Stormgate offers a promising take on the classic RTS genre, even in its Early Access phase. There’s a unique thrill in the moments before a ranked match begins—the rush of seeing your name and your opponent’s, the heartbeat, and the deep breath before diving into battle. Despite its more modest budget compared to Blizzard’s RTS titles, Stormgate makes noteworthy strides in the genre, both in subtle and more pronounced ways.
Developed by former Blizzard RTS veterans, Stormgate evokes the feel and rhythm of classic Blizzard strategy games. It captures the nostalgic essence of games like Brood War and Warcraft 3, with its familiar base-building and strategic gameplay. Commands are issued, upgrades are timed perfectly, and the mental coordination required is reminiscent of a well-tuned musical performance. Developer Frost Giant clearly understands the appeal of this classic gameplay style.
Beyond the nostalgia, Stormgate brings thoughtful innovations to the table. It is not merely a reiteration of StarCraft but a meaningful evolution. The game comfortably navigates between the styles of StarCraft 2 and Warcraft 3, though it leans more towards the former in skirmish and PvP modes due to the absence of heroes. Yet, like Warcraft 3, Stormgate includes creep camps—neutral creatures that offer valuable buffs when defeated. This addition enhances strategic depth, making map control and positioning more critical.
The inclusion of creep camps adds complexity and encourages more frequent mid-map engagements, as players vie for control of these advantageous locations. This dynamic makes for more varied battles and lessens the prevalence of base harassment, offering a more balanced experience.
However, Stormgate’s PvP balance remains a work in progress. Recent patches have addressed some balance issues with significant adjustments, reflecting the typical challenges of an Early Access RTS. Expect some uneven match-ups and ongoing adjustments as the developers refine the game.
Overall, Stormgate offers a refreshing blend of classic RTS elements with new twists, positioning itself as an exciting prospect for fans of the genre.
