GameSlice: Behind the Scenes of the Computer and Video Game Industry

GameSlice Daily Editorial

March 21, 2000

Page 2 of 3

Daily editorial
on trends in the gaming
industry and
hot topics.
HERE

Interested in the process of game development? Sound, graphics, code, and design are all covered
in our game design section.
HERE

Back to Index
HERE

C&C: Firestorm
Although Westwood Studios has had a spotty history when it comes to add-on packs for C&C games – anyone remember the fury over not being able to use the new Red Alert expansion units in multiplayer? – the company's recently-released add-on for Tiberian Sun, Firestorm, is an impressive collection of new units and missions which are faithful to the C&C universe. Most impressive this time around are the full motion video segues between missions that are arguably better than Tiberian Sun's (minus the star power of James Earl Jones). The video sequences lend an air of authenticity to the product and show that it wasn't just rushed through production in order to capitalize on Tiberian Sun's success.
In typical Westwood fashion the game only has a small grouping of new units, but the inclusion of the GDI Juggernaut is a welcome addition to those GDI faithful who are still trying to recover from the devastating Nod artillery in the original game. (Thankfully the Juggernaut has a long range in battle). Another interesting addition are mobile war factories that help make sure battles aren't as localized as they were in other C&C games. All in all, if you enjoyed Tiberian Sun, Firestorm is an add-on pack to put on your shopping list.

Incite Screenshots
A few weeks ago I praised Incite magazine's video features, and this week I'm giving a checkmark to a new feature in the magazine which falls under the, 'Why didn't anyone else think of that sooner?' category. In the latest issue of Incite PC gaming (featuring Heavy Metal FAKK 2 on the cover), the editors have decided to include beautiful two-page full-color screenshots from upcoming games. Although we often see tableau-style screenshots in game advertising (Total Annihilation and Age of Empires II come to mind), to see a full 2-page spread with a game screenshot is a sight to behold and the ultimate piece of advertising. The images look so real you could literally paste the pages on your monitor and imagine playing the game. Although Next Generation has done something similar with their "Alphas" section, I've never seen screenshots this big in a magazine. Kudos to Incite!
Next, find out where the Tomb Raider series should be going next >>>