You play in a 2D galaxy where you have to dominate each system by taking it over with battleships. Each galaxy has a number of solar systems, and you have to move from one to the other and dominate each until all the solar systems in the galaxy are owned by you. Battle for Orion 2 is a game for real-time strategy fans who enjoy conservative gameplay.

Resource gathering and conquest

In Battle for Orion 2, you take a solar system and mine it for resources. Create structures to help build more units and to defend your solar system. Each solar system is linked by one or more wormholes. Use the wormholes to send your troops in to other solar systems that are owned by your enemies. By sheer force of numbers, and a little bit of tactics, your troops overwhelm the enemy and the solar system becomes yours. The backgrounds are colourful, and many of the locations are randomly generated. The model detailing is not great, but objects are nicely shaded, which gives the impression of three dimensions.

A tactical grind for people who like longer games

Battle for Orion 2 is not a bad game, but its true qualities are not apparent until half way through the campaign when you start receiving and using more powerful weapons. The fact that enemies can only attack from predetermined positions will please some RTS fans. The game requires a lot of grind because you need to collect materials and reinforce your solar systems before moving on. If you expand too quickly, then it leaves you very weak. Overall, the game will please many real-time strategy fans who like a good long game that has re-play value.