This review covers the single-player campaign of Homeworld 3. For thoughts on the multiplayer skirmish and War Games co-op mode, see the Homeworld 3 Multiplayer review.
Homeworld 2 dates back over 20 years, yet Homeworld 3 manages to bring the classic space strategy gameplay to modern standards without sacrificing complexity. Commanding an armada of strike craft, frigates, and capital ships in full 3D space may be challenging for RTS novices, but the ability to pause and give orders at any time allows players to ease into their role as an admiral. The payoff is rewarding, with the campaign inviting players to embrace strategic challenges and come out victorious.
Plot and Characters
The storyline of Homeworld 3 follows the journey of Imogen S’jet as she searches for answers about the disappearance of the original protagonist, Karan S’jet, two decades prior. Despite the familiar trope of a new character seeking out the old hero, Imogen’s quest is filled with emotional depth and compelling conflicts, especially as she faces a new threat to Hiigara and the galaxy. The interactions and dynamics between characters add a human touch to the epic space opera unfolding.
Character Dynamics
Imogen S’jet shines as the protagonist, with fully animated cinematics bringing her character to life in a way that surpasses her predecessor, Karan S’jet. The antagonist, The Queen, delivers a menacing performance tinged with tragic undertones, though at times her motivations feel cliché. While the characters resonate emotionally, the overarching story can occasionally get lost in the vast lore of the space universe.
Homeworld 3 Gameplay Screenshots
The real charm of Homeworld 3 lies in the grand battles that unfold in deep space, as players command fleets of starships with intricate formations and behavior stances. The spectacle of capital ships exchanging fire and fighter crafts weaving through the chaos creates a visually stunning experience that never loses its appeal. While strategic planning and ship management are key to success, there’s also the joy of sitting back, watching the battles unfold without the clutter of the interface.
Campaign Missions
Homeworld 3’s campaign missions offer a diverse range of objectives set in visually striking environments. Navigating through ancient alien ruins and facing off against formidable foes keeps the gameplay engaging. The reduced scope of maps minimizes downtime, allowing for more focused and intense gameplay experiences.
Controls and Gameplay Mechanics
The controls in Homeworld 3 may feel challenging at first, given the extra axis of movement compared to traditional RTS games. However, the ability to pause and customize the UI alleviates some of the complexities of commanding a fleet in space. While ship behavior can be unreliable at times, the pause function provides a respite for strategic adjustments.
Ship Management and Replay Value
In Homeworld 3, players will find a simplified approach to ship management compared to its predecessor. The absence of certain mechanics like subsystem targeting and veterancy may leave some craving for more strategic depth. While the campaign offers variety in settings and objectives, the lack of optional objectives and ship upgrades limits replayability.
Despite these limitations, the dynamic battles, immersive environments, and engaging storyline make Homeworld 3 a worthy addition to the franchise, offering a blend of nostalgia and modern gameplay elements for space strategy enthusiasts.