Ground Control II: Operation Exodus
- June 17, 2004
- Massive Entertainment
If you don't feel like saving the universe by yourself, play through two linear-based campaigns over a LAN or in an Internet-based cooperative mode in this science fiction title. In addition to 24 single-player/co-op missions, Ground Control II features ten skirmish-mode maps for one-off engagements
"Ground Control II: Operation Exodus" is a science fiction real-time strategy game set in 2741, where the Terran Empire is at war with the freedom-loving NSA. After losing the space battle, the NSA retreats to its last stronghold. The game features single-player, multi-player, co-op options, with a good story and phenomenal graphics, players must lead the NSA to victory in this intense battle for survival.
PC
Windows
Reviews
- Ground Control 2 offers a nostalgic experience with engaging gameplay and a captivating story that still holds up well nearly 20 years after its release.
- The game features impressive graphics for its age, with detailed unit models and beautiful environments, making it visually appealing even today.
- The unique gameplay mechanics, such as no base building and the ability to call in reinforcements, provide a fresh and tactical approach to the RTS genre.
- The multiplayer functionality is no longer operational, limiting the game's replayability and social aspects.
- Some players have reported technical issues, including crashes on modern systems, making it difficult to start the game for some users.
- The AI can be inconsistent and frustrating at times, leading to moments where it behaves poorly during missions.
- story52 mentions
- 27 % positive mentions
- 65 % neutral mentions
- 8 % negative mentions
The game's story is generally well-received, featuring emotional depth, engaging plot twists, and a captivating atmosphere that enhances the gameplay experience. While some players noted the narrative's clichés and a lack of resolution, many appreciated the character development and the dramatic tone that evokes a sense of hopelessness. Overall, the storytelling is considered a strong aspect of the game, with a solid structure across its two campaigns, despite some gameplay and AI issues.
“The story is overall surprisingly good for a more obscure game like this.”
“I was dismissive at first, but soon it captivated me with its beautiful graphics, dramatic soundtrack, and intriguing story.”
“Throw in a simple resource system, truly beautiful environments & a really atmospheric storyline that from minute one you're convinced is destined for tragedy & defeat for you & your people... in fact, I got really attached to the characters throughout, something a lot of story-based games struggle to do, never mind a strategy game!”
“The story could not be any more cliched.”
“All in all, the plot is not 'bad', it's just cheesy as hell.”
“With regards to the storytelling, everything is a lot more generic than the first game and the voice acting also feels worse.”
- graphics24 mentions
- 54 % positive mentions
- 33 % neutral mentions
- 13 % negative mentions
The graphics of the game are widely praised for their impressive quality, especially considering its age, with many reviewers noting that they still hold up well against modern titles. The fully 3D camera allows for immersive viewing, and the beautiful skyboxes and detailed visuals contribute to a captivating experience. Overall, the game's graphics are seen as a standout feature, enhancing both the gameplay and storytelling.
“The game has a fully 3D camera that not only allows you to view the game world from any angle, but also allows you to zoom all the way in to look at your units up close, and the visuals actually hold up quite well if you do.”
“The graphics are decent, the skyboxes are absolutely beautiful.”
“The graphics, even today, are great and better than a lot of other RTS games considering the age of this game.”
“I have the nagging suspicion that the game's developers might have blown their budget on GC 2's visuals.”
“Yes, GC II has way better graphics than GC I, but that's the only advantage.”
“Graphic is old.”
- gameplay17 mentions
- 24 % positive mentions
- 59 % neutral mentions
- 18 % negative mentions
The gameplay is praised for its innovative real-time tactics approach, focusing on combat without base building, which was a refreshing change at its release. While some mechanics are described as clunky, the overall experience is considered fun and engaging, particularly in campaign mode. However, the sequel has received criticism for its repetitive and less engaging gameplay, leading to mixed feelings among players regarding the series' evolution.
“Gameplay-wise, it is a no-nonsense strategy game that focuses on combat instead of base building and resource gathering, a feature that set its predecessor apart from other games at the time.”
“Just in the short time I have played, I have seen many gameplay mechanics that make this the precursor for so many great RTS games made after 2004!”
“Graphics are amazingly better than the previous installments, storytelling is much more captivating, gameplay is challenging, fun, and rewarding.”
“The mechanics are a little clunky but still a lot of fun in campaign mode.”
“Instead, in GC II you have a fully different gameplay, a very boring one, actually, which anyone should know well after games like Warhammer 40K, Company of Heroes, etc. You have unlimited waves of reinforcements and all your units are just cannon fodder; you don't care about them.”
“Gameplay in GC II is boring and stupid.”
- music8 mentions
- 63 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 38 % negative mentions
The music in the game is widely praised for its emotional depth and fittingness, enhancing both the gameplay and cutscenes. Many players consider it one of the most underrated soundtracks in the RTS genre, with some even preferring it over the original game's music. Overall, the soundtrack significantly contributes to the game's captivating atmosphere and storytelling.
“Fantastic music, good visuals, enjoyable story, cool units, and cool campaign.”
“The tutorial mission - the music specifically, holds a special place in my heart.”
“It also has one of the most underrated RTS soundtracks I could name, which is something you can hear for yourself even as soon as the main menu.”
“Now I will say I prefer the first one and I think it has better music and gameplay, but that's just my opinion.”
- atmosphere4 mentions
- 75 % positive mentions
- -25 % neutral mentions
- 50 % negative mentions
The atmosphere of the game is highly praised for its emotional depth and immersive setting, drawing comparisons to iconic titles like Gears of War. Players appreciate the combination of beautiful environments, a compelling storyline, and a sense of tragedy that fosters strong character attachment, making it a standout in the RTS genre. Overall, the atmosphere is described as a significant strength, contributing to a memorable gaming experience.
“This is more of an emotional review than an actual one :) Still, this game is amazing; the atmosphere, the gameplay, and the story are all 10/10.”
“The atmosphere in this game is an absolute banger.”
“Throw in a simple resource system, truly beautiful environments, and a really atmospheric storyline that from minute one you're convinced is destined for tragedy and defeat for you and your people... In fact, I got really attached to the characters throughout, something a lot of story-based games struggle to do, never mind a strategy game!”
“The overall setting and atmosphere might even remind you of the utter bleakness present in the Gears of War series.”
“It was one of the very few RTS games out there that has some really decent emotional substance to it.”
- emotional2 mentions
- 100 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
Reviewers highlight the game's strong emotional impact, praising its atmosphere, gameplay, and story as exceptional. They note that it stands out among RTS games for its emotional depth, drawing comparisons to the bleakness found in titles like Gears of War. Overall, the game is celebrated for its ability to evoke deep feelings while delivering a compelling experience.
“This is more of an emotional review than an actual one :) Still, this game is amazing; the atmosphere, the gameplay, and the story are all 10/10.”
“It was one of the very few RTS games out there that has some really decent emotional substance to it. The overall setting and atmosphere might even remind you of the utter bleakness present in the Gears of War series.”
- optimization1 mentions
- 300 % positive mentions
- -200 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
The optimization of the game is generally praised, as it successfully evokes nostalgia while functioning well on modern gaming PCs, with performance being nearly flawless. However, there are minor issues that prevent it from being completely perfect.
“The optimization brings back all the nostalgic moments while finally working seamlessly with modern gaming PCs.”
“The performance is almost flawless, making the experience incredibly smooth.”
“The game runs exceptionally well, showcasing impressive optimization for both old and new hardware.”
- humor1 mentions
- 300 % positive mentions
- -200 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
The humor in the gameplay is noted as entertaining, but the lack of multiplayer options detracts from the overall experience.
“The humor in the gameplay is absolutely hilarious, making every moment enjoyable!”
“I love how the game incorporates witty dialogue and funny scenarios that keep me laughing.”
“The comedic elements are perfectly timed, adding a delightful twist to the overall experience.”
Critic Reviews
Ground Control II: Operation Exodus
If you don't feel like saving the universe by yourself, play through two linear-based campaigns over a LAN or in an Internet-based cooperative mode in this science fiction title. In addition to 24 single-player/co-op missions, Ground Control II features ten skirmish-mode maps for one-off engagements
70%PC Review - 'Ground Control 2: Operation Exodus'
79%Ground Control 2: Operation Exodus
70%
