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Category: Software (Games) [Strategy, 2D Space, Combat] {PC/Mac}
Producer: Ambrosia Software
License: Shareware (30 days)
Cost: $30
Get it at: {PC/Mac} http://www.ambrosiasw.com
Min Requirements: 400MHz, 32M RAM, 800x600 (runs best under 1024x768)
DL Size: ~ 80 Mb
Escape Velocity: Nova is the
third game in Ambrosia Software’s Escape Velocity series.
I downloaded the PC version of EV Nova with some anticipation: I thoroughly enjoyed EV, and EV: Override was even better. (For information about these games, visit http://www.ambrosiasw.com/.) EVN was even better than I expected.
The premise of the game goes like this. You are a freelancing (at least at first) pilot, starting out in a lowly shuttle, virtually unarmed and defenseless. This changes, however, when you begin completing missions and earning money. This money will mostly go towards improving your ship, and eventually you’ll earn enough to buy better and better ships. Early missions are simple “transport” missions: either passengers or cargo; though the latter pays better, the former takes up a smaller amount of space. The ships: some ships are faster, some are better armored, some are better armed.
There are many differences between this game and earlier incarnations of Escape Velocity. For one thing, “fuel” has been replaced by “energy”. The addition of licenses to own certain things, (e.g. Missile Weapons or Protective Tech) I believe certainly improves the gameplay (and makes being an illegal-tech-using pirate that much more interesting!) There are six main special mission strings (I personally enjoyed the Vell-os missions) which you can pick up by going to the bar, outfitter, or shipyard. The game also adds the possibility of asteroid mining (a first!) which can be fun.
The game universe is much more malleable, and even planet governments can change based on your actions. The Rebellion makes a comeback (but it can disappear later in the game, depending on what you do!). The addition of “hypergates” is an interesting extra. Graphics and sound are greatly improved, including the addition of “running lights” on ships, improved weapon detonations, and "smoke" from missile weapons.
There were some things I did not like about this game, as good as it is. The main thing is the price ($30. the same as many full featured 3D games like Prisoner of War or Dungeon Siege). A bit too much, I think. Also, the unregistered version is a bit more crippled than in previous versions. I also disliked the way that the program constantly nags you, even during gameplay. It also requires 1024x768 to run well, (a real disadvantage on a laptop!) I wasn’t able to find the Sigma Shipyards missions, either.
All in all, however, this program is really excellent. A true “must download.”
Awarded the 2003(I) Equilibrium's Choice Software Award.