Earth 2150 Trilogy Review

The Earth 2150 Trilogy is a collection of addictive 3-D real-time strategy titles containing the spectacular original Earth 2150: Escape from the Blue Planet and its two expansion packs The Moon Project, and Lost Souls.

3D Zooming Makes Management Easier

The 3-D elements of the game are very well done and allow you to easily zoom and rotate around the map as you do the usual RTS gaming, such as collecting resources, building up your base, training units, and destroying your foes.

Good Factions, Make Your Own Units

The three factions you can take command of are both varied in their technology and units as well as being pretty well balanced. Whether you are taking advantage of the highly advanced Lunar Corporation, the robotic forces of the United Civilized States, or the Eurasian Dynasty's 20th century based tanks and helicopters, the flexibility in strategy and research avenues allow you to play to your own style and preference. This is seen nowhere better than with the designer where you can create units as you unlock upgrades and new weapons by mix and matching various chassis with mounted equipment like cannons, machine guns, lasers, and repair mechanisms.

Protected Base

Another rather unique feature to the main campaign is the addition of a protected main base where you can build up your forces with impunity from the enemy. You can then send these forces out into the missions and conversely salvage unused resources and surviving units at the end of missions. This intriguing gameplay element puts a whole new spin on resource management and overarching campaign goals.

A Few Usability Issues

There are a few slight issues with the Earth 2150 Trilogy that could put off some players. For one while the graphics are pretty good, it can be a little difficult to differentiate between units at times, especially with some of the environmental effects like fog or snow, and this can be frustrating during heavy firefights. Also, the interface can be a little daunting to players who are new to the RTS genre even with the tutorials and tips. While this can be a little frustrating, it generally pales in comparison to the overall fun and addictive gameplay.

Conclusion - Excellent RTS

Earth 2150 Trilogy provides a rather fun and well done 3-D RTS experience. The flexibility in gameplay and controls allow you to customize your gameplay to fit your own style and preference. The various gameplay modes including the lengthy campaign, robust skirmish, and varied mutliplayer means there are hours of gameplay to be found within each of the titles contained in this trilogy.