Summary

Oil Rush combines strategy, economy, and naval warfare in a post-apocalyptic world, challenging players to command fleets and conquer oil rigs in a fight for survival.

• Release Year: 2012
• Genres: Indie, Real Time Strategy (RTS), Strategy
• Platforms: Linux, Mac, PC (Microsoft Windows), PlayStation 3
• Developers: Unigine Holding
• Publishers: Unigine Holding

Introduction

Dive into the watery depths of a future Earth with Oil Rush, a strategy game that blends intense naval combat with strategic resource management in a post-apocalyptic setting.

Synopsis

The game’s protagonist is Kevin, a recent graduate and serviceman who is following in his father’s footsteps. After his father’s death, Kevin is tasked by The Commander to suppress a rebel faction, The Raiders, who are attempting to seize control of the oil rigs in the army’s possession. Armed with a fleet of combat units and guided by an in-game PDA, Kevin must learn to manage his resources and forces to complete a series of objectives.

The gameplay of “Oil Rush” combines elements of strategy and tower defense. Players must defend and attack oil rigs using armed platforms to fend off enemy watercraft and other attack units. The campaign’s story puts the player in Kevin’s shoes, while multiplayer allows players to go head-to-head against friends or online opponents.

Every combat map in “Oil Rush” is dotted with nodes that specialize in automatically pumping out various types of units, such as Piranha jet skis, Stingray attack helicopters, or battleships. The more nodes a player controls, the larger their army becomes, and the faster they can replenish losses. After a match begins, players race against their opponents to control these nodes by sending out their accumulated army.

Scouting is crucial in “Oil Rush”, as it can mean the difference between capturing an empty node or flying directly into heavily defended territory. Once captured, every production platform can be fortified with five turrets, some better suited to defend air assaults and some best at knocking out heavy armor. Building turrets consumes oil, harvested through capturable rigs dotted around maps.

The game’s environmental message is clear: fuel-devouring armies fighting over the last drops of oil and polluting an already trashed world is a warning. Despite the controversy surrounding its theme, especially in the wake of the Deepwater Horizon oil spill, “Oil Rush” delivers a stark warning about the consequences of our dependence on oil.

Characters

While Oil Rush focuses on strategic gameplay rather than individual characters, players assume the role of a faction leader, guiding their fleet against rival factions and seeking dominance in the new world order.

Gameplay

Oil Rush offers a unique RTS experience with a focus on large-scale naval engagements and strategic base management. Players must balance attack and defense, invest in technology upgrades, and secure resources to sustain their operations.

Conclusion

Oil Rush marks a notable entry in the strategy genre, offering a challenging and immersive experience for those willing to navigate its complexities. Its unique setting and gameplay mechanics make it a memorable title.

Review Score

7.5/10

Art

Cover Art

Screenshots

Fan Art

Fan Art Style: Normal

Fan Art Style: Retro

Fan Art Style: Modern