Stormrise

Stormrise is a real-time strategy (RTS) video game developed by Creative Assembly and published by Sega in 2009. It is notable for its innovative "vertical combat" focus and its unique "Whip Select" control system, designed to streamline gameplay on consoles.

Gameplay:

Stormrise takes place in a post-apocalyptic Earth devastated by a cataclysmic event known as "The Storm." Players command either the Echelon, a technologically advanced faction descended from those who sought shelter underground, or the Sai, a tribe of hardy survivors who adapted to the harsh surface environment. The game emphasizes tactical positioning and utilization of the environment, particularly its verticality. Players can scale buildings, navigate subterranean tunnels, and exploit elevated positions to gain an advantage.

The "Whip Select" control system allows players to quickly cycle through and issue commands to units, reducing the need for extensive cursor movement. This system divides the battlefield into zones, allowing for efficient unit management on console controllers. Combat prioritizes flanking maneuvers and exploiting unit weaknesses. Cover plays a crucial role in minimizing damage, and line-of-sight is vital for effective engagement.

Factions:

• Echelon: Possessing advanced technology such as energy weapons, robotic units, and force fields, the Echelon rely on superior firepower and technological prowess to overcome their enemies.
• Sai: Utilizing more rudimentary technology and focusing on guerrilla warfare tactics, the Sai depend on numbers, adaptability, and their intimate knowledge of the terrain to survive. They favor close-quarters combat and ambushes.

Reception:

Stormrise received mixed reviews upon release. Critics praised the innovative "Whip Select" control system and the emphasis on vertical combat. However, the game was criticized for its technical issues, including pathfinding problems, a steep learning curve, and a perceived lack of strategic depth compared to other RTS titles. Despite its innovations, Stormrise failed to achieve significant commercial success.

Legacy:

While not a major commercial success, Stormrise remains a notable entry in the RTS genre for its attempts to adapt traditional RTS mechanics to console platforms and for its unique focus on vertical combat and innovative control scheme. It represents an interesting experiment in RTS design, even if its execution was flawed.