Metacritic Score: 81 (PC) The Verdict: It's been too damn long since we've had a proper, fully-fledged Homeworld game, and here it is. This prequel to the 1999 original retains the nuanced writing and water-tight gameplay that made it such a hit in the first place, presenting a wealth of warfare options while never seeming cluttered enough that newbies will struggle to get to grips with its flash new RTS sheen. Whether you're throwing down in the lengthy campaign or the fiendishly addictive multiplayer, Deserts of Kharak is a pitch-perfect example of something that veers away from what came before in several distinct ways, but is no less effective as long as franchise fans are prepared to be open-minded. It won't please everyone, but in a genre that's feeling increasingly beleaguered, this is a sure breath of fresh air.
Stay at home dad who spends as much time teaching his kids the merits of Martin Scorsese as possible (against the missus' wishes).
General video game, TV and film nut. Occasional sports fan. Full time loon.
