Command & Conquer

Description

Command & Conquer for the SEGA Saturn, originally developed by Westwood Studios and released in 1996, is one of the masterpieces of the 1990s that seemed to open the gateway to the world of real-time strategy (RTS) on consoles. It offers an amazing experience that proves that even console platforms can be home to complex and strategically rich games.

The game's story is set in the near future, where players find themselves in the middle of a conflict between the Global Defense Initiative (GDI) and the mysterious, fanatical Brotherhood of Nod organization led by the charismatic Kane. It's clear from the outset that the story here is strongly motivated and draws the player in with its cinematic narrative supported by high quality FMV (Full Motion Video) sequences. This gives the game a dynamic and thrilling edge that keeps players interested from the first to the last mission.

One of the key aspects that makes Command & Conquer on the SEGA Saturn so special is the controls. Flipping a title from PC to console is a task that requires careful thought, and Westwood Studios has risen to the challenge to perfection. Despite the limitations of the SEGA Saturn controller, the game is still fully playable and surprisingly intuitive. Using the D-pad to move the cursor and select units or buildings is slower than the mouse, but it works smoothly enough not to detract from the experience.

Graphically, Command & Conquer on the SEGA Saturn is robust, and while it doesn't deliver any revolutionary visual effects, the 2D sprite units and detailed environments are a faithful carryover from the original version. The soundtrack is another of the game's strengths, with energetic and dramatic melodies perfectly in sync with the pace of the game. The voice track, effects and music combine to create an atmosphere that draws you deep into the world of C&C.

Strategic depth is a given in Command & Conquer. Players must carefully plan their moves, properly utilize resources, and thoughtfully build and manage their bases. The variety of units and buildings provides a wide range of tactical options, allowing for many different approaches to each mission. The rich single-player campaign is a challenge that will delight both new players and veterans of the genre.

In conclusion, Command & Conquer on the SEGA Saturn is an excellent adaptation of the classic PC game. It delivers everything fans could ask for, from a strong story and strategic depth to high-quality audiovisual design. For all enthusiasts of the RTS genre and video game history, this title is an essential piece worth exploring.