In a significant update to the real-time strategy game Tempest Rising, developer Slipgate Ironworks has officially introduced superweapons, dramatically enhancing the destructive capabilities for each in-game faction. Alongside this powerful addition, the studio hinted at further major developments for its Command & Conquer-inspired title.
As anticipated by many, the game has now made a third playable faction available, though currently in a beta phase for a limited two-week period. This new faction, known as The Veti, draws inspiration from ancient Egyptian culture and was previously encountered in the latter stages of the single-player campaigns. Their unique approach to gameplay sets them apart from the existing human factions—the technologically advanced GDF and the innovative Tempest Dynasty—by featuring summoned structures and distinctive units such as laser-equipped floating pyramids and ground troops that deploy bee attacks.
The Veti introduce several core mechanics that distinguish them, as detailed by Slipgate in a recent update. They possess the ability to convert defeated enemies into 'Enlightened' thralls, effectively utilizing fallen units as a resource. Furthermore, their expansion and upgrade system revolves around the Caretaker, a flying unit that creates a build radius and constructs ascension anchors. These anchors allow players to sacrifice Enlightened for structural upgrades or in the field for combat advantages, necessitating strategic resource allocation. The Veti also employ a sustainable method for harvesting Tempest, ensuring that resource fields never deplete. Their comprehensive arsenal includes nine buildings, seven vehicles, six infantry types, five air units, five defensive structures, and five specialized units, all culminating in their unique superweapon, the Sanctifier Portal. This portal eradicates nearby units, inflicts continuous area-of-effect damage, and can sustain itself by consuming enemy forces.
The Veti faction is accessible in Tempest Rising's public test branch until December 15. The developer has yet to confirm details regarding their permanent integration into the game, whether they will be exclusive to multiplayer, or if they will feature their own dedicated campaign. The introduction of The Veti faction highlights the ongoing evolution of Tempest Rising, offering players diverse strategic choices and enriching the game's dynamic universe. This expansion reinforces the idea that innovation and adaptability are key to success, both within the game's intricate battles and in the broader landscape of game development.
