EA revives seminal RTS franchise

Electronic Arts has finally confirmed widespread rumours of a revival of Westwood Studios' seminal RTS franchise, announcing the development of Command & Conquer 3: Tiberium Wars for PC.

The latest instalment is scheduled to ship in 2007, and marks the first new addition to the venerable series in over three years - something of a novelty for the industry powerhouse that's renowned for its frequent franchise updates.

Tiberium Wars takes the series back to its roots, picking up the storyline several years after 2002's Zero Hour title and focusing on the Global Defence Initiative's battle to contain the spread of Tiberium, a self-replicating alien substance that's spreading across the Earth and fuelling the megalomaniacal efforts of The Brotherhood of NOD.

Mike Verdu, EA Los Angeles executive producer, commented: "We're building a next generation Command & Conquer game that is true to the spirit of this classic franchise, but is updated with state-of-the-art visuals, added strategic depth, and gameplay innovations that will move the genre forward."

Promising "a revolution in RTS gaming," C & C 3 will offer PC gamers an expansive single-player campaign, that rewards particular gameplay styles, unit customisation and combination options, online play with voice-over IP, integrated clan support, and a range of new spectator modes that let gamers enjoy the RTS experience like a sporting event.

"We have been waiting to reveal this game for quite some time and are thrilled to bring the series back to where it all began," added Louis Castle, VP of creative development at EALA and co-founder of Westwood Studios. "The Tiberium universe is a personal favourite of mine, and this saga's new direction will prove to be a worthy addition to one of the most celebrated RTS franchises."