Just sign up for a user name and you will automatically be able to play games across the world at no charge. It keeps track of statistics such as how many times you have won and lost as well and you have chat rooms where you can discuss games and game options. One thing that I do not like however is the fact that Westwood Online, or WOL doesn't work with routers. You can enter the chat rooms and talk, but once you start a game you get disconnected. The graphics engine in Command and Conquer Red Alert 2 is improved.
Units appear much bigger and the graphics are very realistic.
Lots of features that Tiberian Sun was criticized for, for not having, are also added. Tactical commands such as having teams have been added and their is a new bar at the bottom of the screen with the new commands. Also, units are now divided up into four categories. Buildings, Armory, Infantry, and Vehicles. Their are four tabs at the top of the area where you select the units you want to build.