Lambda Wars

Since we’re all waiting for Half-Life 3 to come along and we know Valve is taking its time (you can’t rush perfection), why not try something interesting in the meantime? Here’s Lambda Wars, a Source Engine mod that takes you into the world of Half-Life 2 from an RTS point of view.

This has been in the works for a while now and so far, even though it’s still in early development, it looks just great. You get Source Engine graphics neatly packed into an RTS that pitches you in the war between the Rebels and the dreaded Combine.

Following the classic RTS gameplay blueprints, in Lambda Wars you need to build a base, upgrade your tech while creating an army, scout the enemy position and figure out an attack plan. If you were to take gameplay alone, the game doesn't seem all that interesting but be serious, this is a Half-Life inspired RTS, you can’t really go wrong with it.

If you’re a fan, you might just love the idea and the game will get you hooked pretty fast, especially since it offers plenty of maps, several game modes and best of all, the chance to challenge other HL fans from around the world. On the other hand, if you’re a hardcore fan of the HL2 universe, you will certainly encounter moments when Lambda Wars won’t really measure up.

Right now, it’s hard to say when or if Lambda Wars will evolve into a full-time RPG with all the polished perks it needs but it’s giving all the right signals. Gameplay is solid, animations are undeniably smooth, effects are great, factions seem to be pretty well balanced and after a few minutes into a game, when the first shots are fired, you can’t help but enjoy the Half-Life 2 audio with the C&C: Generals feel of it all. It just works.

In Lambda Wars you have a good deal of units to use on both sides, each with their special touches and fights between the two factions are totally enjoyable. A good deal of strategy is needed to turn the tides of a battle in your favor but after a few games, things might seem a bit repetitive and this is where the lack of more units might be felt. I mean, Dog would have been awesome to see in a fight against a strider.

On a closing note, Lambda Wars is definitely a good addition to the Half-Life universe. Give it a shot, and see what fits, what doesn’t and offer the developing team your two cents on the matter.