GDI plays the same way they always have: Success through superior firepower. Their slow-moving tanks dominate the battlefield. Nod relies more on stealth tactics, although their giant Avatar battle robot might give GDI firepower a run for its money. However, Nod's don't gain momentum until they gain access to some of their upper-tier technologies, which makes the early campaign missions excessively difficult. Players must throw waves of suicide bombers against GDI's relentless march, while little rocket bikes and raider buggies get destroyed left and right. Playing as GDI, suicide bombers present a significant threat, since they appear nearly unstoppable when they approach in huge waves -- especially with stealth technology. The Scrin use advanced technology, such as teleportation and shields, to overcome their foes. Also, the poisonous effects of the Tiberium don't affect the Scrin units.
The game's interface mixes the classic C&C and its series spin-off, Generals. The classic toolbar makes a comeback, making it possible to have buildings suspended in queue and dropped at an opportune time. Production gets divided up into different tabs (buildings, infantry, armor, etc.), with sub tabs representing each production facility. Superweapons, like the Ion Cannon and Nuclear Missile get listed on the left side along with support powers, like artillery bombardment or radar jamming. It takes some time to get back into the swing of things, but it truly simplifies production management, with easy access to abilities when needed. Superweapons make it necessary to maintain multiple bases, since they invariably do severe damage over a large area, so easy production management tools must be present.
Multiplayer has also received some great attention, with a very nice collection of maps and the inclusion of voice communications. Players can also broadcast their games and invite spectators using the Battlecast system. Multiplayer skirmishes tend to be fast-paced, since it doesn't take very long to reach the upper technology tiers.
Tiberium War brings back Command & Conquer, and ensures that it captures the classic feel while updating it for a new decade of players. There might be one or two gripes, like how Nod's amped up stealth abilities, while GDI doesn't have many stealth detectors, but most issues seem insubstantial when caught in the frantic gameplay. It's good to be back in the Commander's seat.
Final Score: 9 (out of 10)
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