Command & Conquer

Set in a sci-fi future, Command & Conquer pits the Global Defense Initiative against the Brotherhood of Nod in a global war over the dangerous extraterrestrial resource Tiberium. As a foundational real-time strategy game, players build bases, harvest Tiberium for resources, and command unique armies across diverse global locations to achieve victory.

Command & Conquer: Review

Introduction

Command & Conquer (1995), developed by Westwood Studios, is a landmark title that not only defined the real-time strategy (RTS) genre but also set a new standard for multimedia storytelling in video games. With its dual campaigns, live-action cutscenes, and intense, fast-paced gameplay, it captured the imagination of gamers worldwide and laid the foundation for one of the most influential franchises in gaming history. This review will delve into the game’s development history, narrative depth, gameplay mechanics, world-building, critical reception, and lasting legacy, culminating in a definitive verdict on its place in video game history.

Development History & Context

Westwood Studios, founded by Brett Sperry and Louis Castle, had already made a name for itself with the critically acclaimed Dune II: The Building of a Dynasty (1992), which pioneered many of the core mechanics of the RTS genre. Building on the success of Dune II, the studio sought to create a game that would refine and expand upon those mechanics while introducing innovative features like live-action cutscenes and a more accessible interface.

The development of Command & Conquer was driven by a desire to create a game that was both strategically deep and visually engaging. The team at Westwood Studios leveraged the technological advancements of the mid-1990s, such as CD-ROM storage and improved graphics capabilities, to deliver a game that was ahead of its time. The use of live-action cutscenes was a bold move, adding a layer of cinematic storytelling that was rare in games of the era.

The gaming landscape in 1995 was dominated by turn-based strategy games and slower-paced real-time simulations. Command & Conquer stood out by offering a fast-paced, action-packed experience that required quick decision-making and multitasking. The game’s release coincided with the rise of the CD-ROM as a standard medium for PC games, allowing for high-quality audio and video that enhanced the overall experience.

Narrative & Thematic Deep Dive

Command & Conquer is set in a near-future world where the discovery of an alien substance called Tiberium has sparked a global conflict. The game features two factions: the Global Defense Initiative (GDI), a UN-backed military force, and the Brotherhood of Nod, a mysterious and fanatical cult led by the enigmatic Kane. The narrative is presented through live-action cutscenes that serve as mission briefings and debriefings, adding a layer of immersion and cinematic quality that was groundbreaking for the time.

The plot revolves around the struggle for control of Tiberium, a resource that is both highly valuable and extremely dangerous. The GDI seeks to contain and study Tiberium, while the Brotherhood of Nod aims to harness its power to achieve global domination. The game’s themes of power, control, and the ethical implications of technological advancement are explored through the actions and motivations of its characters.

Kane, the leader of the Brotherhood of Nod, is a charismatic and enigmatic figure who serves as the primary antagonist. His speeches and actions are designed to evoke a sense of mystique and menace, making him one of the most memorable villains in gaming history. The live-action cutscenes, featuring actor Joseph Kucan as Kane, add a level of depth and realism that was unprecedented in games of the era.

The game’s missions are designed to advance the narrative, with each campaign offering a different perspective on the conflict. The GDI campaign focuses on the military and strategic aspects of the war, while the Nod campaign delves into the ideological and philosophical motivations behind the Brotherhood’s actions. This dual narrative structure allows players to experience the conflict from multiple angles, adding depth and complexity to the story.

Gameplay Mechanics & Systems

Command & Conquer introduces a variety of gameplay mechanics that have become staples of the RTS genre. Players must gather resources, build bases, and train units to engage in combat with the opposing faction. The game features a tech tree that allows players to unlock advanced units and structures as they progress through the campaign.

One of the game’s most innovative features is the use of Tiberium as the primary resource. Players must deploy harvesters to collect Tiberium from the battlefield and transport it to refineries, where it is converted into credits. This resource-gathering mechanic adds a layer of strategy and complexity to the gameplay, as players must balance the need to expand their base with the need to defend their harvesters from enemy attacks.

The game’s combat system is fast-paced and intense, with units engaging in real-time battles that require quick reflexes and strategic thinking. Each faction has unique units and structures that offer different strategic options. The GDI relies on heavy armor and advanced technology, while the Brotherhood of Nod emphasizes speed, stealth, and guerrilla tactics. This asymmetry in gameplay encourages players to experiment with different strategies and adapt to the strengths and weaknesses of their chosen faction.

The user interface is designed to be intuitive and accessible, with a sidebar that provides quick access to unit and structure menus. The game also features a fog of war system that adds a layer of tension and uncertainty to the gameplay, as players must explore the battlefield to uncover enemy positions and resources.

World-Building, Art & Sound

Command & Conquer is set in a near-future world that blends real-world locations with futuristic technology. The game’s art direction is characterized by a mix of realistic and stylized elements, with detailed unit models and environments that create a sense of immersion. The use of live-action cutscenes adds a layer of realism and cinematic quality that enhances the game’s atmosphere.

The soundtrack, composed by Frank Klepacki, is a blend of orchestral and electronic music that complements the game’s futuristic setting. The sound design is equally impressive, with realistic sound effects that enhance the immersion and intensity of the combat.

The game’s environments are diverse and visually striking, ranging from urban battlefields to desert landscapes. The use of varying terrain and environmental hazards adds a layer of strategic depth to the gameplay, as players must navigate the battlefield and adapt to the challenges posed by the environment.

Reception & Legacy

Command & Conquer was met with critical acclaim upon its release, with reviewers praising its innovative gameplay, engaging narrative, and high production values. The game’s live-action cutscenes were particularly noteworthy, as they set a new standard for storytelling in video games. The game’s commercial success was equally impressive, with over 10 million copies sold worldwide.

The game’s legacy is evident in its influence on subsequent RTS titles, many of which borrowed elements from Command & Conquer‘s gameplay and design. The franchise itself has spawned numerous sequels and spin-offs, each building on the foundation established by the original game. The game’s impact on the RTS genre is undeniable, and it remains a benchmark for real-time strategy games to this day.

Conclusion

Command & Conquer is a landmark title that not only defined the RTS genre but also set a new standard for multimedia storytelling in video games. Its innovative gameplay, engaging narrative, and high production values have earned it a place among the most influential and beloved games in history. The game’s legacy is evident in its enduring popularity and the numerous titles that have been inspired by its design. As a testament to its lasting impact, Command & Conquer remains a must-play for fans of strategy games and a classic that continues to inspire new generations of gamers.