Command and Conquer: Red Alert 2

Title: Command and Conquer: Red Alert 2
Platform Played On: PC
Release Date: October 21, 2000
Date Played: October - November 2000
Time Played: 20+ hours
Completed (Y/N): Yes
Score: 5/5



Opinion:
The original Command and Conquer Red Alert is one of my most beloved video games. I consider it to be one of the defining founders of the RTS genre, it maybe didn't evolve it, but it sure as hell solidified its definition.

I was very excited to find out about the release of RA2. It was the game I had to play right away, and so I borrowed a copy from my high school friend and fired it up as soon as I got home. Right away I was impressed by the installer, it was the first time Ive seen it do something else other than show a progress bar. Here in RA2 it told an engaging story of the events that lead up to the first mission, basically it ensured that I was as pumped as I could ever be by the time I actually clicked the shortcut on my desktop.

Everything about Red Alert 2 was stunning. It was a perfect product. From the controversial box art (post 9/11/01) to incredible intro depicting the Soviet invasion to the in engine graphics featuring highly detailed sprites.

The story assumed Allied victory in the first game and portrays second attempt from the Soviets to take over the world. It is very akin to World War 2, if you consider RA1 to be World War 1.

Just like the first game it comes on two discs, Soviet disc and Allied disc, so again, in essence two separate campaigns. The story is again presented with full motion video cut scenes, much better CG and higher resolution than the original game. It does appear to be more corny, but that plays to the strengths of the game. Most of everyone's favorite units make a comeback (like Tesla Coils) redrawn with higher fidelity, and look better than ever in RA2; however Westwood did add new units and buildings as well.

Red Alert 2 is an excellent iteration on the series. Westwood improved on everything I loved about the first game, and tweaked things to make the game better (such as difficulty and escort missions). New mechanics like garrisoning units in civilian buildings and bigger and more bad ass units (like Tesla Tank) make Red Alert 2 the definitive version in the series. I love it!