New version of OpenHV is out. The free RTS based on C&C Red Alert's foundation recieved new maps

As a seasoned gamer with a penchant for strategy titles and a soft spot for the Command & Conquer series, I must say that OpenHV has become my newfound treasure! With its roots tracing back to the ’90s through the Hard Vacum project, it’s fascinating to see how far this game has come from its humble beginnings.


OpenRA serves as an independent initiative aimed at upgrading the initial two installments of Command & Conquer with a more contemporary engine. Interestingly, some enthusiasts have chosen to leverage it for creating their own games. One such creation is the freeware RTS game known as OpenHV, which has recently been updated to a new version.

This update, labeled 20240908, is packed with numerous bug fixes and gameplay adjustments. However, its standout feature is the inclusion of eight fresh maps for multiplayer and skirmish games: Ixnay On The Hombre, Slippery Tensions, Twin Lakes, Supercharged, Processing Station, Split Three, War Playground, and Weldyn Channel. Additionally, it offers a new single-player mission titled “Infiltration Commando.

OpenHV isn’t influenced by any visual elements from the Command & Conquer series, making it possible for the creators to offer it as a standalone, free game. Originating from the Hard Vacum project, which was in development during the 1990s but never released, this production is the brainchild of artist Daniel Cook, who has contributed to modern indie hits like Alphabear and Road Not Taken.

In 2005, Cook unveiled the incomplete parts of a game called “Hard Vacum,” along with documentation detailing its intended gameplay. A community of modders collected these materials, filled in the gaps, and used them to develop their own game on the OpenRA engine. The final product they created is known as OpenHV.

As an enthusiast, I’d say this real-time strategy game is all about intense, swift conflicts. It offers the thrill of multiplayer battles, solo skirmishes against AI, and a few engaging story missions. This project is a blast to play and it’s always growing – there’s almost always a fresh wave of content coming in monthly updates.

  1. OpenHV– download the game

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2024-09-15 19:01