Conclusion:

With all the cross-genre innovations WorldShift is like a breath of fresh air in the RTS industry and although it won't become the next big thing in strategy games is a welcomed distraction from the daily routine. Some people might consider it a giant leap forward while the critics will surely dismiss it as a small step backwards, but as far as I'm concerned, WorldShift is a bold alternative for the strategy games fans willing to try something different.

Gameplay: 78

As you no longer have to worry about the time consuming grinding and with building being completely removed there is plenty of time to focus on the combat system alone and this makes WorldShift a fast paced strategy game. With all the RPG elements included in this original concept and the addition of the ability grid, this is game that should have a long-lasting appeal, enhanced by the brilliant co-op mode.

Graphics: 74

Some people may argue that the environment is too colorful and that units look a bit cartoonish but the truth is that most of the missions take place in lush jungles and the colors are appropriate; as for the way troops were designed, it's obvious that a lot of effort was invested in details and the result is not too bad although there is plenty of room for improvements. The weather effects are really attractive and watching a full scale army charging an enraged boss is even better than actually killing the enemy.

Sounds: 72

Music creates the desired atmosphere although it lacks the epic proportion of most RTS games available but overall succeeds in creating just the right mood to start another scenario. Unfortunately each unit has a very limited vocabulary and some cheesy comment might have a deterring effect, but luckily you are constantly shifting between your troops so this issue doesn't really grow into a reason of discontent.

Multiplayer: 83

Co-op mode is the part where WorldShift truly shines, because the most exciting content and the more challenging boss fights are only revealed here and perfect coordination between players is crucial. It's difficult enough to manage your own unit and take full advantage of the offensive spells and abilities in single player but in the co-op every decision can determine the outcome of a battle. This experience if similar to that of a boss fight in a MMORPG, with a player in charge of tanking the enemy or his pet, another being the damage dealer and somebody else in charge of healing and dispelling harmful buffs.

Hardware: 80

This is not a game that will test your system and should run smoothly even on the less powerful machines, without any negative effect even when a combined army is charging the enemy. There is just one loading time before each mission and it usually takes less that reading the preview of the mission.