The Command and Conquer series has been a staple of the real-time strategy (RTS) genre for decades, with a loyal fan base that spans the globe. In recent years, there has been a growing demand for remastered versions of classic games, and Electronic Arts (EA) has answered the call with the release of Command and Conquer Remastered. But does this remastered collection include one of the most beloved games in the series: Red Alert 2?
A Brief History of Command and Conquer
Before we dive into the details of the remastered collection, let’s take a brief look at the history of the Command and Conquer series. The first game in the series was released in 1995 and was developed by Westwood Studios. The game was a groundbreaking RTS that introduced many of the gameplay mechanics that would become standard in the genre.
Over the years, the series has grown to include numerous sequels, expansions, and spin-offs, including the popular Red Alert series. Red Alert 2, which was released in 2000, is widely considered one of the best games in the series, and its absence from the remastered collection would be deeply felt by fans.
What is Command and Conquer Remastered?
Command and Conquer Remastered is a collection of remastered classic games in the Command and Conquer series. The collection includes the original Command and Conquer, as well as its expansion pack, The Covert Operations. Additionally, the collection includes Red Alert, the first game in the Red Alert series, and its expansion packs, Counterstrike and The Aftermath.
But what about Red Alert 2? Unfortunately, Red Alert 2 is not included in the initial release of the remastered collection. However, EA has announced plans to release additional content, including Red Alert 2, in the future.
Why Was Red Alert 2 Not Included in the Initial Release?
So, why was Red Alert 2 not included in the initial release of the remastered collection? According to EA, the decision was made to focus on the original Command and Conquer and Red Alert games, which are considered the foundation of the series.
In an interview with GameSpot, Jim Vessella, the producer of Command and Conquer Remastered, explained that the team wanted to focus on the games that started the series, and that Red Alert 2 would be released as part of a future update.
“We wanted to focus on the games that started the series, and that’s why we’re starting with the original Command and Conquer and Red Alert,” Vessella said. “We’re going to be releasing additional content, including Red Alert 2, in the future.”
What Can Fans Expect from the Remastered Collection?
While the absence of Red Alert 2 from the initial release may be disappointing to some fans, the remastered collection still offers a lot of value. The collection includes the original games, remastered in 4K resolution, with improved graphics and sound.
In addition to the improved graphics and sound, the remastered collection also includes a number of new features, including:
- Multiplayer support: The remastered collection includes multiplayer support, allowing fans to play against each other online.
- Mod support: The collection also includes mod support, allowing fans to create and share their own custom maps and game modes.
- Revised UI: The collection includes a revised user interface, making it easier for new players to jump into the game.
Remastered Graphics and Sound
One of the most notable features of the remastered collection is the improved graphics and sound. The games have been remastered in 4K resolution, with improved textures and lighting.
The sound design has also been improved, with remastered sound effects and music. The collection includes the original soundtracks, remastered in high definition.
Comparison of Original and Remastered Graphics
| Game | Original Graphics | Remastered Graphics |
|---|---|---|
| Command and Conquer | 640×480 resolution, 16-bit color | 3840×2160 resolution, 32-bit color |
| Red Alert | 640×480 resolution, 16-bit color | 3840×2160 resolution, 32-bit color |
Conclusion
While the absence of Red Alert 2 from the initial release of the remastered collection may be disappointing to some fans, the collection still offers a lot of value. The improved graphics and sound, combined with the new features, make the remastered collection a must-have for any Command and Conquer fan.
And while we may have to wait a little longer for Red Alert 2, EA’s commitment to releasing additional content in the future is a promising sign. With the remastered collection, EA has shown that they are dedicated to preserving the legacy of the Command and Conquer series, and we can’t wait to see what the future holds.
Final Thoughts
The Command and Conquer Remastered collection is a must-have for any fan of the series. With its improved graphics and sound, combined with the new features, it’s a great way to experience the classic games in a whole new way.
And while the absence of Red Alert 2 may be disappointing, we’re excited to see what the future holds for the series. With EA’s commitment to releasing additional content, we’re confident that the remastered collection will continue to grow and evolve over time.
So, if you’re a fan of the Command and Conquer series, or just looking for a great RTS game, be sure to check out the remastered collection. It’s a great way to experience the classic games in a whole new way, and we’re sure you won’t be disappointed.
What is Command and Conquer Remastered?
Command and Conquer Remastered is a remastered collection of the classic real-time strategy games Command & Conquer: Tiberian Dawn and Command & Conquer: Red Alert. The remastered collection was released in 2020 to celebrate the 25th anniversary of the Command & Conquer franchise. It features updated graphics, soundtracks, and gameplay mechanics while maintaining the original charm and feel of the classic games.
The remastered collection was developed by Petroglyph Games, a studio founded by Westwood Studios veterans, and published by Electronic Arts. The game was released on PC via Origin and Steam, and it has received positive reviews from critics and fans alike for its faithfulness to the original games and its improved graphics and sound design.
Does Command and Conquer Remastered include Red Alert 2?
No, Command and Conquer Remastered does not include Red Alert 2. The remastered collection only includes the original Command & Conquer: Tiberian Dawn and Command & Conquer: Red Alert, along with their expansion packs. Red Alert 2 is a separate game in the Command & Conquer franchise, and it has not been included in the remastered collection.
However, there have been rumors and fan requests for a potential remaster of Red Alert 2, but nothing has been officially announced by Electronic Arts or Petroglyph Games. Fans of the game can still play the original Red Alert 2, but they may have to wait for a potential remaster or re-release in the future.
What are the system requirements for Command and Conquer Remastered?
The system requirements for Command and Conquer Remastered are relatively modest, making it accessible to a wide range of PC gamers. The minimum system requirements include a 64-bit operating system, a dual-core processor, 8 GB of RAM, and a graphics card with at least 2 GB of VRAM.
The recommended system requirements are slightly higher, including a quad-core processor, 16 GB of RAM, and a graphics card with at least 4 GB of VRAM. The game also requires a stable internet connection for online multiplayer and cloud saving.
Can I play Command and Conquer Remastered on console?
No, Command and Conquer Remastered is currently only available on PC via Origin and Steam. There has been no official announcement from Electronic Arts or Petroglyph Games regarding a potential console release.
However, the game’s developers have expressed interest in potentially releasing the game on consoles in the future, but nothing has been confirmed. Fans of the game who want to play it on console may have to wait for a potential port or re-release.
Is Command and Conquer Remastered a remake or a remaster?
Command and Conquer Remastered is a remaster, not a remake. The game’s developers, Petroglyph Games, have stated that they aimed to preserve the original gameplay and feel of the classic games while updating the graphics and sound design.
The remastered collection includes the original games’ campaigns, multiplayer modes, and gameplay mechanics, but with improved graphics, sound effects, and music. The game’s developers have also included some quality-of-life features and bug fixes to improve the overall gaming experience.
Can I play Command and Conquer Remastered with friends online?
Yes, Command and Conquer Remastered includes online multiplayer features that allow players to compete against each other in real-time strategy battles. The game’s online multiplayer mode supports up to 8 players in a single match, and players can choose from a variety of game modes, including skirmish and ladder matches.
The game’s online multiplayer mode also includes features such as matchmaking, leaderboards, and cloud saving, making it easy for players to find and play against each other. However, players will need a stable internet connection to play online multiplayer.
Is Command and Conquer Remastered worth playing?
Yes, Command and Conquer Remastered is worth playing, especially for fans of the classic games. The remastered collection offers a nostalgic gaming experience with updated graphics and sound design, making it a great way to relive childhood memories or introduce new players to the franchise.
The game’s faithfulness to the original games and its improved graphics and sound design make it a great option for fans of real-time strategy games. However, players who are new to the franchise may find the gameplay mechanics and graphics to be somewhat dated compared to modern games.