Graphics

The graphics of Cataclysm have not really changed much from the original Homeworld, except for some minor texture tweaking and newer models. That is not to say that they are poor, because they are actually great, as were the graphics of Homeworld. However, since this is an "add-on" and not a full sequel, don't expect a brand new engine. What you saw in Homeworld is pretty much what you will see here. But since Homeworld looked great, that is not a problem. Each ship looks great up close, and the thruster trails left behind the moving ships really adds to the realism. In many ways the visuals reminded me very much of the Wing Commader: Prophecy graphics, with similar nebula backdrops and asteroids and such. The Cataclysm accelerated graphics engine is very smooth and I never noticed any loss of frame rate, even during the ship intensive battles (I ran Cataclysm using a TNT M64 video card, by the way…not the fastest out there). Ship and fighter weapons look good, especially the beam weapons, and explosions are also very realistic. The only thing I felt looked a bit cheesy was the smoke given off by damaged ships, which kind of looked like transparent bubbles or something. Other than that though, I am still impressed with the Homeworld engine, and Cataclysm makes good use of it.

Sound

Bearing in mind that sound does not exist in the cold vacuum of space (remember that sound requires some sort of medium such as air in which to propagate) it is reasonable to expect very little ambient sound in a game like Cataclysm. Sure enough, other than the hum of the ships, if there isn't a battle going on, there isn't much to hear. The sounds the do exist in the game are decent and fairly realistic, especially the explosions. Audible feedback is given for most elements in the game, from response to your commands, to warnings enemy engagements, to the screams of your pilots when an enemy introduces them to the vacuum. All in all, the sounds are good and elicit any complaints from anyone.

Multiplayer

Besides the rather challenging single player missions, Cataclysm also has plenty of multiplayer options. Both LAN and Internet play (via Sierra.com) is available, and you can even set up a skirmish with the computer for practice. A wide range of multiplayer options, such a different harvesting and researching modes, computer controlled players, alliances, and so on are available. Games can be played on a variety of maps with various objectives, such as capture and enemy ship or the ever-popular deathmatch. Players also have the option to play The Beast in multiplayer, which adds quite a twist. The Beast doesn't actually research any technology, but rather "absorbs" technology from captured enemy ships making for an interesting gaming experience. The Beast has very few unique ship types (only the mothership and "cruise missle"), but again is able to build any ship it first captures and absorbs. An experienced player using The Beast could be quite a challenge.

Summary

Well, like I said early on, Cataclysm is a great follow-up to Homeworld, and for good reason. More of the same intense action, the continuation of a cool story, and some great game-play all combine to make Cataclysm a winner. Some people may find it challenging due to the 3D interface and play-field, but I think most will be able to become accustomed to it and enjoy the game. The new interface is sleek, although seasoned Homeworld will have to adjust somewhat, and Cataclysm includes some much needed features, as well as some pretty cool new ships. If you haven't played Homeworld, don't worry, Cataclysm is a great place to jump in. So if you like RTS games and want to heart-pounding challenging game-play, check out Homeworld: Cataclysm, and see why the folks at Sierra are smiling.

Rating

4.5/5