A Renegade Game
Command and Conquer: Renegade is an experiment for the real-time strategy franchise. Instead of the omnipotent bird's-eye view of the commander, you're a boots-on-the-ground commando. This is the game Starcraft: Ghost almost was, but in the Command and Conquer universe. The battle between the Global Defense Initiative and the Brotherhood of Nod comes to first person. For such a good game, I'm surprised that there weren't more of them. This is not just another FPS with a CnC skin, it takes the mechanics, infantry, vehicles, weapons, and buildings from the universe and makes them distinct game elements. The commando has access to machine guns, mini guns, rocket launchers, flame throwers, chemical sprays, C4, and the GDI ion cannon, all staples of the CnC universe. You regularly get access to the traditional CnC vehicles and explore power plants, barracks, factories, and guard towers, all modeled and fully realized in 3D. Renegade's graphics are definitely dated by today's standards, but the animations are surprisingly smooth. The commando is an authority bucking "renegade" that carries all his weapons at once. This was the era before regenerating health, 2 weapons, and conveniant cover. The game mixes up the fighting and requires the use of different weapons and tactics frequently, at a pace that never feels forced or repetitive. Do yourself a favor and play this game! Then when you're finished, lament that Starcraft: Ghost never gave us the same opportunity.
