Desert Rats vs. Afrika Korps Preview

Although it may not appear so at first glance, Desert Rats vs. Afrika Korps actually boasts some solid visuals. During our time with the game we saw a variety of lifelike unit models, all of which were supplemented with plenty of details and polys. In addition to that, every unit, structure, or background object, is well-animated and was provided with precisely drawn out real-time shadows (which change according to the position of the sun). Thanks to these details the game assumes a bona-fide atmosphere worthy of today's PC visual standards.

We must defend this road at all costs!

I doubt anyone will leave this spot in one piece.

Objects and buildings are susceptible to damage, while troops can be run over with tanks and trucks. The sand is also an important aspect of the game's overall visual quality. Once that blazing sun hits the sky, its glare will change the color of the sand, making it more radiant as midday draws near. On top of that, your units will sometimes have to fight their way through intense sandstorms... which look really cool. There's an epic feel to the whole atmosphere when massive armies start gathering on the battlefield. To enjoy such an ambiance properly, the developers incorporated a freely moveable camera, making it easy for players to witness the action from any angle they wish - from bird's eye perspective to close range. Just don't use this feature during gameplay too much. The terrain is also modifiable, allowing you to mow down palm trees with your tanks and roll across barb-wire fences. We were also able to blow up buildings and various structures throughout the missions.

Alongside the single-player campaigns, players can check out the game's multiplayer features. Desert Rats vs. Afrika Korps supports 4-player matches, which can be experienced in 3 different modes. As you'd expect it, you'll be able to play in standard modes such as Conquer Mode and DeathMatch, but next to that, players will also be able to enjoy the so-called Tobruk-To-El-Alamein mode, that is somewhat unique to this game. This match issues a conflict between two forces where one acts as a defender while the other is required to attack and conquer. The defender is left to repel off attacks until reinforcements arrive, at which time the attacker should consider fortifying his positions. Tables will turn in due course, and the attacker must do his best to ward off any assault forces, keeping their HQ safe before reinforcements arrive. This seems like an interesting concept that could hopefully institute a rather promising outline for future multiplayer RTS gaming.

Expanding on the concept of real-time combat and classic WWII warfare, Desert Rats vs. Afrika Korps also features a 60-minute soundtrack, composed by Ervin Nagy and BAFTA Award winner, Tamas Kreiner. The whole project is in the hands of what seem like competent and creative team of game designers. So, there you have it. Keep an eye out for this one some time in March 2004. If you want to sample the game right now, we invite you do download the 166 MB playable demo over at AT Files. Enjoy!