The Clangers arrive in physics based real-time strategy Uncrewed
The idea of a physics based real-time strategy, admittedly peaks one’s interest. The idea that all my units have to obey and react to certain laws of physics within a game world brings new meaning to ramming speed. Uncrewed is a game currently in Steam’s early access program that does just that.
The game however, goes one step further in that it doesn’t just have a physics based system, it also allows you to create all you own units from scratch. This means that every unit you want, be it land, air or sea must be built and designed by you. This combined with the games physics makes the design decisions you make very important as something that is top heavy, will fall over.
The current early access form allows you to experience the single player campaign, skirmish mode and multiplayer. With over 40 modules already in the game, you’re able to design a wide array of units and more are on the way plus improvements to the overall unit builder system.
Building your own units can not only be fun but a great way to break up the gameplay in the single player mode. With a variety of weaponry and structural mods you can create anything you can imagine as long as it will work within what the physics allow. You can create vehicles with specific purposes such as mining and combat and its often best to leave yourself several options to combat any threat.
The RTS gameplay is solid and adds an extra layer of depth due to the physics engine. Vehicles can run out of power quickly if they are too heavy, a great example being when you ram enemies causing funny things to happen on screen. While not the most fast paced of RTS’s out there, Uncrewed certainly has its own unique charm to add to the genre.
System Requirements
Minimum System Requirements:
o OS: Windows XP
o Processor: 2.2 Ghz Dual Core CPU
o Memory: 4 GB RAM
o Graphics: DirectX 9 compatible video card with 512 MB of VRAM
o DirectX: Version 9.0c
o Storage: 3 GB available space
o Sound Card: DirectX 9 compatible sound card
Recommended System Requirements:
o OS: Windows 7/8/8.1/10 (64 bit)
o Processor: Intel Core i5 6500 or equivalent Quad Core CPU
o Memory: 8 GB RAM
o Graphics: NVIDIA GeForce 950 GTX or equivalent video card with 2 GB of VRAM
o DirectX: Version 9.0c
o Storage: 3 GB available space
o Sound Card: DirectX 9 compatible sound card
Release Date
Uncrewed is available in its early access state now on steam and the full version of the game is expected within the first half of 2017.
Additional Thoughts
Even in its early access state, Uncrewed has a charm about it that transcends its sometimes-ugly appearance. The depth of customization and freedom this RTS gives you to create your own units and design every facet of them is unique in a genre that is usually rigid.
The blend of crafting and RTS blends well and creates a potential rarely seen in indie RTS games. While the game certainly does not hold a fast enough speed for a true competitive scene, the game has enough to it to allow a loyal fan base to continually create new content.
Most Anticipated Feature: Steam workshop support coupled with an already expansive unit editor could create some great player made units that should be tons of fun.
Price and Purchase
Uncrewed can be purchased for £8.99 for the standard steam early access version, however the price will be raised upon full launch.
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