Summary
- Release Year: 2014
- Genres: Simulator, Strategy
- Platforms: Linux, Mac, PC (Microsoft Windows)
- Developers: Slitherine Ltd.
- Publishers: Proxy Studios
Pandora: First Contact: A Deep Dive into the 4X Strategy Masterpiece
Introduction
Pandora: First Contact is a science fiction 4X turn-based strategy game on a planetary scale, released in 2014. Developed by Proxy Studios and published by Paradox Interactive, the game takes place on the titular planet of Pandora, where players control one of several factions vying for control of the planet’s resources and the secrets it holds.
Gameplay
Pandora: First Contact is a 4X strategy game, which means that players must explore, expand, exploit, and exterminate their opponents in order to achieve victory. The game takes place on a procedurally generated map of Pandora, which is divided into hexagonal tiles. Each tile can contain a variety of terrain features, such as mountains, forests, deserts, and oceans.
Players control one of several factions, each with its own unique strengths and weaknesses. The factions are:
- The United Earth Federation: A human faction that is technologically advanced and has a strong military.
- The Messari Hegemony: An alien faction that is highly intelligent and has a powerful psionic army.
- The Sakkra Matriarchy: An alien faction that is physically powerful and has a strong affinity for nature.
- The Forgotten: A faction of mutated humans who are immune to the planet’s ion storms.
Players begin the game by establishing a colony on Pandora. From there, they can explore the planet, expand their territory, exploit its resources, and build up their military. Players can also research new technologies, which will give them access to new units, buildings, and abilities.
Combat in Pandora: First Contact is turn-based and takes place on a hexagonal grid. Each unit has its own strengths and weaknesses, and players must carefully consider their positioning and tactics in order to achieve victory.
Story
The story of Pandora: First Contact takes place in the year 2254. The planet of Pandora has been discovered to be rich in a valuable mineral called Pandorite. However, the planet is also home to the Messari, an ancient alien race that has been dormant for centuries.
When the Messari awaken, they are angered by the presence of humans on Pandora. They deploy portals across the planet, unleashing ion storms and hordes of alien creatures. The human factions must band together to defeat the Messari and save Pandora from destruction.
Features
- Planetary-scale gameplay: Pandora: First Contact takes place on a procedurally generated map of Pandora, which is divided into hexagonal tiles. Each tile can contain a variety of terrain features, such as mountains, forests, deserts, and oceans.
- 4X gameplay: Players must explore, expand, exploit, and exterminate their opponents in order to achieve victory.
- Multiple factions: Players can choose to play as one of several factions, each with its own unique strengths and weaknesses.
- Deep and engaging story: The story of Pandora: First Contact is rich and engaging, with multiple endings depending on the player’s choices.
- Beautiful graphics: The game’s graphics are beautiful and detailed, bringing the planet of Pandora to life.
Critical Reception
Pandora: First Contact received critical acclaim upon its release. The game was praised for its deep and engaging gameplay, its beautiful graphics, and its rich and engaging story. The game was also nominated for several awards, including the Golden Joystick Award for Best Strategy Game.
Conclusion
Pandora: First Contact is a masterpiece of 4X strategy gaming. Its planetary-scale gameplay, diverse factions, and gripping story will keep you hooked for hours on end. If you’re a fan of 4X strategy games, then you owe it to yourself to check out Pandora: First Contact.
Review Score
8.5/10
Art
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