The realm of real-time strategy games has been largely neglected in the virtual reality space, even though titles like Brass Tactics showcased its possibilities almost ten years ago.
In recent times, RTS games set in space, such as Homeworld: Vast Reaches, have started to gain popularity on standalone headsets. However, there remains a significant absence of ground-based strategy titles. Enter Crystal Commanders, a new mixed reality RTS game from DB Creations that debuts today on the Quest platform, with the ambition to alter this landscape by introducing an innovative immersive strategy experience.
At its essence, Crystal Commanders simplifies the RTS format while integrating real-world elements into its combat. Players begin by scanning their surroundings, with mixed reality features allowing for the use of everyday furnishings, like sofas and desks, as part of the battlefield. The intelligent incorporation of vertical elements enables troops to ascend to elevated areas, and the game seamlessly adjusts to various play spaces, providing a tangible, almost toy-like sensation during combat.
For those concerned about space limitations, the VR experience offers a generously sized, futuristic living room where players can engage in combat. This setting is applicable to all single-player modes as well as online multiplayer. Instead of relying on futuristic landscapes, the developers opted for a familiar living room environment, highlighting their intent for the gameplay to invoke memories of commanding toy armies.
The single-player campaign comprises 15 missions featuring the Crimson Blade faction, promising around two to three hours of gameplay. However, the initial handful of missions seem more like an introductory tutorial than a substantive start to the campaign, and the difficulty remains relatively easy. This lighter approach may have been a deliberate choice.
In addition to the campaign, players can also engage in AI-driven skirmish battles, experiment in a Creative mode where they can construct a base without risks, and participate in online multiplayer. Unfortunately, I encountered difficulties connecting with a friend in a different region, leaving me unable to assess the robustness of the online community or connectivity at this time—though I will continue to monitor this aspect post-launch.
There’s also a local PvP mode implemented in mixed reality. While I didn’t get the chance to test this mode ahead of the release, it could be the highlight of the experience. Two players equipped with mixed reality-compatible headsets can battle against each other, transforming their shared real-world environment into a vibrant arena. For nostalgics who pictured commanding toy troops as a child (and perhaps seeking payback on a sibling for snack-related grievances), this could be a fulfilling experience.
However, fans of traditional real-time strategy games should heed caution—Crystal Commanders adopts a more simplistic style than what some may anticipate. If you’re expecting the intricacies of Command & Conquer, you might need to adjust your expectations. Aiming at a younger demographic, Crystal Commanders leverages its mixed reality features to provide its fundamental mechanics.
While there are two factions available to play, their units are nearly indistinguishable, which detracts from any strategic variance tied to the faction chosen. Likewise, the options for building are limited, with no upgrades or diverse unit production that are often hallmarks of more developed titles in the genre. Given these constraints, Crystal Commanders appears aimed at welcoming younger players into the world of strategy gaming.
While Crystal Commanders may not represent the most intricate RTS experience, it isn’t necessarily a flaw. For those looking to introduce a younger audience to real-time strategy gaming—or simply wishing to recreate imaginative battles from their youth—Crystal Commanders presents a charming and light-hearted entry point into the genre.
Crystal Commanders is now available on the Meta Quest platform.