I sometimes think this game is what Warcraft III would look like if Blizzard stuck to 2D/sprites instead of investing in the long-term development of a 3D sequel. TZAR is a rather hidden gem, under-appreciated, and very charming RTS. It came out at a time when there were a lot of other RTS games on the market and got lost in the mix. Basically: -Singleplayer/Campaign is an RPG/RTS hybrid with story, dialogue choices, in-game events/scenes, XP/level-up/inventory system; it's NOT trying to be an RPG epic, but done nicely, simple. -Skirmish Mode - RTS retaining RPG elements FOR ALL YOUR UNITS, you can even rename them and make them hero units and give them items to use! Comes with easy to use, powerful map-editor. Make your own RTS maps, campaign, or RPG if you want. The AI is GREAT - if an ally, they will help you build up your base! Even have troops to help protect it. ***There is so much customability in this game!!!** I don't even have enough space to write about it all. The game is loaded with TONS of small touches (perhaps too many?) and features way ahead of its time, distinguishing well from other RTS games. The interface is very helpful explaining too. The NEGATIVES: -Horrendous pathfinding. Even AI units seem to get stuck. (Be sure to assign group numbers) -AI is RELENTLESS. Tank rushes you. Example: magic units can cast multiple spells. Computer auto-manages collectively. You cannot. 10 AI mages can nuke your 50 guys in the time you select one mage to cast their nuke them. -Music is "midi" and sucks very bad. -No voice-acting except with some units, especially when they die. -Because of difficult AI (even on EASY), you often enter into an endless war of attrition until one side runs out of resources it controls. (I play Deathmatch with Destroy Castles victory condition for CRAZY fun epic war.) **You WILL find yourself forced to think creatively, trying new things to defeat the AI.** How do you stop the slaughter? It can be frustrating AND addicting.
