Rise of the Insect Empire: A Counterpart to Mother Nature
Conquer the microworld with strategic prowess and an army of ants in Empires of the Undergrowth.
Early Access Review
last updated Jan 02, 2024
It festers – in a good way – adding layers upon layers of depth to this insectile odyssey.
Gameplay Mechanics: The Ants Go Marching One by One
Empires of the Undergrowth is like a shot of adrenaline straight to the antennae, offering gamers a real-time strategic buffet that would satiate even the hungriest of myrmecologists. The pheromone-based tactics are cleverly implemented, creating a form of ant whispering that I never knew I needed. As you lead your army of ants against the perils of the underbrush, you're constantly tasked with perfecting your base-building finesse. The scale of warfare here is commendable, giving that divine overseeing power we so crave in strategy games. However, don't go in expecting an ant-size challenge – this game has teeth and isn't afraid to bite, with difficulty spikes that will test your strategic mettle and keep you coming back for more.
A Symphony of Six Legs: Audio Immersion
Every skitter and skirmish in Empires of the Undergrowth comes accompanied by a surprisingly atmospheric soundtrack that does justice to the epic tales of ant heroism. The intricate sounds of the undergrowth fill every corner of the soundscape, keeping players entranced in the micro-battles at hand. The audio work strikes a harmonious balance between an orchestra of nature and the triumphs of conquest. And let's not neglect that 'Formicarium Action Theme,' a tune that could make a snail sprint. While some might toss the score aside as just another hum in the background, it festers – in a good way – adding layers upon layers of depth to this insectile odyssey.
Through the Compound Eye: Graphics and Performance
The visual fidelity of Empires of the Undergrowth deserves a round of applause fit for the queen herself. It's a pixel-perfect parade of the ant kingdom, teeming with detailed critters that scurry across the screen with lifelike animation. The graphics do more than just paint a pretty picture; they bring the undergrowth to life, with a performance that's smoother than a silk worm's bedding. The real-time strategy elements require clarity and crispness, and this game delivers, making sure that you never miss a beat - or a bite. There’s beauty in the shadows of the blades of grass, in the gleam of a dewdrop, creating an ambiance that's engaging and delightful, even when on the battlefield.
EARLY ACCESS RATING
Developer
Slug Disco
Publisher
Hooded Horse, Slug Disco
Early Accesss Release Date
December 01, 2017
The Verdict: An Exemplar of Entomological Excellence
Empires of the Undergrowth takes players on a riveting RTS journey where terror comes in tiny packages. It's a testament to what indie developers can accomplish with a blend of passion and creativity. While the game might not be exoskeleton-smooth for everyone, with its demand for strategic prowess and patience for grindy aspects, it stands out as an exemplar of entomological excellence. For anyone who relishes both the RTS genre and the wondrous world of ants, this game is a shiny black gem to be unburied and treasured.