This real-time strategy game, released in 2000 for PC, presents an alternate history where the absence of World War II has led to a new global conflict. The narrative begins with Albert Einstein's invention of a time machine to prevent World War II by eliminating Adolf Hitler. However, this action inadvertently empowers the Soviet Union under Joseph Stalin, setting the stage for a confrontation with the Allied forces. Players can choose to fight for either the freedom-loving Allies or the expansionist Soviet Union, each with distinct units, technologies, and strategic approaches.

The story unfolds across a compelling solo campaign, allowing players to experience the war from both sides. Beyond the single-player experience, the game features robust multiplayer modes, supporting up to nine nations across eight distinct gameplay variations. The arsenal available to players is diverse and imaginative, featuring units like Prism Tanks, Tesla Troopers, Terror Drones, Desolators, and even the mind-controlling Psychic Squid and Sonic Dolphins, contributing to a unique and often over-the-top strategic experience.

The Premise and Setting

The core of the game's narrative is built upon an intriguing "what if" scenario. By altering history to prevent World War II, the world finds itself facing a different, yet equally formidable, threat. The Soviet Union, unchecked by the historical conflict, now seeks to dominate Europe and beyond. This creates a distinct atmosphere of Cold War-esque tension, amplified by fantastical elements and a sense of grand, albeit often absurd, global stakes. The setting is characterized by a blend of plausible military technology and outlandish, science-fiction-inspired weaponry, contributing to its memorable and engaging world.

Core Gameplay Mechanics

At its heart, this is a real-time strategy game that emphasizes base building, resource management, and tactical combat. Players must gather resources, construct a base of operations, train various military units, and then deploy them to engage enemy forces. The gameplay loop involves expanding territory, defending against enemy assaults, and launching offensive campaigns to achieve victory conditions. Each faction possesses unique units and structures, requiring players to adapt their strategies based on their chosen side and the opponent's forces.

What Makes This Game Unique?

The game distinguishes itself through its distinctive blend of alternate history, over-the-top science fiction elements, and accessible real-time strategy gameplay. The introduction of unconventional units and abilities, such as psychic powers and sonic weaponry, sets it apart from more grounded military simulations. This creative freedom in unit design and factional identity contributes significantly to its enduring appeal and replayability. The ability to command a diverse and often bizarre array of military assets, from mind-controlling squids to Tesla-powered soldiers, offers a unique strategic sandbox.

Factional Asymmetry

A key element of the gameplay is the significant difference between the Allied and Soviet factions. Each side boasts unique units, buildings, and special abilities, forcing players to learn and exploit distinct strengths and weaknesses. This asymmetry ensures that playing as one faction feels fundamentally different from playing as the other, adding depth to both the single-player campaigns and multiplayer matches.

Arsenal of the Absurd

The game's arsenal is a major draw, featuring a memorable collection of units that push the boundaries of conventional military strategy. Players can deploy:

Prism Tanks, known for their powerful, focused energy beams.
Tesla Troopers, who wield devastating electrical attacks.
Terror Drones, agile robotic units capable of disabling enemy vehicles.
Desolators, infantry that can irradiate enemy units and terrain.
Psychic Mind Control Giant Squids and Sonic Dolphins, showcasing the game's more fantastical elements.

This imaginative approach to unit design provides a wide range of tactical options and memorable combat encounters.

Available Content

The base game includes a comprehensive solo campaign experience. Additionally, there is one expansion pack available, which further expands the game's content with new units, missions, and potentially new factions or gameplay mechanics. There are no downloadable content packs (DLCs) or remasters currently available for this title.

Basic Game Information

Game Type: Main Game
Release Date: October 25, 2000
Platforms: PC (Microsoft Windows)
Genres: Real Time Strategy (RTS), Strategy
Expansions: 1