Command & Conquer: Renegade - PC Games

You’re initially put in the role of a GDI Commando in the ongoing fight against the Nod, with the chance to try out all the weapons and vehicles--which are an integral part of the game--that were introduced in the early titles in the franchise. Indeed, for the first hour or so, the sheer novelty of experiencing all this from ground level is engrossing enough, coupled with some early frenetic action that you can’t help but enjoy.

It does follow the template set by other first person shooters mind you, albeit backed by a constantly evolving mission, for while there are elements of strategy, much of the game ultimately boils down to running around, shooting, destroying buildings and upgrading your weapons.

The game really comes alive in multi-player mode though, with capture the flag, deathmatch and free for all fights included. More interestingly is the more traditional Command and Conquer mode, with two sides building up their own bases whilst attempting to destroy their opponents. Undoubtedly ideal fodder for some late night sessions.

Yet while Command & Conquer: Renegade is, overall, an enjoyable first person shooter that’s hard to dislike, it isn’t the best out there. It doesn’t capture the tension and atmosphere of Medal of Honor: Allied Assault, nor the intense action of Return to Castle Wolfenstein. And while it’s undoubtedly good, mindless fun, Westwood still have some work to do if they’re to capture this genre in the same way they’ve taken the RTS world.--Simon Brew