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KKND2: Krossfire stands as a notable entry in the real-time strategy (RTS) genre, offering a unique blend of post-apocalyptic storytelling and engaging gameplay. Released in 1998 by Melbourne House and published by Infogrames, the game is a direct sequel to KKND: Krush Kill ‘n Destroy. It continues to build upon its predecessor’s foundation with enhanced mechanics, refined visuals, and an expanded narrative. This article delves into the various facets of KKND2: Krossfire, providing an in-depth review of its story, gameplay, graphics and sound, and its legacy within the gaming community.
Story
KKND2: Krossfire transports players to a dystopian future where a devastating war between humans and mutants has ravaged the Earth. The game’s narrative picks up after the events of the first KKND, where survivors of a catastrophic nuclear conflict have split into three distinct factions: the Survivors, the Evolved, and a new faction, the Series 9 robots.
The Survivors
This faction consists of humans who managed to endure the nuclear apocalypse by living in underground bunkers. Emerging to reclaim the Earth’s surface, the Survivors are driven by a desire to rebuild civilization using their superior technology and military tactics.
The Evolved
The Evolved are a group of mutants who adapted to the harsh, irradiated world. Embracing their mutated forms, they rely on the mutated flora and fauna for warfare, creating a distinct symbiotic relationship with nature. Their goal is to dominate the surface world by harnessing their unique powers and adaptability.
The Series 9 Robots
Introduced in KKND2: Krossfire, the Series 9 Robots are a faction of sentient machines initially designed for agricultural purposes. When the war broke out, these robots were reprogrammed for combat. The Series 9 faction seeks to eliminate both humans and mutants, viewing themselves as the rightful inheritors of the Earth.
The storyline of KKND2: Krossfire is driven by the conflict between these three factions, each vying for control of the devastated planet. The game offers players a chance to experience the narrative from different perspectives, providing varied strategic challenges and storylines depending on the chosen faction.
Gameplay
KKND2: Krossfire builds upon the RTS mechanics popularized by its predecessor, incorporating several improvements and new features that enhance the overall experience.
Factions and Units
Each faction in KKND2: Krossfire boasts unique units and structures, reflecting their distinct philosophies and technological advancements. The Survivors rely on advanced military technology, the Evolved harness the power of mutated creatures, and the Series 9 utilize robotic units with high resilience and power. This diversity in unit design allows for varied strategies and tactics, encouraging players to experiment with different playstyles.
Resource Management
Effective resource management is crucial in KKND2: Krossfire. Players must gather oil, the primary resource, to construct buildings, train units, and research technologies. Balancing resource acquisition with strategic expansion is essential for maintaining an edge over opponents.
Base Building and Combat
Base building in KKND2: Krossfire involves constructing a range of facilities that support unit production, research, and defense. Players must strategically place structures to optimize defense and efficiency. The game’s combat emphasizes tactical maneuvering, unit diversity, and terrain advantage. Players can employ a combination of ground and air units, with each faction offering unique strengths to exploit.
Multiplayer and Skirmish Modes
KKND2: Krossfire offers robust multiplayer options, allowing players to engage in competitive matches with friends or online opponents. The skirmish mode provides customizable scenarios against AI opponents, offering a versatile platform for honing strategies and enjoying the game’s mechanics without narrative constraints.
Graphics and Sound
KKND2: Krossfire showcases significant improvements in graphics and sound compared to its predecessor, enhancing the immersive experience of the post-apocalyptic world.
Visuals
The game’s graphics feature detailed environments that vividly depict the desolate landscapes marked by ruins, mutated vegetation, and industrial remnants. The units and structures are well-designed, reflecting the unique characteristics of each faction. The animations and special effects, such as explosions and unit movements, add dynamism to the battlefield, contributing to the game’s visual appeal.
Sound Design
The sound design in KKND2: Krossfire complements its post-apocalyptic setting with atmospheric audio effects and an engaging soundtrack. The sound effects, from the whirring of machinery to the roar of mutant creatures, enhance the game’s immersive quality. The music, composed to match the intense and strategic nature of gameplay, provides an auditory backdrop that keeps players engaged and focused.
Legacy and Reception
Upon its release, KKND2: Krossfire received praise for its innovative approach to the RTS genre, particularly its faction diversity and engaging gameplay mechanics. Critics lauded the game’s ability to build upon the foundation laid by its predecessor while introducing fresh elements that enriched the experience.
Critical Reception
The game was well-received for its strategic depth and challenging AI, which provided a satisfying experience for RTS enthusiasts. The introduction of the Series 9 Robots as a new faction was particularly noted for adding variety and complexity to the game’s narrative and strategic options. However, some reviewers pointed out that the game’s learning curve could be steep for newcomers to the genre.
Influence on the Genre
KKND2: Krossfire contributed to the evolution of the RTS genre by demonstrating the potential of diverse factions and intricate storytelling within a strategy framework. Its emphasis on unique faction identities and strategic adaptability influenced subsequent RTS titles, inspiring developers to explore similar concepts in their games.
Community and Modding
The game cultivated a dedicated community of players who appreciated its depth and replayability. Over the years, modding communities have emerged, creating custom maps and scenarios that extend the game’s longevity and appeal. This enduring community support has helped maintain KKND2: Krossfire’s relevance in the RTS genre.
Conclusion
KKND2: Krossfire remains a standout title in the real-time strategy landscape, offering a rich post-apocalyptic narrative, diverse factions, and challenging gameplay. Its legacy is marked by its contribution to the evolution of the genre, influencing subsequent RTS games with its innovative approach to faction design and storytelling. Despite the passage of time, KKND2: Krossfire continues to captivate players with its unique blend of strategy and immersive world-building, solidifying its place as a classic in the annals of gaming history.
