Ceres PC

Ceres for PC is a tactical action game with elements of strategy and RPG, set in a science-fiction universe. The title is a debut production of Jötunn Games – an Icelandic independent studio, supported by a seasoned Dutch distributor, Iceberg Interactive, known for such strategy games as StarDrive and Starpoint Gemini.

Plot

The action of the game takes place in distant future, where a device called The Gate has malfunctioned. The titular station was created to connect the Solar system with other, uncharted worlds, as Earth had been annihilated and changed into a stony wasteland, floating around the Universe. The last remnants of human civilization and their machines have broken into warring factions, conducting warfare throughout the unbounded depths of space, filled with numerous alien races and other dangers. The player assumes the role of a young adventurer, who has just taken over his first ship with an ambition to become a legend among other explorers. What looked like a regular recon mission has become something much more dangerous, as our protagonist stood face to face with a mysterious AI called Ceres.

Mechanics

While creating the game, the developers were inspired by cult-classic titles such as Homeworld or Frontier: Elite; they mixed elements of many genres, from classic space strategies, through action games and space simulators, up to RPGs. The end result is “kinda sorta” Mount & Blade in space. During the game, we assume command over a squadron of fighters, taking part in missions joined by a main thread. Players can search for floating treasures, trade, or assaults other ships.

The game focuses mainly on combat and constant upgrading of the owned fleet. To be successful, we need to acquire adequate parts for our ships, such as weapons, shields, sensors and other modules, as well as competent crews, hiring captains and other team members. During our playthroughs, we receive experience for each completed mission, unlocking a wide range of new upgrades and useful abilities, allowing e.g. hacking a taking over enemy ships. The space battles are definitely a highlight of the game, with hundreds of ships under our control - from small fighters up to powerful dreadnoughts.

Game Modes

The game was developed as a singleplayer-only title, and does not offer any multiplayer modes.

Technical Aspects

When it comes to the technical side of things, Ceres for PC conforms to the standards set by most present-day science-fiction strategy games. However, the game contains an advanced damage model – during combat, ships can end with individual modules and systems malfunctioning.

Last updated on 28 November 2015