As someone who grew up on Command & Conquer, especially Generals, Tempest Rising hit all the right notes. My sixth form years were filled with multiplayer sessions, hammering out GLA rushes and USA Air Force cheese with friends. That legacy is hardwired into how I enjoy RTS games—and this one absolutely channels that spirit.
From the moment I jumped in, the C&C influence was clear: base building felt snappy, unit micro was rewarding, and the pacing struck a great balance between tactical play and explosive chaos. There are unmistakable nods to Generals in the art direction and faction design, which made me feel right at home.
What really impressed me was the balance. Every mission felt fair, with multiple viable strategies and no faction clearly dominating. That’s a rare feat in a modern RTS, and it made my ~30 hours with the game feel consistently rewarding. I’ll definitely be jumping back in to chase some achievements.
The only real disappointment? Not being able to play as the Veti. They’re dripping with style and potential and wrapped in mystery, and I’m really hoping an expansion lets us take command.
For RTS fans—especially C&C veterans—Tempest Rising is more than just a throwback. It’s a confident step forward.