BlackVapor's Full Review: Star Trek: Armada for Windows
What was the Star Trek universe lacking? A good computer game. I don't mean to be insensitive, but before the release of Star Trek: Armada, I have been somewhat dissapointed in Star Trek computer games.However, now, Activision has changed it all with the release of Star Trek: Armada.
First of all, graphics are great. Even though this RTS is in 2D interface, all the background and ship rendering is 3D. Another thing I enjoyed was the animation in the different starships. When they turn around, they actually roll to the side in order to make the turn. A small thing, you would say, but attention to detail makes a good game differ from an excellent one.
Secondly, Armada differs greatly from all other RTS games I've played (the classics: Warcraft, Warcraft II and Starcraft). Oppositely to Blizzard's best-sellers, numbers are not important in Armada. Indeed, the upgrades available can make any small task force deadly. This way, construction is not as important as the games we have known before. Equally, one nice thing Activision did was to make the interface almost exactly the same as the RTS games we know, so we do not have to learn how to play the game for too long.
Another interesting feature is the fact that the cutscenes between missions are done directly with the game interface, sometimes reproducing the base you have just built. This adds a terrific dimension and feel to the game. With this type of video, you feel somewhat more part of the storyline.
Multiplayer games are fun, but one disappointing thing about them is the number of players available over the Internet (limit of 4, computer players included). Another good thing Activison could have added is the possibility of breaking alliances. Unfortunately, once you have decided to be allies in the beginning of the game, you have to remain allies throughout the game. No backstabbing possible in multiplayer games, what a shame. :)
In the multiplayer mode, the cinematic window is quite useful, since you can see what your allies are doing on their side of the map, without having to look for them every five seconds. The cinematic window does all the work for you.
The bugs? Sure, there are some, but your hardware depends on it's frequency. There has been TNT2 issues with the game and that is the most common problem. However, the patch is supposed to prevent the TNT2 related bugs. Since I use a Matrox graphics card, I have experienced very few bugs. Let's hope our friends with TNT2's will have less problems with the game with the patch! :)
Overall, this game is the best RTS game I have played. I would suggest it to anyone, Trekkie or not.
Lead 4 distinct races: the Federation, Klingon, Romulan, and Borg Campaigns consist of a variety of tactical, combat, and protective missions Build ov...More at Amazon Marketplace
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