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If you are a fan of Real-Time Strategy games, and a Star Wars buff, then Star Wars: Empire at War is the game for you. Created by LucasArts and Petroglyph, Star Wars: Empire at War (further abbreviated as SW:EAW) allows players to fight on the ground and in the space above over forty planets in the Star Wars universe. While the main focus is on tactical control, players also get a grand overview of the galaxy from which you can control and purchase new units and buildings. Overall, SW:EAW is the best RTS of its type.
The game focuses on conflicts between the Empire and Rebel forces just before the fourth movie. Each side has its own units, although both have the same types generally. Both sides also have a campaign, which gives the player missions complete, although you can control what units to purchase and where to attack. SW:EAW's other main element is Galactic Conquest, an open campaign where the player selects which scenario (which sets the number of planets), starting money (called credits), and technology level. Tech levels are also important, unlocking new units and building types. Finally, SW:EAW is rounded off by an instant action mode, also available on multiplayer.
The greatest action and fun to be had is in the space battles. Everything a Star Wars fan could hope for and more can be found in these epic battles. Every ship present in the movies is present, from small fighters like Tie's and X-Wings to capital ships, like Imperial Star Destroyers and Mon Calamari Cruisers, the Rebellion equivalent. At least one side usually has a space station, from which upgrades and units and be purchased (units only in Instant Action), and the Empire can construct the Death Star in Galactic Conquests. Larger ships and stations have hardpoints which can be specifically attacked, so players can take down the most important systems first. Visuals and sound are magnificent and sound "realistic" to Star Wars.
Ground battles also involve many of the same qualities, but seem to be much more constrained. There is still a great variety of units, but the maps seem too small. While space battles allow lots of movement, ground battles can be slow as units traverse the battleground. The attacker must capture reinforcement points to bring in more units, and points around the battlefield can be captured and built into different turrets or support buildings. The AI won't win any awards either, mainly just coming straight at you, but the visuals are still great.
An expansion pack, Forces of Corruption, has been released since SW:EAW's launch, which adds a new faction with all new units and buildings and more planets. I would recommend picking up the dual pack of both games, since the expansion is great. I have also barely touched on the galactic overview part of the campaigns. This game is a great addition to the RTS genre and brings Star Wars into it in a good way. With a great variety and almost unlimited replayability, Star Wars and RTS fans alike should pick up this fantastic title.
Scott is a student and avid strategy gamer. Please support him by visiting his blog http://greatstrategygames.blogspot.com/ for more info, reviews, and screenshots.
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