Let's Play Terra Nova: Strike Force Centauri Pt 2
Channel: Looking Glassed
Date: 13/10/2020

Taking place in the far future of the 2300's, Terra Nova is set in the distant Centauri system where a sliver of humanity, previously inhabitants of the Sol system, have migrated and colonized the further reaches of space, meanwhile establishing independent cultures, clans and political systems sovereign from the oppressive Hegemony of the Sol system. An uneasy alliance with the Terran Hegemony and frequent raids by outlaw and pirate forces have prompted the formation of a joint task force made up of the most elite soldiers from all the Centauri clans. Strike Force Centauri (SFC) is made up of an elite group of each Centauri clan's best warriors who specialize as a quick attack force and are adept at interplanetary special operations from orbital drop. Utilizing mech-like powered battle armor (PBAs) SFC is deployed to conduct reconnaissance, raids and even high profile demolitions in small squads of 4 or less. As tensions amongst the clans, & between the Centauri system and ruthless outlaws rise, SFC will be counted on to keep the peace in the far reaches of space. 


In this oft forgotten entry in Looking Glass Studio's catalogue, you play as the squad leader of a force of pseudo-mech pilots. The game can best be described as MechWarrior meets rainbow six, with a dash of X-Wing/TIE fighter and Wing Commander thrown in. Dripping with 90s references, tropes and design, this game is a fun nostalgia trip. Though it sold poorly at the time and was behind the curve technologically, its unique control scheme, AI and physics simulations and unique tactical, squad-based game play (which balances tactical command with real time shooting, movement and navigation perfectly) make this a fun and unique experience. Terra Nova's live action FMVs, and story may seem silly superficially, but the somewhat decent acting, and rich lore provided in the games codex, emails and news articles reveal that this game is covered with the fingerprints of Looking Glass Studios, as does the deep and satisfying gameplay. This wasn't LGS's finest outing for sure, but for me it ultimately didn't disappoint. Enjoy this Let's Play of Terra Nova: Strike Force Centauri.