The classic real-time strategy game Command & Conquer has been largely neglected by its maintainer EA in recent years, but modders have been taking advantage of open source tools such as Open RA carry the torch for almost a decade, regularly patching and refining the original Command and conquer and its continuation Red alert with up-to-date features that improve quality of life. In some cases, dedicated fans have even managed to exploit the game engine to create something unique. One such mod, Connected armsThe project, which has been in development for almost four years, recently received a up-to-date update from the developer I lay downand contains enough content to be considered an original entry in the C&C series.
The full list of changes and additions is too extensive to summarize here, but Connected arms includes all five factions from the entire Command & Conquer series, each with their own sub-factions that have unique powers, units, upgrades, and other bonuses. For example, playing as the US subfaction for the Allies gives you increased airborne capabilities, while Psi-Corps for the Soviets gives you access to mind control units.
The mod uses some of the content from the original Command and conquer AND Red alertbut also consists of assets from Red Alert 2 AND Tiberium Warscombining them with tons of up-to-date sprites, all rendered in the original chunky C&C style.
Connected armsThe 34-mission campaign summarizes plot points that connect the timelines of various C&C titles. In a similar vein Connected arms also includes nine up-to-date songs, a combination of original pieces by composer Frank Klepacki.
Unfortunately, Connected arms some of the polishing paste included in the set is missing Remastered Command & Conquer Collection in 2020, but showcases many of the quality of life improvements the OpenRA engine has added to the base game, including up-to-date accessibility options, support for ultra-wide monitors, build queues, and more.
At the time of writing Connected arms is the fourth most popular mod on Moddb and after trying it out myself, I encourage any Command & Conquer fan or RTS lover to give it a try. The mod is available for self-download. Just download and install package from Moddb.
