MechCommander for Windows

Classic squad-based RTS game

MechCommander, developed by Microsoft Studios, is a real-time strategy game that plunges players into a futuristic world of mechanical warfare. As the commander of a squad of BattleMechs, you're tasked with leading your team through a series of increasingly challenging missions. The game offers a unique blend of strategy, action, and customization, all set against a backdrop of a richly imagined universe.

Whether you're a fan of the MechWarrior franchise or new to the world of mechs, MechCommander provides an engaging experience that keeps you on the edge of your seat. You can also try BattleTech or MechWarrior 4: Mercenaries.

Lead your mechanized squad

MechCommander boasts a variety of features that set it apart from other RTS games. The customization options are extensive, allowing you to tailor your BattleMechs with different weapons, armor, and abilities. The game also offers a robust single-player campaign, as well as multiplayer modes that let you test your mettle against other commanders. As you gain more experience, you also increase rank, unlocking more content.

The game's graphics are a bit dated but still manage to capture the essence of a futuristic battlefield. The BattleMechs are intricately designed, and the environments are diverse, ranging from urban landscapes to barren deserts. The soundtrack complements the action perfectly, with adrenaline-pumping tunes that heighten the tension during battles. For a game originally released in 1997, the soundtrack still holds up as far as robots and dogfights are concerned.

While the game offers a lot to love, it's not without its flaws. The AI can be inconsistent, sometimes providing a stiff challenge and, at other times, appearing clueless. Additionally, the game's interface feels a bit clunky, making it difficult to manage your squad effectively during high-stakes moments. The same clunkiness extends to the animation. The graphics, although charming, could use a modern update.

A retro title worth revisiting 

MechCommander is a hidden gem in the realm of real-time strategy games. Despite its shortcomings, the game offers a compelling experience that will satisfy both newcomers and veterans of the genre. Its unique blend of customization, strategy, and action makes it a title worth revisiting. If you can overlook its minor flaws, this game provides hours of mechanized mayhem that shouldn't be missed.