In an exciting development for the gaming world, the highly anticipated old-school real-time strategy (RTS) game, Tempest Rising, is enlisting the talents of the renowned video game composer, Frank Klepacki. Klepacki, celebrated for his iconic work on the Command & Conquer series, some of the most beloved PC strategy games in gaming history, is known for his killer guitar riffs and masterful command of rhythm and bass. His tracks, such as “Hell March” and “Grinder,” have left an indelible mark on the history of video game music.
This revelation came as part of the Realms Deep 2023 preview event, hosted by the game’s publisher, 3D Realms. It was unveiled that Frank Klepacki would be contributing to the soundtrack of Tempest Rising, and in a featurette, he expressed his excitement, stating, “I’m very excited to be one of the composers working on Tempest Rising.” He also acknowledged the gaming community, recognizing their role in making this collaboration a reality. Klepacki’s involvement is a testament to the passion and nostalgia that the project has generated.
Tempest Rising is poised to be a true throwback to classic RTS titles like Command & Conquer and Starcraft. As per the game’s description on its Steam store page, it draws inspiration from the RTS gems of the 90s and 2000s. Tempest Rising is a base-building real-time strategy game that unfolds in a modern-day alternative history war setting. It introduces three distinct factions, each offering its unique combat and economic strategies, catering to a broad spectrum of players.
While a concrete release date remains pending, gamers eager to get a taste of Tempest Rising can access a demo version on Steam. The title is not limited to a single-player experience; it is slated to include two compelling single-player campaigns, ranked multiplayer matchmaking, skirmish games, and custom battles. This comprehensive approach ensures that players can dive into the game in a manner that suits their preferences.
In recent times, the strategy game genre has seen a shift toward 4X grand strategy titles, exemplified by games like Stellaris and Crusader Kings 3, which emphasize a broader scope and the ability to pause combat. This has led to a departure from the traditional focus on unit micromanagement. In contrast, Tempest Rising is a deliberate return to the roots of RTS gaming, preserving the time-tested mechanics that have endeared the genre to fans for decades. It’s a promising sign for enthusiasts of classic real-time strategy games eagerly awaiting the revival of this cherished gaming style.
