End of Nations Hands-On Preview for PC

System: PC
Dev: Petroglyph Games
Pub: Trion Worlds
Release: 2012
Players: 1-56
Screen Resolution: 480p-1080p	Mild Suggestive Themes, Mild Violence

Now, as every studio supporting the microtransaction store feels obligated to point out, End of Nations is being specifically referred to as "not pay-to-win." Basically, if you plop down real-world money, you can expect to get access to "convenience and cosmetic" items rather than, say, a game-changing nuke or any such thing.

End of Nations Screenshot

The "convenience" items are things like minor modifications, a 3% damage boost for example. However, even those who spend money on them will have to earn them, and players who want to keep playing for free can still purchase most of them through the in-game economy.

The "cosmetic" items that I was shown were exactly what they sound like. Do you want to build an army of bookworm-ish librarian types? Well, you might want to purchase the Argyle skin pack. If you prefer things like "Epic Meal Time" to books, though, the Bacon skin pack might suit your needs a bit better. And really, who doesn't want to commandeer an army of bacon-patterned tanks?

End of Nations still felt like a highly refined RTS experience, though it's obvious that a lot of fresh ideas have been implemented since the last time I played it. If you simply can't wait for the game's full release later this year, you should probably sign up for the closed beta, which is going on right now.

By
Josh Wirtanen
Editor / News Director
Date: August 23, 2012

Game Features:

To the Power of Many - Massive co-op and head-to-head battles with up to 56 players in a conflict that spans the globe.

Persistent Global War - Every battle fought, every victory won affects the fragile hold of power in an ever evolving conflict.

The Perfect Strategy - Choose your specialty and build the army you want with special units, abilities, modifications, superweapons, and cosmetic options. Think fast on your feet in the heat of battle and even swap out your company on the fly! Play in ways you never have before in an RTS!

Early Access Granted - Establish your dominance before the Open Beta phase and carry over your characters and achievements!