In the realm of real-time strategy (RTS) games, Tempest Rising is emerging as one of the most anticipated titles of 2025, blending retro charm with cutting-edge industrial aesthetics. Co-developed by Slipgate Ironworks and 3D Realms, this ambitious project merges classic RTS gameplay with advanced technology, delivering an epic post-apocalyptic resource war set in a ravaged world.

Set in an alternate 1997, the game unfolds after a third world war triggered by the Cuban Missile Crisis escalates into a nuclear holocaust. The planet lies in ruins, and a mysterious energy source called "Storm Vines" has become the key to survival. Players choose between two story-driven campaigns:

Global Defense Force (GDF), representing Western powers with agile, tech-savvy peacekeeping forces.

Storm Dynasty, an Eastern bloc focusing on brute-force mechanized armies.

While the third faction, Veti, remains unrevealed, developers promise it will deeply influence the main plot, adding layers of intrigue to the lore.

Tempest Rising revives the essence of 90s RTS giants like Command & Conquer with its core mechanics: base-building, resource management, and tactical combat. Players expand territories, harvest Storm Vines, and deploy defenses/offenses. Asymmetric faction designs highlight strategic diversity:

GDF emphasizes traditional RTS tactics, using drones for reconnaissance, infantry raids, and tactical support. Their "Intelligence System" converts battlefield data into unit buffs.

Storm Dynasty excels in tech dominance, boasting rapid unit production and "mobile refineries" for flexible economy deployment—ideal for aggressive players.

The game supports single-player campaigns, custom skirmish modes, and competitive multiplayer (up to 4 players) with Glicko-2 ranking. Maps feature diverse terrains (deserts, snowfields), enhanced by neutral structures and AI-controlled wildlife for added strategic depth.

Slipgate Ironworks’ proprietary engine crafts a striking visual style: crumbling cities, rusted machinery, and futuristic weaponry blend into a gritty "post-nuclear industrial punk" aesthetic. Cinematic cutscenes and dynamic narrative-driven campaigns enhance immersion.

Technical optimizations ensure smooth 60 FPS gameplay on PC, even during large-scale battles. The AI adapts dynamically to player strategies, avoiding repetitive "zerg rush" tactics common in older RTS titles.

As a spiritual successor to 3D Realms’ Duke Nukem legacy, Tempest Rising pays homage to the golden era of RTS while innovating through dynamic mission branches, unit skill trees, and map events. For example, capturing enemy labs unlocks tech upgrades, while random encounters can alter battle outcomes.

Launching on April 25, 2025, the game offers:

Standard Edition: 159 RMB (PC).

Deluxe Edition: Includes digital soundtrack, artbook, and 7-day early access.

Pre-order bonuses include a customizable commander cosmetic pack.

Tempest Rising isn’t just a nostalgia-driven throwback—it’s a modern reinvention of the genre. With fluid combat, deep strategy, and meticulous art design, it bridges the gap between old-school fans and new players. As the developers put it: "This is a love letter to RTS." Whether you’re a veteran of Command & Conquer or a strategy newcomer, Tempest Rising deserves a spot on your wishlist.