New RTS Red Chaos pays homage to classic Command and Conquer
The legacy of the Command and Conquer franchise has left an indelible mark on the real-time strategy (RTS) genre. With the series largely dormant, a wave of spiritual successors has emerged, bringing fresh takes on classic gameplay. One of the most promising titles in this resurgence is Red Chaos: The Strict Order, developed by Squarecut Games. This game aims to marry nostalgia with modern gaming sensibilities, capturing the essence of what made the original titles so memorable.
What is Red Chaos: The Strict Order?
Red Chaos: The Strict Order is a modern reinterpretation of traditional RTS gameplay, designed to resonate with fans of the genre, especially those who enjoyed games like Red Alert 2 and Tiberian Sun. Set in a post-apocalyptic world ravaged by war, players are thrust into a politically charged environment where the remnants of humanity struggle for survival.
The game's narrative unfolds in the 'Untainted Garden,' an area that escaped the worst of the global conflict. However, this sanctuary quickly becomes a hotbed of political intrigue, as the authoritarian Iron Hand regime tightens its grip on power, leading to widespread civilian oppression. In response, a resistance group known as the GRA emerges to challenge this tyranny.
Gameplay Mechanics and Factions
Players can choose between two distinct factions: the Iron Hand and the GRA. Each faction offers unique gameplay mechanics and strategies, catering to different playstyles.
- The Iron Hand: Equipped with advanced technology, this faction boasts superior air and ground units, such as the formidable Titan tanks. Players can opt for brute strength or focus on defensive strategies to withstand the GRA's guerilla tactics.
- The GRA: This faction relies on deception, mobility, and unconventional warfare. With units like the Flying Rhino, which bombards enemies from the sky, the GRA employs hit-and-run tactics and utilizes a network of underground tunnels for rapid troop movement.
The choice of faction not only influences unit types but also the overall strategy players must adopt to secure victory. The game encourages players to explore various tactics to outmaneuver their opponents.
Current Features and Early Access Launch
As of now, Red Chaos has entered early access, allowing players to explore its core combat mechanics. The initial offering includes:
- Two playable factions for both multiplayer matches and skirmishes against AI opponents.
- Real-time match observation features.
- Twelve tutorial missions designed to familiarize players with game mechanics.
While the game is still in its early stages, it provides a solid foundation for players to engage with. A more extensive campaign mode is slated for future updates, promising to deepen the narrative experience.
Roadmap and Future Development
Squarecut Games has outlined an ambitious roadmap for Red Chaos, highlighting key goals for the upcoming months:
- Enhancing gameplay balance for existing content.
- Adding new maps to expand the tactical possibilities.
- Introducing two sub-factions, with one focusing on air superiority.
- Rolling out the initial chapters of the narrative campaign within the first year.
As the early access period progresses, Squarecut plans to gradually increase the game's price to reflect the addition of new features, aiming for a comprehensive launch in approximately 12 to 15 months.
Community and Feedback
The development team has expressed a strong commitment to community engagement, actively seeking player feedback to refine the game. This approach not only fosters a sense of ownership among players but also ensures that the final product aligns with the expectations of the RTS community.
Players interested in sharing their thoughts can join the ongoing discussions in various forums and platforms, including the PCGamesN community Discord server. This participatory model is vital for the game's evolution, allowing developers to adapt to player desires and critiques.
How to Get Red Chaos
Red Chaos: The Strict Order is currently available on Steam in early access, with an introductory discount of 15% off the standard price. Players can purchase the game for $19.97 / £17.84 until October 10. The developers encourage players to dive in early and contribute to the game's development.
For more details or to make a purchase, visit the Steam store page.
Staying Updated on RTS Trends
As the RTS genre continues to evolve, Red Chaos stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of classic gameplay. For those looking to keep their strategic minds sharp, exploring the best strategy games and indie titles is a great way to stay engaged with the community.
For recommendations, check out the best strategy games available on PC and discover hidden gems among the best indie games of 2025.
In a world where new RTS games can feel scarce, Red Chaos: The Strict Order offers a refreshing return to form, blending nostalgia with modern gameplay innovations. Whether you're a veteran player or new to the genre, this title promises to deliver compelling strategic experiences.
For those interested in visual previews, check out this insightful video that delves into the game's mechanics and strategies:
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