1996 · Bullfrog Productions · Real-time strategy · Strategy

Genewars

Once the inhabitants of Planet Earth finally got it together enough space travel-wise to explore outside the solar system, they discovered that there were three other races doing exactly the same: the sneaky, reptilian Saurians, the understandably uptight, nasally gifted Schnozzoids, and the curiously laid-back Bohemians. Each of these races being just as self-important, aggressive (except for the Bohemians) and intolerant as the Earthlings, it wasn't long before an intergalactic pagga of quite exceptional proportions kicked off.

Released: 30 September 1996
Platforms: MS-DOS Windows
Genres: Real-time strategy Strategy
Developers: Bullfrog Productions
Publishers: Electronic Arts
Modes: Single-player
Perspective: Bird view / Isometric
Themes: Action Science fiction Comedy
Engine: Magic Carpet
Country: United Kingdom
Age ratings: ESRB T
Composers: Russell Shaw

About

Genewars is a 1996 real-time strategy video game for MS-DOS. The game includes terrain editing and cross-species breeding.

Keywords

aliens
farming
base building
single-player only
resource gathering
alien abduction

Media

The articlegameplay, story, development, reception

Gameplay

Players move through a series of worlds using a small number of sentient humanoids to build small bases and to stun, kill, research, and ultimately breed a variety of animals. Plants are also important, as different plants can be grown and harvested for different purposes. Players must use the various plant and animal species available to them (as well as hybrid animals) to deal with different environments, enemies, and tasks. For instance, a crab is a good armored defender, while a mule is a perfect detritus transporter.

The two can be bred to form a creature that is well armored, but also suited to mule work. The more a particular species has been studied and created, the more effective future individuals will be.