Homeworld 3 Review: Long-Awaited Sci-Fi Sequel Leaves Much to Be Desired.
Homeworld 3: The Long-Awaited Return
It has been over two decades since fans last encountered a primary installment in the Homeworld series, excluding the remasters in 2015 and Deserts of Kharak in 2016. However, the anticipation finally ends with the impending launch of Homeworld 3. This latest addition to the sci-fi real-time strategy (RTS) genre from Blackbird Interactive assures players of exhilarating space skirmishes, placing them at the helm of a fleet of spacecraft.
Taking place a century after the events of its predecessor, Homeworld 3 promises a blend of familiarity and innovation. While offering enhancements in graphics and camera controls to captivate contemporary audiences, it also preserves elements and mechanics cherished by series veterans. Unfortunately, despite its potential, numerous issues mar what could have been a remarkable comeback to its dynamic universe.
Transitioning from History to Legend
Homeworld 3 follows the saga of the Hiigarans, led by Karan S’jet, who reclaimed their planet amidst conflicts with oppressive empires. A century later, Karan’s legacy has become myth, and her successor, Imogen S’jet, assumes the mantle to guide the Khar-Kushan fleet as its navigator. This sets the stage for the game’s campaign, which introduces the menace of the Anomaly, causing disruptions across the galaxy and giving rise to the Incarnate faction.
A Mixed Bag of Gameplay
While the narrative may falter, Homeworld 3 shines in its real-time strategy gameplay. Players command a Mothership, the Khar-Kushan, capable of constructing various spacecraft. The gameplay involves strategic unit deployment, akin to a game of Rock, Paper, Scissors, emphasizing exploiting tactical advantages and flanking maneuvers. The single-player campaign spans 13 missions across the galaxy, emphasizing fleet management and protecting the Mothership.
Despite its potential, Homeworld 3 misses opportunities for innovation, particularly in unit progression and pacing. The lack of depth in unit customization and the campaign’s uneven tempo leave much to be desired.
Technical Triumphs and Tribulations
Visually stunning, Homeworld 3 boasts breathtaking battles and locales, complemented by modern camera controls and a streamlined user interface. However, technical issues plague the experience, ranging from erratic unit controls to inconsistent AI behavior and pathfinding problems. These issues detract from the immersive sci-fi spectacle the game aims to deliver.
War Games and Multiplayer
In addition to the campaign, Homeworld 3 offers multiplayer modes, including Skirmish and War Games. War Games combines RTS missions with roguelike mechanics, albeit marred by bugs and connectivity issues, hindering the overall multiplayer experience.
Final Verdict
Homeworld 3 captivates with its visuals and space warfare but falls short in narrative depth and technical execution. While offering glimpses of brilliance, it fails to deliver a seamless gaming experience, leaving fans with a sense of disappointment after years of anticipation.