Modern conflicts are rarely explored in the RTS genre. Even when other genres, such as FPS, attempt to tackle these themes, they often take creative liberties to avoid referencing any specific real-world forces or powers. Games like Warno and War Game have delved into modern conflicts but tend to focus on self-contained, small-scale skirmishes. Truly epic-scale RTS games that depict present-day conflicts are uncommon—until now. ICBM Escalation, the upcoming game from SoftWarWare, releases on November 21st and offers players a grand, continent-spanning RTS set in the modern era.
ICBM Escalation puts players in control of a global power amidst a power struggle for the very future of the earth. Players will have control of massive armies that span the length of entire continents, composed of Air, Naval, and Land troops. These would be considered amongst conventional warfare, which will make up most of the early game and the foundation of late-game conquest. Alongside this players will be able to research new and improved technologies that will aid them in the conventional side of warfare. And also allow for the creation and deployment of tactical nukes. Bringing a whole new aspect to warfare and its lasting impact.
Now aside from the basic gameplay loop I mentioned above, ICBM Escalation also features a story-rich single-player campaign. Featuring modern conflicts such as the Korean War and also some future hypothetical scenarios that could be a possibility. Fictional scenarios aside the game also has a variety of game modes such as Standoff, Conquest, and Blitz. Each of these modes focus on a certain aspect of the game’s core systems.
Such as Standoff showing the escalation of Defcon as conventional warfare turns into an all-out nuclear war. Conquest on the other hand shows the need for methodical long-term planning and the importance of backup plans. Blitz is basically what the name implies as you will rapidly progress towards all-out nuclear warfare, staying true to its predecessor in spirit. And to tie it all up ICBM Escalation will also feature a multiplayer mode where up to 10 players can duke it out. Will this mode devolve into reaching nukes first and lobbing them at the enemy willy-nilly? Yes. Will it be fun? Absolutely. I dare say this might be one of the game’s best-selling points. But jokes aside with the way the different game mechanics synergize, strategy will be key in securing victory.
All in all, ICBM Escalation despite its simple visual style is an RTS that excels in the depth of its combat and diplomatic systems. Offering players a modern sandbox to test their military strategy and Defcon readiness. It marks a significant step forward for the series. And I can’t wait to play it when it goes live on November 21st. If you’re in the mood for a modern-day grand strategy RTS with nukes, this game is perfect for you.
