Endless Space, from Amplitude Studios, is the first game to apply the games2gether format. It means that “You” have a part in it's development, artistic direction, & content. Does a fans touch in this “theater in space” offer us an endless amount of replayability? We shall see.
Presentation:
The opening cinematic does enough to introduce you to the galactic struggle for Dust, the remains of a once powerful civilization called the Endless. When you choose a race, you get a cut-scene explaining your races unquenchable need for knowledge, power, exploration, money...to be obtained through whatever means necessary.
The rest of the story is up to you. Starting a new game feels like setting up a mutiplayer map...or maybe that's what it is. You have selections for the shape, size, and age of the galaxy, as well as advanced options. There are nine races to choose from and set as Ai, and the 7 difficulties tell you just how challenging they think they are.
Endless Space does a wonderful job with a clean interface and tools that help with micromanagement. The problem is, you must investigate each menu and sub-menu thoroughly to become acquainted with the functions. While this isn't a bad thing, I had to slow myself down to read and learn the game. The tutorial screens were a bit like reading a manual.
It took a full hour to finally feel comfortable with the layout and another hour to familiarize myself with different tech researches and planet benefits. What they mean, and what they do for me.
This is where Endless Space really shines. There is an amazing amount of research to be completed and the tech tree spans four different directions: diplomacy, exploration, warfare, and science. There are also planet exploitations, and special archeological discoveries that can vastly improve or hurt your empire.
Gameplay:
The galaxy is a hostile place and your going to need specific researches early on to give you an advantage over your enemies.
The ships look great as you send them off into glorious battle. My Starcraft instincts want me to left click select, but I can't. Battles are purely schematic and you select cards that give you a bonus against the enemy.
The best analogy is Ro Sham Bo, aka Rock Paper Scissors, but in this case you have your rock, paper, scissors, pointer finger, loop, Vulcan sign for prosper, and a weird face. What I mean to say is, there are more options. Using the right card will give you a significant advantage over the enemy.
Even when outnumbered, you can still prevail with a little luck and insight into what card the enemy may use against you.
The games greatest appeal comes with drop in & drop out mutiplayer. Matches can last a long time, and for this reason, I'd recommend sticking to mutiplayer. It's much more satisfying conquering the galaxy with a friend. I had an instance where a neighboring ally watched my kingdom crumble from the relentless attacks of the Craver empire. A friend would have come to my aid.
Closing Comments:
Endless space brings a polished experience with it's customization, strategy, and space exploration. On a negative side, sometimes I felt I was watching more than playing. Waiting for something to build, or watching another battle scene. These issues went away with my multiplayer coop match. Endless Space is a perfect excuse to spend an evening with friends.
Rating | Description
9 - Presentation
It makes you want to explore every inch of a galaxy you create. The interface is welcoming and there is very little hidden from view.
8 - Graphics
The turned based strategy doesn't call for 60 frames a second, but it doesn't take much hardware to get it with impressive visuals.
7 - Sound
Sounds effects are great. When the music's there, it's good.
7 - Gameplay
The Ai will cremate you if your not quick to research the right tech. I like it tough. Many fun evenings with friends, but not much satisfaction after a long game against AI.
7 - Lasting Appeal
The support for mods will extend replay value well into the future. Can we get 20+ hours of play before we need them?
7.2 - Overall
The overall score is not an average, but it does reflect how much we enjoyed the game. Games between the score of 7 - 9 are favorable. Games that get a rating of 9.0 are a must buy.
