Command & Conquer Red Alert™, Counterstrike™ and The Aftermath™
- March 7, 2024
- EA Los Angeles
"Command & Conquer Red Alert™, Counterstrike™ and The Aftermath™" is a series of real-time strategy games that offer intense military conflict between the Allies and Soviets. The first game, Red Alert, is known for pushing the boundaries of the RTS genre and becoming a classic. The expansion packs, Counterstrike and The Aftermath, introduce new missions, experimental technologies, and forbidden weapons, adding to the depth and challenge of the gameplay. Players must make cunning decisions to control the fate of the world.
Reviews
- The game is a nostalgic classic that still holds up, providing hours of fun and challenging gameplay.
- The iconic soundtrack and retro graphics contribute to its charm, making it a beloved title for many players.
- The game offers a unique blend of real-time strategy and alternate history, with engaging missions and a variety of units.
- The controls and interface feel outdated and clunky, making gameplay frustrating compared to modern RTS games.
- There are significant issues with pathfinding and AI behavior, leading to frustrating gameplay experiences.
- The game can suffer from crashes and bugs, particularly in certain missions, which detracts from the overall experience.
- story35 mentions
- 17 % positive mentions
- 74 % neutral mentions
- 9 % negative mentions
The story aspect of the game is characterized by a nostalgic blend of engaging missions and a humorous, albeit dated, narrative style that appeals to long-time fans. While the campaign offers a variety of missions that challenge strategic thinking, some players express frustration with certain mission designs that can lead to unavoidable failures. Overall, the storyline is seen as a charming throwback, enhanced by memorable cutscenes and a sense of accomplishment, despite some technical issues and mission difficulties.
“These titles have stood the test of time, proving that great gameplay and engaging storylines never age.”
“The counterstrike expansion brings fresh missions and a new layer of depth, enhancing the core gameplay.”
“+ The story doesn't take itself seriously, the FMV cutscenes are glorious cheese, and the campaigns are overall a treat to grind through.”
“The campaign story, while not good by a modern standpoint, is leagues ahead of C&C1.”
“With Nod, everything goes normally until you reach the mission to save the nuclear reactor. Straight away, you can't avoid automatically losing the game because you don't even have time to command anyone. The soldiers advance and there's an explosion, and your mission fails automatically. From then, you don't have the chance to continue the remaining missions because you only move on to the next mission by completing the previous one. Games like this are a fraud in my opinion, since no matter how good a player you are, this mission is impossible!”
“Some of the additional missions are bugged.”
- music11 mentions
- 27 % positive mentions
- 45 % neutral mentions
- 27 % negative mentions
The music in the game is widely praised for its nostalgic value and iconic status, with many players noting that the remastered soundtrack enhances the overall experience. Reviewers highlight the soundtrack as a masterpiece that evokes strong memories and emotions, making it a significant aspect of their enjoyment. Overall, the music remains a standout feature that resonates with both long-time fans and new players alike.
“Everything down to the soundtrack is a masterpiece.”
“Im 26 now and the remastered music here is an absolute bop and I find myself head bobbing while playing.”
“The music is, as always, phenomenal, but that goes without saying.”
“I love the remaster, the new graphics and updated soundtrack, but this could actually be more comfortable to play.”
“I was a huge fan of this game when I was a kid, and I still get excited by the music and cutscenes, but wow, the controls are just painful.”
“The remastered music here is an absolute bop and I find myself head bobbing while playing.”
- graphics4 mentions
- 50 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 50 % negative mentions
The graphics of the game evoke a strong sense of nostalgia, with retro visuals that, while dated, add to its charm and appeal. The remastered version features updated graphics and a new soundtrack, enhancing the overall experience, though some players feel that the gameplay could be more comfortable. Overall, the graphics successfully blend nostalgia with modern enhancements.
“I love the remaster, the new graphics and updated soundtrack.”
“Its graphics are old but still fun to play.”
“I kept thinking, 'did I forget how completely stupid every unit in this game is.' I love the remaster, the new graphics and updated soundtrack, but this could actually be more comfortable to play.”
“The retro graphics have a unique charm, and while they might seem dated, they contribute to the game’s nostalgic allure.”
- gameplay4 mentions
- 75 % positive mentions
- 25 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
The gameplay is praised for its timeless quality, with engaging storylines and mechanics that remain enjoyable over time. The addition of expansions like Counterstrike and Aftermath introduces new missions, unique units, and factions, enhancing the overall experience and keeping the gameplay fresh and exciting.
“Absolutely marvelous! I've just finished the main Soviet campaign and... what amazing gameplay! I am going back now to Command & Conquer™ and the Covert Operations™ to play the 'second' campaign as Reds this time, plus expansion pack missions.”
“These titles have stood the test of time, proving that great gameplay and engaging storylines never age.”
“The addition of the Aftermath expands the content even further, introducing unique units and factions that keep the gameplay fresh and exciting.”
- atmosphere1 mentions
- 300 % positive mentions
- -500 % neutral mentions
- 300 % negative mentions
Players appreciate the game's unique flair and immersive atmosphere, noting that it stands out even when compared to its remastered version.
“The game maintains a unique flair and atmosphere that sets it apart from the remaster.”
“The immersive atmosphere draws you in and makes every moment feel impactful.”
“The haunting ambiance and detailed environments create a captivating experience.”
“The atmosphere feels flat and uninspired, lacking the depth that made the original so engaging.”
“Despite the visuals, the atmosphere fails to immerse me in the game world; it feels lifeless.”
“The game's atmosphere is disappointing, with repetitive sound design and dull environments that don't evoke any emotion.”
- humor1 mentions
- 300 % positive mentions
- -200 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
The game's humor, characterized by its black comedy, significantly enhances the overall experience, contributing to its status as one of the best titles of the 1990s. Additionally, the variation in units adds tactical depth and enjoyment.
“The black humor in the story made the game one of the best of the 1990s.”
“The humor is sharp and witty, keeping me entertained throughout the entire game.”
“I love how the game balances dark humor with lighthearted moments, making every encounter memorable.”