Red Alert: A Classic RTS Revival

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Released in 1996 by Virgin Interactive, Command & Conquer: Red Alert marked a significant departure from its predecessor, offering an alternate take on the classic real-time strategy (RTS) genre. As part of the popular Command & Conquer franchise, this critically acclaimed game set players at odds with their World War II-era counterparts in a battle for dominance.

Set in an alternate universe where World War I ended in 1917 and subsequently led to another global conflict just over two decades later, Red Alert introduced several innovative features that would become hallmarks of the RTS genre. Among these was its unique 'Harvester' unit, capable of capturing resources from enemy bases rather than simply gathering them like traditional economy units.

The game's campaign mode presented players with a gripping narrative driven by an all-star cast including voice talents such as Michael Ironside (General Secretary of the Soviet Union) and Giancarlo DiCerafano (U.S. Major-General). With six distinct campaigns spread across two sides - the Allies fighting against the nefarious forces of the Soviets, who seek to conquer Western Europe through a series of daring invasions.

The gameplay itself was fast-paced and action-packed, with players tasked with gathering resources, building structures, training units and then deploying them onto an expansive map in order to achieve victory. This could be achieved either by completely eliminating all enemy forces or capturing key strategic points such as bases that produced vital resource streams.

Red Alert's success can largely be attributed to its engaging multiplayer mode which allowed up-to eight players (four versus four) to engage in intense battles across a variety of map settings ranging from urban landscapes like Paris and Berlin, through snow-covered mountain ranges, down to deserts dotted with abandoned tanks. Each side had access to unique units such as the Soviet's fearsome 'Kirov' tank destroyer or America's iconic B-17 bomber.

The game also featured an extensive arsenal of powerful upgrades that could be purchased using hard earned money - these included everything from enhanced damage dealing abilities for individual unit types up through full-scale nuclear strikes capable of leveling entire cities in one swift motion!

Red Alert 2: A Legacy Continues

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In conclusion, Command & Conquer: Red Alert remains an essential addition to any serious RTS fan's library. Its blend of fast-paced action, deep strategy and engaging multiplayer gameplay ensures that this classic will continue to entertain generations of players for years to come.

For those looking for more C&C goodness after completing the original campaign there are several expansion packs available including 'The Aftermath' which adds new maps and a single player campaign as well as two expansion pack collections - 'Red Alert: Counterstrike', 'Yuri's Revenge'.

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