Homeworld 2

The most noticable change in Homeworld2 (in comparison with Homeworld 1 and Homeworld: Cataclysm) is the graphics. No longer are ship explosions static and predictable, or the weapons static and unrealistic, but instead are glorious and spectacular to see. The miniscule details Relic has introduced--such as vents opening and closing on ships to release gases, or the detailed shadows on the hulls--are enough to excite the senses.

Another advancement is the fluidity at which the game moves. The 360 degree camera angles revolutionized in Homeworld 1 are a bit less static in HW2, and it seems as if there is a smooth transition when rotating the view around ships. The ships also make smoother turns when flying, fire realistic looking weaponry (the flak cannon is thrilling to watch), and seem to be alive on your screen.

The sound quality in this game is wonderful as well. In full battle, every sound, every engine adjustment and cannon firing can be heard. It truly sounds like all out war with the speakers on max and a full out battle in progress.

The gameplay is another perk. While it takes a while to understand where all the controls are, a helpful tutorial is included with the game to aide in understanding all the little nooks and crannies, and how to use them. Once understood, Homeworld2 can be an experience in itself, drawing you in (easily losing track of time!) and exciting all of your senses.

Another great feature is the multiplayer mode. While the option to play one or several CPU characters on various levels of difficulty exists, the gameplay is at times tedious and a bit boring (although whenever a battle ensues, the boredom quickly vanishes :-) ). But the preferable option would be to play online with other people. It is by far the most realistic and entertaining of the two choices. Going online is simple--all you need is a modem and you're ready.

All of these prizes come with a price, though. Lower-end machines will have a tough time processing all the action scenes. While most of the features can be turned off (such as shadows, detailed explosions, etc.), Homeworld2 wouldn't be Homeworld2 without those details. I strongly advise you to check out your machine before buying it, and make sure it meets (preferably exceeding) the minimum requirements.

Homeworld2 promises to be spectacular. Buy this game; you won't regret it!

Please pay no attention to negative reviews of Homeworld 2 that are actually directed to the Homeworld expansion ...Homeworld:Cataclysm.

Homeworld was ground breaking, moving, and finely balanced for an incredible gaming experience. Nuff said... buy the first if you haven't already.

Cataclysm lacked the impact of the first but was pretty cool in its own right. I replayed one of the cataclysm missions over and over again until I could save all of the passenger ships. Cataclysm had something to be proud of also. And you know you're lying if you didn't get a giant grin every time you zapped an opponent with your beast ray online and heard their entire crew scream in agony because you knew your opponent heard the same cries on the other end. If you haven't bought cataclysm yet wait until you get bored of the first and the third (which I guarantee won't happen for a number of years)

Homeworld 2 hasn't come out yet but download the trailer (which is actually video of in game action) and you will see why I gave this game 5 stars before I have played it.

So in a couple weeks there will be three Homeworld games don't get them confused. Homeworld 2 promises to be very cool and unlike another review at amazon it IS made by Relic, the people who made the original...besides there are gonna be space marines as we know all games containing space marines are must buys.

p.s. Amazon...please remove the reviews that confuse Homeworld 2 with Homeworld Cataclysm.