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X3: Terran Conflict Review

Oct. 22 11:08 PM by Andrew Ramsey

X³: Terran Conflict is a brand new, stand-alone game set in the universe of X³. It is the culmination of the X trilogy and the vast regions of spaced are explored in this title in a grand finale that takes us all the way across the galaxy to Earth. Gamers can take on the roles of different characters in the X universe, or of a Terran military pilot, and experience a multitude of stories in the largest X universe ever featured. While this sounds like a never ending game some, if not most, of the plot lines are not that enthralling thus making your decision on what to do limited. Take an RTS and add a complex system of menus on top of more menus and you sum up X³: Terran Conflict. This is a space shooter flight sim strategy game. Yes, it is a robust description but there is a lot in this game.

The major flaw with X³ is its menu system. It's a pain to deal with if you don't take the time to learn it. With its vast tons of customization you can spend about an hour or so just picking out what type of control scheme you want. Then you pick your hot keys so you don't go rummaging through the menus to do a simple task. Does this sound like a lot to handle already? Well, this is just at the tutorial at beginning of the game. After traversing through its eight or nine minutes of information you are shot out into the world expecting to be ready to take on anything. While this might sound difficult, after a bit you will be able to handle whatever is thrown at you as long as you stick with it.

The saving grace in this title is the level design. A living breathing world has never looked so good. Even simply fly around and look at all the stars and feel very satisfied. While star gazing isn't the biggest selling point the game does offer other things. Be a trader and move from port to port trading goods and services to collect a vast amount of wealth and items for you and your ship. Or help out others by guarding trading routes or hire others to help guard your own goods. While X³: Terran Conflict is not the first in the series it unfortunately might be the last. This game is not for everyone, but for those who think they can handle its problems will surely enjoy what it has to offer.

Pros: Great Visuals, Will be fun in the long run

Cons:Complex menu system, not for the casual

Sound: 3.5
Controls: 3.0
Graphics: 4.5
Fun Factor: 3.75
The Info: Platform: PC, Publisher: Egosoft, Developer: Egosoft, ESRB: E, Players: 1, Price:$39.99