"Alpha Centauri" Firaxis Software Reviewed by Bagpipe o v e r v i e w In many ways Alpha Centauri is a repackaging of the addictive turn-based strategy game Civilization II. Like it's predecessor, Alpha Centauri offers addictive gameplay, acceptably challenging AI opponents, good multiplayer capabilities, and a map editor to make your own scenarios. The setting has been relocated to another planet in a solar system not far from our own, and you are one of seven colonial factions fighting for control of the planet. however, there a number of improvements to the original game that make Alpha Centauri worthwhile. One new feature that stands out is the design workshop which allows you to customize your own unit types. Controlling chassis type, armor, weaponry, and special abilities, you can design your own units, and you can also upgrade units as new technological advances allow. Another improvement is the new combat system. As in Civ II, each unit has a status bar and must take a number of hits before it is destroyed. In Alpha Centauri, however, if a unit in a stack is destroyed the other units will suffer collateral damage but will not be automatically destroyed. This fixes an annoyingly unrealistic problem in Civ II. Most significant is the new morale system, so that units may attain several levels of experience rather than just normal and veteran. s t r a t e g y The keys to succeeding in Alpha Centauri, just as in Civ II, are the control of resources and technological advancements. However, one must also be careful in choosing when to use violence. There are more diplomatic alternatives in Alpha Centauri which can provide strategic advantages. The factions are very different in both style and substance, so it helps for players to adapt to their faction's strengths and weaknesses. s u m m a r y Alpha Centauri has good graphics and sound, but nothing innovative. What makes this is a great game is what's under the surface: there is a lot of detail and complexity that make this an addictive and thought-provoking strategy game. This is a good demonstration that the qualities that make a great game are good visual and conceptual design and a good story. Alpha Centauri has these qualities. Official Game site Screen Shots Click to enlarge