Carrier Command 2
" Innovative naval RTS with immersive carrier control and tactical depth but weak AI and slow pacing "
Carrier Command 2 Review
Carrier Command 2 is a unique naval combined arms RTS that offers players a blend of strategic command and first-person control on a detailed aircraft carrier. The game excels in providing a complex yet approachable experience, allowing players to manage air, sea, and ground units with a focus on teamwork and tactical depth. Its bridge design and combined roles are praised for balancing realism and usability, making it accessible without requiring extensive simulation knowledge.
However, the game struggles with certain shortcomings. Single-player can feel overwhelming due to the steep learning curve and some unintuitive mechanics. Multiplayer servers are often empty, limiting online play, and LAN or local multiplayer options are requested by the community. Additionally, some AI behaviors and game pacing issues, like slow travel and waiting times, detract from the overall experience. Despite these flaws, Carrier Command 2 is considered a niche gem with high replayability and rewarding gameplay, especially when played with friends.
Highlights
Players appreciate the game's innovative gameplay mechanics, such as commanding multiple vehicle types and firing weapons across units, which creates epic combat moments. The detailed carrier environment and immersive bridge controls add to the atmosphere. The strategic depth and combined arms approach are frequently praised, along with the game's ambitious attempt to fill a gap in naval warfare games. Multiplayer sessions with friends are highlighted as particularly enjoyable, and the soundtrack and overall atmosphere contribute positively to the experience.
Criticisms
Common criticisms include the lack of active multiplayer servers and limited LAN or local multiplayer support. The single-player mode can be overwhelming and confusing for newcomers. Some UI elements, like the inventory system, are considered frustrating and unintuitive. AI performance, especially for ground units, is often described as lacking. Slow vehicle speeds and waiting times reduce pacing, and the VR mode is reported as poor quality. Additionally, the game could benefit from more configuration options, persistent campaign modes, and a better balance between casual and hardcore players.
Pros
- • Unique naval combined arms gameplay that blends RTS and first-person control.
- • Immersive detailed aircraft carrier environment with walkable interiors.
- • Epic moments firing weapons from one vehicle to another across distances.
- • High replayability with tactical depth and combined roles.
- • Very fun and rewarding multiplayer experience with friends.
- • Accessible bridge design balancing complexity and usability.
- • Atmospheric music and engaging strategic gameplay.
Cons
- • Multiplayer servers are often empty, limiting online play.
- • No LAN or local multiplayer options, frustrating for friends.
- • Single-player mode has a steep learning curve and can overwhelm.
- • Inventory UI and icon-based systems are unintuitive and frustrating.
- • AI for ground units is weak and requires player management.
- • Slow vehicle speeds and waiting times reduce game pacing.
- • VR mode is poorly implemented and nearly unplayable.
Rating Criteria
Carrier Command 2 is the real-time strategy game that puts you in command of a futuristic carrier capable of deploying a vast array of aircraft and amphibious units. Compete against AI or human players and hop into every single vehicle to take matters into your own hands!