the game.

Force 21 features eight different unit types, each with its own strengths and weaknesses. These units include infantry, tanks, helicopters, and artillery. Players must carefully manage their resources and use their units effectively in order to succeed.

The game’s missions take place in a variety of locations around the world, from barren snowfields to yawning deserts to crowded cityscapes. Each mission has its own unique objectives, and players must adapt their strategies accordingly.

Force 21 was praised for its deep and engaging gameplay, as well as its impressive graphics for the time. It was a critical and commercial success, and it remains one of the most popular RTS games on Game Boy Color.

Gameplay

Force 21 is a real-time strategy game in which players control either the American or Chinese military forces. The game features eight different unit types, each with its own strengths and weaknesses. Players must carefully manage their resources and use their units effectively in order to succeed.

The game’s missions take place in a variety of locations around the world, from barren snowfields to yawning deserts to crowded cityscapes. Each mission has its own unique objectives, and players must adapt their strategies accordingly.

Force 21 features both single-player and multiplayer modes. In single-player mode, players can choose from a variety of missions to play. In multiplayer mode, players can compete against each other via link cable.

Units

Force 21 features eight different unit types, each with its own strengths and weaknesses. These units include:

  • Infantry: Infantry are the weakest unit in the game, but they are also the cheapest and most versatile. They can be used to capture buildings, repair units, and attack enemy units.
  • Tanks: Tanks are powerful units that can deal a lot of damage. However, they are also slow and expensive. Tanks are best used to support infantry and attack enemy armor.
  • Helicopters: Helicopters are fast and maneuverable units that can be used to transport troops and attack enemy units. However, they are also vulnerable to anti-aircraft fire.
  • Artillery: Artillery units can attack enemy units from a distance. However, they are slow and immobile. Artillery is best used to support other units and attack enemy fortifications.
  • Anti-aircraft: Anti-aircraft units can attack enemy aircraft. They are essential for defending against enemy air attacks.
  • Missiles: Missile units can attack enemy units from a long distance. However, they are expensive and slow to reload. Missiles are best used to attack enemy fortifications and high-value targets.
  • Nukes: Nukes are the most powerful weapons in the game. They can instantly destroy any enemy unit or building. However, nukes are also very expensive and can only be used a few times per mission.

Resources

There are two main resources in Force 21: money and fuel. Money is used to purchase units and buildings. Fuel is used to power units and buildings. Players must carefully manage their resources in order to succeed.

Money can be collected by capturing buildings and defeating enemy units. Fuel can be collected by capturing oil derricks and refineries.

Buildings

There are a variety of buildings in Force 21, including barracks, factories, and power plants. Barracks are used to train units. Factories are used to produce vehicles. Power plants are used to generate electricity.

Players must carefully place their buildings in order to maximize their efficiency. Buildings can be upgraded to improve their performance.

Conclusion

Force 21 is a deep and engaging real-time strategy game that offers a lot of replay value. It is a must-play for fans of the genre.

Review Score

7.5/10

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Tom Clancy’s ruthless.com (1998)

by Christopher
written by Christopher 4 minutes read

Summary

Tom Clancy’s ruthless.com (1998): A Cutthroat Business Sim

In the ruthless world of business, there are no rules. Only winners and losers.

Tom Clancy’s ruthless.com is a simultaneous turn-based strategy game that puts you in the shoes of a ruthless corporate raider. Your goal is to build a software empire by any means necessary. You can use thugs, hackers, or lawyers to get what you want. You don’t need ethics, just greed, ego, and a few wicked instincts.

The game was released in 1998 and was developed by Red Storm Entertainment. It was the first game in the Tom Clancy’s ruthless.com series. The game was a critical and commercial success, selling over 1 million copies worldwide.

Gameplay

ruthless.com is played on a map of the United States. Each player starts with a single city and a small amount of money. Players take turns building software products, hiring employees, and attacking their opponents.

The game’s combat system is simple but effective. Each unit has a strength and a defense rating. The attacker’s strength is compared to the defender’s defense, and the unit with the higher rating wins the battle.

In addition to combat, players can also use espionage to steal technology from their opponents or sabotage their operations. Espionage is a risky but rewarding strategy, as it can give you a significant advantage over your opponents.

Characters

ruthless.com features a cast of colorful characters, each with their own unique abilities. Some of the most notable characters include:

  • Johnathon “Johnny” Ingram: A ruthless corporate raider who is willing to do whatever it takes to win.
  • Madison “Mad Dog” O’Malley: A former Marine who is now a hired gun for Ingram.
  • Dr. Anya Petrova: A brilliant scientist who is Ingram’s right-hand woman.
  • Yuri “The Spider” Dolgov: A Russian hacker who is Ingram’s deadliest enemy.

Reception

ruthless.com was a critical and commercial success. The game was praised for its innovative gameplay, its dark and gritty atmosphere, and its cast of memorable characters. The game was also a commercial success, selling over 1 million copies worldwide.

Legacy

ruthless.com is a classic turn-based strategy game that is still enjoyed by many today. The game’s unique blend of corporate intrigue and espionage makes it a truly unique and memorable experience.

Tips for Playing ruthless.com

Here are a few tips for playing ruthless.com:

  • Start by building a strong economy. This will give you the resources you need to build software products and hire employees.
  • Don’t be afraid to use espionage. Espionage can give you a significant advantage over your opponents.
  • Be careful when attacking your opponents. If you attack too often, you will make yourself a target.
  • Don’t give up. ruthless.com is a challenging game, but it is also a very rewarding one. If you stick with it, you will eventually be victorious.

Conclusion

Tom Clancy’s ruthless.com is a classic turn-based strategy game that is still enjoyed by many today. The game’s unique blend of corporate intrigue and espionage makes it a truly unique and memorable experience. If you are a fan of turn-based strategy games, then you owe it to yourself to check out ruthless.com.

Review Score

8/10

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Tom Clancy’s Rainbow Six Mission Pack: Eagle Watch (1999)

by Christopher
written by Christopher 5 minutes read

Summary

Tom Clancy’s Rainbow Six Mission Pack: Eagle Watch is an expansion pack for the tactical shooter game Tom Clancy’s Rainbow Six. It was developed by Red Storm Entertainment and published by Ubisoft in 1999. The expansion pack includes five new missions, four new operatives, three new weapons, and three new multiplayer modes.

Gameplay

The gameplay in Eagle Watch is similar to that of the original Rainbow Six. Players control a team of Rainbow operatives and must complete a variety of missions, such as hostage rescue, bomb defusal, and counter-terrorism. The game features a realistic and challenging tactical gameplay experience, and players must carefully plan their actions in order to succeed.

The five new missions in Eagle Watch are:

  • Operation: Eagle Watch: Rainbow is tasked with rescuing the President of the United States, who has been kidnapped by terrorists.
  • Operation: Black Dawn: Rainbow must stop a group of terrorists from detonating a nuclear bomb in New York City.
  • Operation: Urban Warfare: Rainbow is deployed to a war-torn city to rescue civilians and eliminate enemy forces.
  • Operation: Jungle Storm: Rainbow is sent to a remote jungle to investigate a downed satellite.
  • Operation: Arctic Fox: Rainbow must rescue a group of scientists who have been kidnapped by terrorists in the Arctic.

The four new operatives in Eagle Watch are:

  • Marius “Mute” Müller: A German GSG-9 operative who is an expert in electronic warfare.
  • Gilles “Twitch” Fournier: A French GIGN operative who is a skilled sniper.
  • Dieter “IQ” Weber: A German GSG-9 operative who is a technical expert.
  • Elena “Mira” Morales: A Spanish GEO operative who is a skilled demolitions expert.

The three new weapons in Eagle Watch are:

  • Heckler & Koch MP5SD6: A silenced submachine gun.
  • Accuracy International Arctic Warfare Magnum: A sniper rifle.
  • Franchi SPAS-15: A shotgun.

The three new multiplayer modes in Eagle Watch are:

  • Assassination: Two teams of players compete to assassinate the other team’s leader.
  • Terrorist Hunt: One team of players plays as Rainbow operatives, while the other team plays as terrorists. The Rainbow operatives must complete the mission objectives, while the terrorists must stop them.
  • Save Your Base: Two teams of players compete to destroy the other team’s base.

Reception

Eagle Watch received positive reviews from critics. IGN praised the game’s new missions, operatives, and weapons, and said that it was “a must-have for fans of the original Rainbow Six.” GameSpot also praised the game’s new content, and said that it was “a solid expansion pack that adds a lot of value to the original game.”

Legacy

Eagle Watch is considered to be one of the best expansion packs ever released for a video game. It added a significant amount of new content to the original Rainbow Six, and helped to keep the game fresh and exciting. The game’s new missions, operatives, and weapons were all well-received by critics and players alike, and the game’s new multiplayer modes helped to extend the game’s lifespan.

Eagle Watch is still played by many fans of the Rainbow Six series today. It is a challenging and rewarding tactical shooter that offers a lot of replay value. If you are a fan of the Rainbow Six series, then you should definitely check out Eagle Watch.

Additional Information

  • Eagle Watch was the first Rainbow Six expansion pack to be developed by Red Storm Entertainment.
  • The game was originally released for the PC, but was later ported to the PlayStation and Dreamcast.
  • Eagle Watch was a commercial success, selling over 1 million copies worldwide.
  • The game was nominated for several awards, including the Game of the Year award from IGN.

Review Score

9/10

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Dominant Species (1998)

by Nish
written by Nish 5 minutes read

Summary

Dominant Species (1998): A Real-Time Strategy Classic

Introduction

Released in 1998, Dominant Species is a real-time strategy (RTS) game that stands out for its innovative gameplay, immersive world, and challenging AI. Developed by Cyberlore Studios and published by Sierra On-Line, Dominant Species takes players to a bizarre and alien world where they control one of several powerful alien hives in a constant and deadly conflict for the possession of Anima, the precious substance that sustains them. However, unwelcome humans have arrived on their planet and threaten to upset the balance of conflict between hives that has raged for countless millennia.

Gameplay

Dominant Species is played from a top-down perspective, and players control their hive’s units by selecting them and issuing commands. The game features a unique blend of real-time strategy and turn-based elements. Players issue orders to their units in real time, but the orders are not executed until the end of the turn. This system allows players to plan their moves carefully and execute them strategically.

The game’s resources are Anima and DNA. Anima is used to build structures and units, while DNA is used to research new technologies. Players must carefully manage their resources in order to succeed.

Dominant Species features a variety of different unit types, each with its own strengths and weaknesses. Players must learn to use the different unit types effectively in order to defeat their opponents.

The game’s AI is challenging, and players will need to use all of their strategic skills to defeat the computer opponents. The AI is able to adapt its tactics to the player’s strategies, making each game a unique and challenging experience.

Setting

Dominant Species is set on a strange and alien world. The planet is home to a variety of different alien species, each with its own unique abilities and technologies. The game’s world is beautifully rendered in 3D, and players will enjoy exploring the different environments and landscapes.

The game’s story is told through a series of cutscenes. The cutscenes are well-written and feature excellent voice acting. The story is engaging and helps to immerse players in the game’s world.

Reception

Dominant Species was a critical and commercial success. The game was praised for its innovative gameplay, immersive world, and challenging AI. Dominant Species was also nominated for several awards, including the Game of the Year award from the Academy of Interactive Arts & Sciences.

Legacy

Dominant Species is considered to be one of the greatest RTS games ever made. The game’s innovative gameplay and immersive world have influenced many subsequent RTS games. Dominant Species is still played by a dedicated community of fans today.

Conclusion

Dominant Species is a classic RTS game that offers a unique and challenging experience. The game’s innovative gameplay, immersive world, and challenging AI make it a must-play for fans of the genre.

Review Score

7.5/10

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Tom Clancy’s Politika (1997)

by Christopher
written by Christopher 6 minutes read

Summary

Tom Clancy’s Politika (1997): A Deep Dive into Political Intrigue and Strategic Gameplay

In the tumultuous aftermath of President Boris Yeltsin’s sudden death, Tom Clancy’s Politika (1997) thrusts players into the heart of a crumbling Russian empire. This gripping strategy game of political intrigue challenges players to navigate a treacherous landscape of power struggles, shifting alliances, and constant uprisings.

A Nation in Turmoil

Set in a modern-day Russia on the brink of chaos, Politika presents a meticulously crafted world that immerses players in the complexities of post-Soviet politics. With Yeltsin’s demise leaving a gaping power vacuum, eight major factions emerge from the shadows, each vying for control of the nation’s destiny.

From the shadowy depths of the KGB to the influential Russian Orthodox Church and the ruthless grip of the Mafia, these factions represent a diverse spectrum of ideologies and interests. Players must carefully consider their allegiances, as each faction offers unique advantages and challenges.

The Stakes of Power

As the leader of one of these factions, players embark on a high-stakes campaign to secure their dominance over Russia. The ultimate goal is to emerge as the new leader of the nation, but the path to power is fraught with obstacles and treachery.

Players must balance their resources, forge alliances, and outmaneuver their opponents in a cutthroat game of political strategy. Every decision carries weight, as the delicate balance of power can shift with a single misstep.

Gameplay Mechanics

Politika’s gameplay is a masterclass in strategic depth and complexity. Players must carefully manage their resources, including money, influence, and military strength, to maintain their faction’s stability and expand their sphere of influence.

The game’s map of Russia is divided into regions, each with its own unique characteristics and challenges. Players must conquer and control these regions to gain access to valuable resources and expand their power base.

Diplomacy plays a crucial role in Politika, as players can form alliances with other factions to strengthen their position or undermine their rivals. However, alliances are fluid, and allegiances can change with the shifting tides of power.

Unpredictable Events and Shifting Alliances

One of the defining features of Politika is its unpredictability. The game constantly throws unexpected events at players, such as uprisings, economic crises, and international incidents. These events can disrupt carefully laid plans and force players to adapt their strategies on the fly.

Alliances, too, are constantly in flux. Players must carefully consider the motivations and objectives of their allies, as even the most trusted partnerships can crumble in the face of adversity.

A Test of Political Acumen

Tom Clancy’s Politika (1997) is not just a game of strategy; it is a test of political acumen. Players must possess a keen understanding of power dynamics, diplomacy, and the complexities of international relations to succeed.

The game challenges players to think strategically, anticipate their opponents’ moves, and adapt to the ever-changing political landscape. It is a game that rewards patience, cunning, and a deep understanding of the art of political maneuvering.

Legacy and Impact

Tom Clancy’s Politika (1997) was a critical and commercial success upon its release. It was praised for its innovative gameplay, immersive world-building, and thought-provoking exploration of political intrigue.

The game’s legacy extends beyond its initial release. It has been cited as an inspiration for later strategy games, and its unique blend of political and military strategy continues to captivate players to this day.

Conclusion

Tom Clancy’s Politika (1997) remains a timeless masterpiece of strategy gaming. Its intricate gameplay, unpredictable events, and deep exploration of political intrigue create a captivating and challenging experience that will keep players engaged for hours on end.

Whether you’re a seasoned strategy veteran or a newcomer to the genre, Politika is a game that will test your wits and immerse you in a world of high-stakes political maneuvering. So gather your allies, choose your faction wisely, and prepare to embark on an unforgettable journey to the corridors of power in modern-day Russia.

Review Score

8.5/10

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Rainbow Six: Covert Ops Essentials (2000)

by Nish
written by Nish 6 minutes read

Summary

Rainbow Six: Covert Ops Essentials (2000): A Comprehensive Tactical Espionage Guide

In the realm of tactical shooters, few games have left a mark as enduring as Rainbow Six: Covert Ops Essentials. Released in 2000, this standalone expansion to the acclaimed Rainbow Six series redefined the genre with its innovative gameplay, immersive missions, and unparalleled realism.

Nine New Missions, Unprecedented Gameplay

Covert Ops Essentials takes players on a thrilling journey across nine all-new levels, each meticulously crafted to offer a unique and challenging experience. From infiltrating heavily guarded enemy compounds to rescuing hostages in high-stakes situations, the missions test players’ tactical acumen and strategic decision-making skills to the limit.

One of the standout features of Covert Ops Essentials is its standalone functionality. Unlike previous Rainbow Six games, this expansion can be enjoyed independently, without requiring players to own the original Rainbow Six or Rogue Spear. This accessibility opened the door for a wider audience to experience the game’s exceptional gameplay.

Customizable Missions: Tailoring the Experience

Rainbow Six: Covert Ops Essentials empowers players with an unprecedented level of customization. The custom mission feature allows them to tailor their gameplay experience by selecting the game type, map, and difficulty level. This flexibility caters to a wide range of preferences, from those seeking a casual challenge to hardcore tactical enthusiasts.

Combat Training: Honing Your Skills

Beyond its thrilling missions, Covert Ops Essentials also serves as a comprehensive training ground for aspiring Rainbow Six operatives. The game features a dedicated training mode where players can hone their skills in various combat subjects, including hostage negotiation, kit selection, and intel photo analysis. By completing these training exercises, players gain certificates that attest to their proficiency in these critical areas.

The training mode in Covert Ops Essentials is not merely a collection of drills; it’s an integral part of the gameplay experience. By mastering the techniques taught in training, players gain a significant advantage in the game’s missions, allowing them to approach each challenge with greater confidence and эффективность.

Weapon and Equipment Mastery: Choosing the Right Tools

Rainbow Six: Covert Ops Essentials places great emphasis on realism and authenticity. The game features a vast arsenal of weapons and equipment, each with its unique characteristics and applications. Players must carefully consider the best choices for each mission, taking into account factors such as weapon accuracy, range, and rate of fire.

The game’s focus on weapon and equipment mastery extends beyond mere statistics. Covert Ops Essentials provides detailed information on the pros and cons of each item, helping players make informed decisions based on the specific requirements of each mission. This level of detail adds a layer of depth and strategy to the gameplay, rewarding players who take the time to understand the nuances of their arsenal.

Special Bonus Section: Behind the Scenes

As a special bonus, Rainbow Six: Covert Ops Essentials includes a behind-the-scenes section that offers a fascinating glimpse into the making of the game and its predecessor, Rogue Spear. This section features interviews with the development team, concept art, and other exclusive content that sheds light on the creative process behind these groundbreaking tactical shooters.

Critical Acclaim and Enduring Legacy

Upon its release, Rainbow Six: Covert Ops Essentials received widespread critical acclaim. Reviewers praised the game’s innovative gameplay, immersive missions, and unparalleled realism. It quickly became a top seller and solidified the Rainbow Six series as a benchmark in the tactical shooter genre.

The legacy of Rainbow Six: Covert Ops Essentials continues to this day. The game’s influence can be seen in countless subsequent tactical shooters, which have adopted and expanded upon its core gameplay mechanics. It remains a beloved title among fans of the genre and a testament to the enduring power of exceptional game design.

Conclusion

Rainbow Six: Covert Ops Essentials (2000) is a masterclass in tactical gameplay, offering players an unparalleled level of customization, realism, and immersive missions. Its innovative features, coupled with its standalone functionality and comprehensive training mode, make it an essential title for fans of the genre. Whether you’re a seasoned Rainbow Six veteran or a newcomer to tactical shooters, Covert Ops Essentials is a must-play experience that will challenge your skills and immerse you in the world of covert operations.

Review Score

8.5/10

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Bang! Gunship Elite (2000)

by Christopher
written by Christopher 6 minutes read

Summary

Bang! Gunship Elite (2000): A Local Multiplayer Classic

Released in 2000, Bang! Gunship Elite is a local multiplayer game for 2-4 players that is sure to get your heart racing. Only the fastest guns and the fastest on their feet can win!

The game is set in a Wild West-themed world, and players take on the role of cowboys or Indians. Each player has a unique set of weapons and abilities, and the goal of the game is to be the last player standing.

Bang! Gunship Elite is played on a 3D map, and players can move around the map freely. The map is filled with a variety of objects, such as buildings, trees, and rocks, which can be used for cover.

Players can attack each other with a variety of weapons, including pistols, shotguns, rifles, and explosives. Each weapon has its own unique stats, such as damage, range, and accuracy.

In addition to weapons, players can also use a variety of items, such as health packs, armor, and speed boosts. Items can be found scattered around the map, or they can be purchased from the in-game store.

Bang! Gunship Elite is a fast-paced and action-packed game that is perfect for a group of friends or family members. The game is easy to learn, but difficult to master, and it offers a lot of replayability.

Gameplay

Bang! Gunship Elite is a local multiplayer game for 2-4 players. The game is played on a 3D map, and players can move around the map freely. The map is filled with a variety of objects, such as buildings, trees, and rocks, which can be used for cover.

Players can attack each other with a variety of weapons, including pistols, shotguns, rifles, and explosives. Each weapon has its own unique stats, such as damage, range, and accuracy.

In addition to weapons, players can also use a variety of items, such as health packs, armor, and speed boosts. Items can be found scattered around the map, or they can be purchased from the in-game store.

The goal of the game is to be the last player standing. Players can win by killing all of the other players, or by completing the objective of the map.

Characters

Bang! Gunship Elite features a cast of unique and memorable characters. Each character has their own unique set of weapons and abilities, and they all play differently.

Some of the most popular characters in the game include:

  • Billy the Kid: A fast and agile gunslinger with a knack for getting into trouble.
  • Jesse James: A ruthless outlaw with a reputation for violence.
  • Wyatt Earp: A legendary lawman with a strong sense of justice.
  • Geronimo: A skilled Apache warrior with a deep connection to the land.

Maps

Bang! Gunship Elite features a variety of maps, each with its own unique layout and objectives. Some of the most popular maps in the game include:

  • Boot Hill: A classic Western town with plenty of places to hide and ambush your opponents.
  • Deadwood Gulch: A narrow and treacherous canyon with limited cover.
  • The Alamo: A large and open map with plenty of space to maneuver.
  • The Great Plains: A vast and unforgiving landscape with few places to hide.

Weapons

Bang! Gunship Elite features a wide variety of weapons, each with its own unique stats and abilities. Some of the most popular weapons in the game include:

  • Pistols: Fast-firing and accurate, but with limited range and damage.
  • Shotguns: Powerful and deadly at close range, but with limited accuracy and range.
  • Rifles: Accurate and powerful at long range, but with a slow rate of fire.
  • Explosives: Devastatingly powerful, but with a limited range and a slow rate of fire.

Items

Bang! Gunship Elite features a variety of items that can be used to give players an advantage in battle. Some of the most popular items in the game include:

  • Health packs: Restore a player’s health.
  • Armor: Protects a player from damage.
  • Speed boosts: Increase a player’s speed.
  • Invisibility: Makes a player invisible to other players.

Conclusion

Bang! Gunship Elite is a classic local multiplayer game that is still enjoyed by many today. The game is fast-paced, action-packed, and easy to learn but difficult to master. It is the perfect game for a group of friends or family members who are looking for a fun and competitive game to play.

Review Score

7.5/10

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