The modders at OpenCNC3D are bringing the real-time strategy classic back with 3D graphics for the first time.
Who even cares about Command & Conquer? Not Electronic Arts!
The publisher has put the brakes on official remasters and remakes of the legendary real-time strategy series since the Command & Conquer Remastered Collection a few years ago. Instead, more and more modders are using the source code for the classics released by EA to create their own modernizations.
To mark the 30th anniversary of C&C: Red Alert (known in Germany as Command & Conquer 2: Alarmstufe Rot), a very special fan project has now been released. It lets you experience the conflict between the Allies and the Soviets in a way that’s never been seen before: as a full-fledged strategy game with 3D graphics. You can see this in the trailer above starting at 1:15.
Behind the project is the OpenCNC3D team. What began as a modernization of the Nintendo 64 version of Command & Conquer: Tiberian Dawn has grown by 100 percent with version 0.9.0 Alpha. Under the name RA3D, the popular sequel has now also been completely reimagined using the 3D engine.
Real Polygons Instead of Flat Sprites
Instead of flat bitmaps, fully modeled tanks now roll across the battlefields. Units and buildings have received new animations.
The ore collector visibly shovels raw materials into the refinery’s hopper; Soviet V2 launchers aim their rockets and fire them in an arc, while submarines dive beneath the waves. Even details such as independently rotating gun turrets on cruisers and ramps on transport ships have been implemented.
In addition, there are dynamic light sources, reflective water surfaces, and smooth terrain transitions. Despite the visual overhaul, the mod is designed to preserve the game’s signature feel, as proportions and gameplay pace remain true to the original.
Natural-Behaving Enemy AI
The developers are particularly proud of the customized artificial intelligence of the computer opponents in Skirmish mode.
The computer thus follows the same rules as human strategists; it does not receive any unfair advantages such as infinite money or a map revealed from the start.
Instead, it explores the battlefield, withdraws damaged vehicles for repair, and counters enemy armies strategically. The difficulty can be adjusted across four levels, ranging from Easy to Expert.
In terms of content, C&C fans won’t have to miss out on anything when downloading
