Games

Galactic Civilizations II : Endless Universe

Publisher: Kalypso Media

Platform: Reviewed on PC

Price: From 14.99

Certificate: 7+

One small step for man, one huge leap against the Empire!

Just when the world was waiting for a good space exploration game two have come along at once, 'Spore' and 'Endless Universe'.

Both offer the option to create your own civilisation, create your own empire and engineer your society, from the construction of the ships to the spiritual advancement of your people.

'Spore' is in essence the sequel to 'The Sims 2', a high budget, PR driven family title that is designed not only to excite, but to spawn a franchise that will sell add-ons for years to come. 'Endless Universe' however, is a totally different kettle of fish.

Seemingly crafted as a product of passion 'Endless Universe' is already part of a franchise, the latest add on to an ongoing tale of the 23rd century where the Terran Alliance fight the might of the dreaded Drengin Empire.

But neither the graphics or sound show the signs of million pound budgets. However both are accomplished. The presentation and depth of the game's appearance is practical and pleasing and the sound dramatic and futuristic, all in keeping with the spirit of this title.

And the gameplay is complex, a little hard to get to grips with. The controls are sensible for a turn based system. They become instinctive enough once learnt but the sheer amount of options on offer make this a challenge to begin with.

If you can place yourself in the mindset of this title this complexity will soon become a blessing as the depth of universe becomes clear in all three of the game modes - single player, the Metaverse and tournament play.

The back story here is vast and the game has a devoted following of players who add a sense of flavour that can be achieved no other way. There is so much to discover and so many ways to play each new game of 'Endless Universe' that it never grows tiring, as long as the science fiction heavy setting appeals.

What's more it's not just a case of finding the universe. Even if you sit there playing as a little, inoffensive planet the politics of the other empires would soon drag you kicking and screaming into play. Yes, this is a real sandbox environment set in space.

If the game has any downsides it's that even an indie classic benefits from a slighter higher budget and quality checking process, and that combat is not as fast and clean as could be hoped for.

But as science fiction gaming goes 'Endless Empire' really does cement 'Galactic Empires' in place as the hardcore players' title of choice. More 'Dune' than 'Star Trek: Enterprise' everything feels epic and dramatic.

If the genre appeals take time to spare an evening and check this out.