VGSources / Games / Unknown Worlds Entertainment
real-time strategy
Natural Selection 2
By Unknown Worlds Entertainment, released 1 Jan 2012
- Microsoft Windows
- Linux
- science fiction video game
- first-person shooter
What it is
Natural Selection 2 is a multiplayer game from Unknown Worlds Entertainment that combines first-person shooting with real-time strategy. Human marines and alien Kharaa fight over survival, while a commander on each side directs the larger battle. Commanders can issue orders, place structures, gather resources, research technology, and deploy abilities. On the human side, that can mean supplying a squad or placing sentry guns; the alien commander can grow Hives to expand territory and create more eggs. Alien players can evolve into five lifeforms with different roles: Skulks run on walls, Lerks fly and support teammates with gas, Gorges heal and build, Fades blink into fights, and the large Onos is built to withstand attacks. Marines use weapons including rifles, shotguns, grenade launchers, and pistols. Steam lists multiplayer, online PvP, an editor, Workshop, Cloud, achievements, trading cards, and Family Sharing. The listed platforms are Windows and Linux, while the Steam platform listing specifies Windows.
What players like, and what they don't
- Combines first-person shooting and real-time strategy.
- Two commanders direct their teams.
- Aliens have five distinct lifeforms.
- Steam Workshop and a level editor are listed.
- Online PvP is supported.
- Steam lists Windows as its platform.
- No single-player feature is listed.
Who it suits
It suits groups who want team-based online combat with both shooter action and commander-led strategy. Players can choose between human marine weapon roles and five alien lifeforms.
Natural Selection 2 centers on coordinated human-versus-alien battles, with different ways to contribute as a commander or combat unit. Its mix of shooting and strategic team direction is its defining feature.
