The State of War PC game refers to a real-time strategy (RTS) series developed by the Ukrainian studio Fireglow Games. There are two main titles in the series:
- Genre: Real-Time Strategy (RTS)
- Developer: Fireglow Games
- Publisher: Strategy First (NA), CDV Software (EU)
- Key Features:
- Military Focus: Centers on modern/futuristic warfare with land, air, and naval units.
- Campaign: Features a story-driven campaign set in a fictional conflict involving global superpowers and rogue states.
- Multiplayer: Supports LAN and online multiplayer (though online play is now largely defunct).
- Unit Variety: Includes tanks, helicopters, infantry, ships, and specialized units.
- Resource Management: Requires gathering resources (oil, minerals) to build bases and units.
- AI: Known for challenging AI opponents, especially on higher difficulties.
- Reception: Received mixed to positive reviews upon release. Praised for its solid RTS mechanics, AI, and scale, but criticized for dated graphics and sound by some.
- Availability: Can be found on GOG.com (Good Old Games) in a digital format, often bundled with its sequel. Physical copies are rare.
State of War 2: Arcon (2005)
- Genre: Real-Time Strategy (RTS)
- Developer: Fireglow Games
- Publisher: Strategy First (NA), CDV Software (EU)
- Key Features:
- Sequel Improvements: Builds upon the first game with updated graphics, new units, and refined gameplay.
- Expanded Universe: Introduces new factions, technologies, and a new campaign set in the same fictional world.
- Enhanced AI: Promises smarter and more aggressive AI behavior.
- Larger Scale: Supports bigger battles and more complex base-building.
- Similar Core Mechanics: Retains the core RTS loop of resource gathering, base building, and combat.
- Reception: Generally received better reviews than the original, often seen as a solid evolution of the formula. Still noted for its niche appeal and aging visuals.
- Availability: Also available on GOG.com, often bundled with the first game.
Common Characteristics of the Series:
- Niche RTS: Represents a more traditional, micro-intensive style of RTS compared to mainstream titles like StarCraft or Command & Conquer.
- Hardcore Focus: Emphasizes tactical depth, resource management, and unit positioning.
- Forgotten Classic: While respected by some RTS enthusiasts, the series remains relatively obscure compared to bigger franchises.
- System Compatibility: Being older games (especially the original 2001 title), they may require compatibility tweaks (like running in compatibility mode or using DOSBox) on modern Windows versions.
Where to Play:
- GOG.com: The primary and safest source for both games. GOG versions are typically DRM-free and include compatibility fixes.
- Avoid Unofficial Sources: Torrents or shady third-party sites often contain malware or broken versions.
In Summary:
"State of War" is a classic RTS series known for its military focus, challenging AI, and deep tactical gameplay. While graphically dated and niche, it holds a place in the history of PC strategy games for fans of the genre. If you enjoy hardcore RTS with resource management and complex battles, it's worth checking out via GOG.com.
