This is an expansion for the real-time strategy game Star Wars: Empire at War, released for PC in 2006. It requires the base game to play and introduces a new faction, the Zann Consortium, led by Tyber Zann. The expansion focuses on a criminal underworld approach to galactic conquest, diverging from the military-focused gameplay of the original. It adds new units, technologies, and a narrative that explores illicit activities and underhanded tactics within the Star Wars universe. The scope is substantial, offering a full campaign experience that complements the original game.

Expanding the Galactic Conflict

As an expansion, this title requires the base game, Star Wars: Empire at War, to play. It significantly broadens the strategic landscape by introducing a third playable faction, the Zann Consortium, led by the ambitious Tyber Zann. This addition injects a substantial amount of new content, including unique units, technologies, and a narrative that delves into the shadowy corners of the Star Wars universe.

The scope of this expansion is considerable, offering a full campaign experience that runs parallel to the events of the original game. It provides a comparable level of depth and strategic complexity, focusing on a different approach to achieving galactic dominance.

New Tactics for a Corrupt Empire

What makes this expansion unique is its introduction of new gameplay mechanics centered around corruption and underworld operations. Players commanding the Zann Consortium can engage in activities such as:

Piracy: Disrupting enemy supply lines and raiding cargo.
Kidnapping: Capturing key enemy units or characters for ransom or leverage.
Racketeering and Bribery: Subtly influencing neutral factions or undermining enemy operations through less direct means.

These mechanics offer a distinct strategic layer, allowing players to weaken opponents without necessarily engaging in direct, large-scale warfare. The focus shifts from outright military victory to a more insidious form of control, where economic disruption and political manipulation play a crucial role.

Story and Setting

The narrative follows Tyber Zann's rise to power as he seeks to establish himself as the most notorious criminal leader in the galaxy. The setting and atmosphere are darker and more morally ambiguous, reflecting the nature of the Zann Consortium's operations. Players will navigate a galaxy where alliances are fluid and loyalty can be bought, adding a compelling new dimension to the familiar Star Wars conflict.

Core Gameplay and Integration

The expansion seamlessly integrates with the base game's core real-time strategy mechanics. Players will still manage fleets, command ground forces, and engage in planetary conquest. However, the Zann Consortium's unique units and abilities, coupled with the new corruption mechanics, necessitate different strategic approaches. The game retains its blend of space and land-based combat, offering a comprehensive strategic experience.

Additional Content

As of the current date, there are no additional DLCs, expansions, remakes, or remasters available for this title.

What is the primary focus of this expansion?

The primary focus of this expansion is the introduction of the Zann Consortium, a criminal organization, and its unique gameplay mechanics that emphasize corruption, piracy, and underworld tactics as a means of galactic domination, offering a distinct alternative to the military-focused gameplay of the base game.

Does this expansion require the original game?

Yes, this expansion is designed to be played with the original Star Wars: Empire at War game and cannot be played as a standalone title.