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Command & Conquer Remastered Collection

Name: Comprehensive Review and Analysis of Command & Conquer Remastered Collection
Item: Command & Conquer Remastered Collection
Author: MonsterCritic Editorial Team

2020

GenresTop-Down Perspective, Strategy, Single Player, Multiplayer

AvailableJun 5, 2020

PlatformPC

DeveloperPetroglyph

Overview

Contains the complete Tiberian Dawn and Red Alert games, plus all three expansion packs (Covert Operations, Counterstrike, and The Aftermath), completely remastered music and graphics, UI improvements, and tons of bonus features and improvements.

Elsewhere

Game analysis

Monster Scorecard

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Story and Narrative

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TL;DR

Command & Conquer: Remastered Collection is a nostalgic 90s RTS gem praised for its campy storytelling, iconic FMVs, and alternate histories, but plagued by outdated narratives, cheesy cutscenes, and linear campaigns—loved by fans, criticized for flaws.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

10%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

87%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the story and narrative.

The majority of reviewers highlight the nostalgic charm and historical significance of Command & Conquer: Remastered Collection’s storytelling, emphasizing its role as a cultural artifact from the 1990s RTS era. Critics like AusGamers and Cultured Vultures praise the b-movie style narratives, noting their immersive interactivity and campy appeal, while GameOver.gr and Vandal commend the unique storytelling approach, comparing it to StarCraft in terms of iconic FMVs and faction conflicts. The alternate histories—such as Red Alert’s time-travel premise and Tiberian Dawn’s Tiberium crisis—are celebrated for their creativity, with Eurogamer Italy and Game Rant acknowledging the blend of Cold War themes and sci-fi elements. Additionally, GamingTrend and Screen Rant highlight the enduring appeal of the dual narratives, where players experience GDI vs. Nod or Allies vs. Soviets through engaging, if simplistic, mission structures. The remastered visuals and updated audio are seen as enhancing the original’s charm without altering its core identity. However, several critics point to the story’s limitations, particularly its outdated narrative depth and technical shortcomings. 3DJuegos and Eurogamer Italy criticize the FMV sequences for being poorly acted and lacking modern production value, with God is a Geek noting their “hammy” and “unintentionally humorous” nature. Game Rant and Player 2 describe the cutscenes as cheesy and overlong, while Gamer.nl (using Dutch terms like geweldig slechte) acknowledges the low production quality but accepts it as part of the nostalgic package. Riot Pixels and Jeuxvideo.com mention that while the plot was groundbreaking in the 90s, its structure feels dated today, with Game Revolution and Multiplayer.it pointing to a lack of character development or complex storytelling. The absence of Generals in the collection and the linear nature of campaigns also draw criticism, as noted by Areajugones and Gamer.no, who feel the narrative could have been more ambitious. Overall, the consensus among critics is that the story of Command & Conquer: Remastered Collection succeeds as a nostalgic trip rather than a modern narrative achievement. While 3DJuegos and Eurogamer Italy acknowledge its dated elements, they balance this with praise for its historical impact and charm. GameOver.gr and Vandal argue that the story’s quirks—like FMVs and alternate histories—are endearing despite their flaws, making it a must-play for fans of the genre’s roots. The collection is seen as a preservation of 90s RTS culture, with SpazioGames and USgamer emphasizing its role as a cultural artifact. Though not without its weaknesses, the story’s enduring appeal lies in its ability to evoke nostalgia while offering a glimpse into the early days of strategy gaming.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

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TL;DR

A love letter to classic RTS, Command & Conquer Remastered Collection preserves iconic mechanics and adds modern conveniences, but its outdated AI, repetitive design, and lack of innovation leave it struggling to compete with today’s standards—offering nostalgic charm for veterans yet feeling archaic for newcomers.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

50%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

46%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the gameplay mechanics.

The gameplay of Command & Conquer Remastered Collection receives praise for its preservation of classic RTS mechanics and modernized conveniences that enhance accessibility. Critics highlight improvements such as right-click unit commands, streamlined UI elements like tabbed build menus, and quality-of-life updates like hotkeys and mission selection (KeenGamer, Eurogamer Italy). The core systems—resource gathering, base building, and unit production—remain intact, offering a nostalgic experience for veterans. Multiplayer and skirmish modes are particularly lauded for their engaging, human-driven challenges, with some reviewers noting the appeal of competitive play despite the game’s age (Eurogamer Italy, MGG). Additionally, features like mod support, map editors, and customizable controls (e.g., legacy vs. modern settings) cater to both purists and newcomers (Player 2, Wccftech). The strategic depth of factions and unit balance is also praised, with IGN Italia emphasizing the game’s “simple yet complex” design that rewards tactical thinking. However, the gameplay faces significant criticism for its outdated mechanics and technical shortcomings. Many reviewers point to issues like poor AI behavior, flawed pathfinding, and repetitive mission structures that feel archaic compared to modern RTS standards (SpazioGames, Eurogamer Italy). Problems such as friendly fire, unbalanced unit interactions, and a steep learning curve are frequently cited, with some calling the single-player campaign “unforgiving” and frustrating (MGG, PCGamesN). The lack of modern features—such as move-and-attack commands or unit formations—further hampers the experience for newer players (Player 2, Windows Central). Critics like GAMINGbible and PCGamesN note that original flaws, such as AI “cheating” or inefficient resource management, remain unaddressed, diminishing the game’s appeal beyond nostalgic fans. These issues are compounded by a lack of innovation in mechanics, leaving many to question whether the remaster adequately modernizes its foundation. Overall, critics agree that Command & Conquer Remastered Collection is a bittersweet experience—a loving tribute to the original with enough updates to make it playable today, but hindered by its dated design. While the core appeal lies in its strategic depth and nostalgic charm (Cultured Vultures, IGN Italia), the technical flaws and lack of modernization create a divide between longtime fans and newcomers. The consensus leans toward appreciation for its historical significance and multiplayer potential, but with reservations about its ability to compete with contemporary RTS games. As GameSpew notes, the game’s “classic feel” is both its strength and limitation, offering a rewarding challenge for those who embrace its quirks while highlighting the gaps that modern titles have filled (Gamer.nl, Wccftech). Ultimately, it’s a package that prioritizes preservation over evolution, satisfying nostalgia but leaving room for improvement.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

A nostalgic yet flawed remaster: 4K upgrades and toggle options shine, but dated FMVs and inconsistent upscaling mar an otherwise respectful tribute to classics.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

67%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

33%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the graphics and visual design.

The positives surrounding the Graphics and Visual Design of Command & Conquer Remastered Collection are largely centered on its successful modernization while preserving nostalgic charm. Many critics praised the 4K upscaling, enhanced textures, and improved details in units and structures, with PCGamesN noting that "the 4K graphics add detail without losing their original spirit," and Cultured Vultures appreciating the toggle between pixelated originals and high-resolution visuals. The ability to switch between old and new styles was a recurring highlight, as seen in reviews from GameStar, which praised the "zoom functionality" and "option to toggle between old and new visuals," and IGN Spain, which emphasized "technical upgrades while retaining retro charm." Additionally, the remaster’s attention to detail—such as re-rendered UI elements (Gamer.nl) and restored Westwood logos (DualShockers)—was celebrated for balancing modern clarity with classic aesthetics. However, negatives emerged around the limitations of the remastering process, particularly with FMV cutscenes and outdated source material. Critics like CGMagazine and GameSpew criticized the "distracting" CGI backgrounds in older cutscenes and their "stretched" appearance on modern displays, while Destructoid and Eurogamer Italy noted that "FMVs look poor on high-resolution screens" despite upgrades. Some reviewers, such as GameMAG and Vgames, pointed out inconsistencies in AI upscaling, with Tiberian Dawn benefiting more than Red Alert due to source material quality. Others, like PC Games and MGG, highlighted issues like "sterile landscapes" or "lighting inconsistencies," while Metro GameCentral and Jeuxvideo.com criticized the "poor video quality of live-action cutscenes" that couldn’t be fully upgraded. These flaws created a jarring contrast between polished graphics and dated sequences, undermining the remaster’s cohesion. The overall consensus among critics is that Command & Conquer Remastered Collection strikes a balance between nostalgia and modernization, though with notable trade-offs. While most praised its 4K enhancements, toggle options, and faithful recreation of original art styles (e.g., SpazioGames’ note on "minimal remastering" preserving the 2D aesthetic), the limitations of aging source material—especially in FMVs—were a persistent critique. Reviews like those from Game Rant and JeuxActu acknowledged that "FMV cutscenes are upscaled but described as cheesy," while others, such as Malditos Nerds, compared it to Age of Empires 2 HD, noting "graphical upgrades without revolutionary changes." Despite these flaws, the remaster was widely seen as a respectful update that honors its legacy, with many critics (e.g., Game Revolution, Wccftech) emphasizing its success in making classic visuals accessible to modern audiences while preserving their retro appeal.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

A nostalgic yet flawed remaster: 4K upgrades and toggle options shine, but dated FMVs and inconsistent upscaling mar an otherwise respectful tribute to classics.

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

Nostalgic sound design and remastered music elevate Command & Conquer Remastered Collection, blending retro charm with modern polish—Klepacki’s iconic tracks shine brighter than ever, while a customizable jukebox and 5.1 enhancements immerse fans in a bygone era reimagined for today. Minor gripes about repetition and inconsistent upscaling pale next to its triumphant revival of childhood memories.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

86%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

14%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the music and sound design.

The sound design and music of Command & Conquer Remastered Collection received widespread acclaim, with critics highlighting its nostalgic charm and technical improvements. Frank Klepacki’s original compositions were remastered with enhanced clarity and dynamic range, preserving their iconic status while modernizing their production. The inclusion of a customizable jukebox allowing players to curate playlists from over seven hours of music—spanning classic tracks like Hell March and new additions—was frequently praised as a standout feature. Reviewers such as Screen Rant noted the “endearing” audio, emphasizing clear dialogue and retro sound effects that evoke the game’s 1990s roots, while GameStar and GAMINGbible highlighted the improved mixing and immersive quality of the score. The remastered soundtrack’s ability to balance modernization with authenticity resonated strongly, as seen in Eurogamer Italy’s praise for its “excellent” and “driving” energy, and Hobby Consolas’ appreciation for 5.1 sound enhancements on tracks like Hell March. Despite the overall enthusiasm, some critiques pointed to minor shortcomings. A few reviewers noted that not all audio elements received equal attention: KeenGamer and PC Games mentioned that cutscene upscaling was inconsistent, with some videos appearing dated compared to later C&C titles. Additionally, Vgames observed that while the remastered tracks were vast, some felt repetitive, and Vandal noted that the industrial metal style of the soundtrack could be overwhelming at times. A handful of reviews, such as Metro GameCentral and Multiplayer.it, provided limited detail on sound design beyond the music, focusing more on visual or gameplay upgrades. These critiques, while present, were overshadowed by the general consensus that the audio enhancements significantly elevated the experience. The majority of critics agreed that the remastered soundtrack and sound design were a major success, celebrating their ability to honor the original while offering modern refinements. IGN Spain and Gaming Nexus called the music an “absolute treat,” while Cultured Vultures praised the care taken in preserving the original’s essence through toggleable audio options. Even critics with minor reservations acknowledged the effort behind the project, such as Meristation, which highlighted the 20 re-recorded tracks by Klepacki and The Tiberian Sons. While not flawless, the collection’s audio was universally recognized as a key strength, with its nostalgic value and technical upgrades earning it a place as one of the remaster’s most memorable aspects. As God is a Geek noted, the music evoked “childhood memories,” reinforcing its emotional impact on long-time fans.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Voice Acting

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TL;DR

Nostalgia meets clunky charm in Command & Conquer Remastered Collection’s voice acting—preserved performances like EVA’s re-recording and Kane’s theatrics earn praise, but dated hamminess, static dialogue, and AI-upscaled flaws linger, making it a mixed bag that prioritizes retro authenticity over modern polish.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VOICE ACTING

Acting Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

28%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

72%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the voice acting.

The voice acting in Command & Conquer Remastered Collection receives generally positive feedback, particularly for its preservation of original performances and nostalgic appeal. Critics highlight the return of key voice actors like Kia Huntzinger, who re-recorded EVA’s lines for improved clarity while maintaining the character’s iconic tone (3DJuegos, COGconnected, Digital Chumps). Joseph D. Kuncan’s portrayal of Kane is praised for its over-the-top, theatrical style, which aligns with the game’s 1990s aesthetic and adds to its charm (Attack of the Fanboy, AusGamers). Additionally, Tim Curry’s memorable “SPACE!” line in Red Alert 3 is noted as a standout moment (GameSpew), while IGN Spain commends the immersive and professional quality of the voice work. Many reviews emphasize that these efforts enhance the remaster’s appeal to longtime fans by preserving the original’s audio identity. However, some critiques point to the dated nature of the voice acting, which reflects the era’s campy or hammy style. AusGamers and MGG describe the FMV cutscenes as featuring “hammy, over-the-top performances” that feel intentionally cheesy but may not resonate with modern audiences (MGG). Jeuxvideo.com and SpazioGames note that the 1990s-style voice work feels “dated and somewhat cringe by modern standards,” while GameOver.gr mentions static-laden dialogue reminiscent of 1970s videos. Additionally, while EVA’s re-recording is celebrated, many reviews lack detailed analysis of other voice actors’ performances, leaving the broader quality of the cast underexplored (GameMAG, Destructoid). The remaster’s use of AI to upscale older FMVs also resulted in uneven visual and audio quality, with some critics noting visible artifacts that detract from the experience (MGG). Overall, the consensus among reviewers is that the voice acting strikes a balance between nostalgia and modest improvements. While the preservation of original performances—especially EVA’s and Kane’s—is widely appreciated (3DJuegos, GameRevolution, KeenGamer), the broader voice work remains a mixed bag, with some praising its charm and others critiquing its dated execution. The remaster’s focus on authenticity over innovation is evident, as seen in critics like Gamer.nl, who acknowledge the “gloriously awful” production quality but recognize the effort to honor the game’s legacy. Ultimately, while the voice acting isn’t a revolutionary highlight, it successfully reinforces the game’s nostalgic appeal for fans, even if it doesn’t fully transcend its 1990s roots.

TL;DR

voice acting

Technical Performance

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TL;DR

Command & Conquer Remastered Collection delivers stable, high-performance gameplay with 4K/60-120 FPS, modern UI, mod support, and polished multiplayer—yet plagued by AI glitches, crashes, 'Alt + Tab of Doom' bugs, and 90s-era quirks. Critics praise its nostalgic revival but clash over whether technical flaws undermine its modernization.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

27%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

70%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the technical performance.

The technical performance of Command & Conquer Remastered Collection on PC is largely praised for its stability, modernized features, and smooth gameplay. Many critics highlight the game’s ability to run at high frame rates (60–120 FPS) with support for 4K resolutions, as noted by COGconnected and VG247, while Attack of the Fanboy emphasizes minimal bugs and solid performance. The remaster also introduces improved UI elements, modding support via Steam Workshop, and dedicated servers for multiplayer, as praised by Gamer.no and VG247. IGN Spain specifically commends the game’s smooth online performance, while USgamer acknowledges its "playable by modern standards" status with updated controls and interfaces. These positives suggest that the remaster successfully leverages modern hardware to enhance accessibility without sacrificing core gameplay. However, several technical issues persist across platforms, particularly in AI behavior, performance hiccups, and unresolved bugs. 3DJuegos and GameMAG report lag at startup, interface glitches, and crashes during large-scale battles, while KeenGamer highlights severe multiplayer crashes and framerate drops. Screen Rant points to the "Alt + Tab of Doom" bug, causing black screens when switching applications, and Jeuxvideo.com criticizes outdated AI and pathfinding systems. Other issues include unit queuing problems (Attack of the Fanboy), pixelated cutscenes (Vgames), and inconsistent AI behavior (Critical Hit). While some critics like DarkStation and GameOver.gr note no major technical flaws, others argue that the remaster’s reliance on original source code leaves many 90s-era imperfections intact, such as "unresponsive movement" (MGG) and "poor unit pathfinding" (Gamersky). Overall, critics agree that Command & Conquer Remastered Collection is a technically stable experience with notable improvements, but it retains the original games’ quirks. While COGconnected and VG247 praise its modernized tools and optimization, others like GameMAG and KeenGamer emphasize persistent bugs that detract from immersion. The consensus leans toward a balanced view: the remaster successfully updates the classic titles for contemporary players, yet its technical shortcomings—particularly in AI and performance—are seen as inevitable compromises to preserve authenticity. As IGN Spain notes, the game runs smoothly in most scenarios, but flaws like "outdated mechanics" (Jeuxvideo.com) and "unresolved bugs" (Screen Rant) underscore the challenges of balancing nostalgia with modern expectations. Despite these issues, the collection is broadly regarded as a worthwhile experience for fans, even if it falls short of perfect technical polish.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

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TL;DR

Command & Conquer Remastered Collection delivers unmatched replay value through missions, mods, and multiplayer, but outdated mechanics and steep learning curves limit its appeal to veterans only.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

70%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

30%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the replay value.

The replay value of Command & Conquer Remastered Collection is widely praised for its extensive content and modding capabilities, which cater to both nostalgia-driven fans and long-term engagement. Critics like Vandal, PC Games, and GamingTrend highlight the game’s over 100 missions, 250+ multiplayer maps, and robust map editor as key pillars of replayability. Features such as Steam Workshop support, modding tools, and mission re-playability (noted by Game Rant and Jeuxvideo.com) allow players to customize and extend gameplay, while the inclusion of hidden missions, expansions, and console-era content (as emphasized by DualShockers and Hobby Consolas) adds depth. The remaster’s ability to revisit classic campaigns with modern visuals, combined with multiplayer modes like skirmish and 1v1 matches (mentioned by Vgames and Windows Central), ensures a varied experience. Many reviewers, including Critical Hit and Cultured Vultures, also commend the game’s nostalgic appeal and authenticity, which resonate strongly with veterans of the original titles. However, several critics point to limitations that may hinder broader appeal. SpazioGames and GameStar note that outdated gameplay mechanics and a steep difficulty curve could alienate modern players or newcomers, despite the game’s historical significance. Jeuxvideo.com and Multiplayer.it argue that accessibility is a major barrier, as the games’ complexity and lack of modern features (like streamlined tutorials) make them less inviting for those unfamiliar with the original series. CGMagazine’s brief playtime and MGG’s mention of “difficulty curves” suggest that the remaster may not sustain interest for all audiences. Additionally, some reviews, such as those from KeenGamer and Riot Pixels, highlight minor issues like gameplay imbalances or unpolished elements that could detract from long-term enjoyment. While mod support and community-driven content (as noted by Vgames and IGN Spain) mitigate these concerns, they don’t fully address the challenge of attracting new players. Overall, the critics agree that Command & Conquer Remastered Collection excels in replayability for dedicated fans, offering a treasure trove of content through campaigns, multiplayer, and modding tools. Reviews from Vandal, MGG, and PC Games emphasize its enduring appeal for veterans, while others like GameStar and Jeuxvideo.com acknowledge its niche status. The consensus leans toward the game being a strong package for those already invested in the series, with its replay value rooted in nostalgia, customization options, and community engagement. However, the lack of modernized mechanics or accessibility features means it may not fully resonate with newcomers, creating a divide between die-hard fans and casual players. Despite this, the majority of critics (including Destructoid, IGN Italia, and Cultured Vultures) view the remaster as a successful preservation of the original’s legacy, ensuring its relevance for years to come through its extensive features and passionate community.

TL;DR

replay value

Command & Conquer Remastered Collection delivers unmatched replay value through missions, mods, and multiplayer, but outdated mechanics and steep learning curves limit its appeal to veterans only.

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

83%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

17%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing all available reviews that scored and critiqued the game.

The overall verdict of Command & Conquer Remastered Collection is overwhelmingly positive, with critics praising its nostalgic value, faithful recreation of classic RTS design, and modernized presentation. Many reviewers highlight it as a loving tribute to the original games, emphasizing how it preserves the essence of 1990s strategy gameplay while updating visuals, sound, and user interfaces. Eurogamer Italy notes it appeals strongly to fans and those seeking memorabilia, while Vgames and Jeuxvideo.com commend its "community-driven features" and "modern conveniences." Critics like Game Rant and IGN Spain argue that the remaster successfully bridges the gap between nostalgia and accessibility, making it appealing to both veterans and newcomers. The collection’s value for money, comprehensive content, and attention to detail—such as restored FMVs and modding support—are frequently lauded, with 3DJuegos calling it a "benchmark for remasterizations" and Wccftech hailing it as "one of the best remasters ever." However, several critics point out limitations that may deter newer players or those seeking modern gameplay innovations. The remastered collection is often criticized for its outdated mechanics, punishing difficulty, and lack of accessibility features that could ease entry for newcomers. MGG and Multiplayer.it note that the "aging gameplay" and "outdated mechanics" might frustrate players unfamiliar with 90s RTS design, while KeenGamer highlights technical issues in multiplayer. Additionally, some reviews, like those from GameSpew and Areajugones, mention minor drawbacks such as AI shortcomings or the exclusion of additional titles like Generals. Despite these critiques, many acknowledge that these flaws are secondary to the collection’s core strengths, with GamingTrend describing it as a "standout release" despite its "AI limitations." The consensus among critics is that Command & Conquer Remastered Collection is a highly successful and respectful tribute to the franchise’s legacy, even if it doesn’t fully modernize its gameplay. The majority of reviews—such as those from 3DJuegos, Wccftech, and Cultured Vultures—emphasize its ability to balance nostalgia with contemporary touches, making it a must-have for fans and a compelling entry point for newcomers. While some critics, like VG247 and PCGamesN, acknowledge its "outdated design" as a potential barrier, they still praise its "stellar presentation" and "excellent value." The collection is widely seen as a triumph of fan service and preservation, with Destructoid calling it a "masterclass in remastering" and GameOver.gr noting its "overwhelmingly positive" reception. Ultimately, the reviews reflect a shared appreciation for the project’s dedication to honoring the original games while offering enough modernization to justify its release.

TL;DR

A love letter to 90s RTS glory, Command & Conquer Remastered Collection nails nostalgia with faithful gameplay, modern polish, and community perks—though its outdated mechanics and steep learning curve alienate newcomers, making it a triumph for fans but a relic for the uninitiated.

MONSTER

Reviews

79 reviews found

100

VG247

Jun 5, 2020