This real time aspect really makes for some interesting strategies. Sending a fleet of warships to conquer an enemy’s island can take the better part of a day of real-time. And that’s just for them to arrive at their destination. Players may soon find themselves scheduling their day around the game. “Let’s see…these guys are going to arrive in three hours. That means I can take a quick trip to the grocery store, grab a bite to eat, catch a little TV, and be back in time to begin the actual assault.” Of course, it’s always easier to try to plan your attacks so that your opponent is offline, meaning you’ll be facing only automated defenses. Which means learning opponent’s playing habits, and using it against them. Of course, they’re also doing the same, so randomizing the playing times is beneficial. Politics and diplomacy also come into their own in Time of Defiance. Do you trust your neighbor enough to let them know when you’ll be gone, so that they might look after your empire while you’re away? And do you return the favor when you “ally” steps out, or do you use that opportunity to help yourself to some more islands? For those with constant access to the game, ToD has a feature that will send a real-life email warning when the empire is under attack. For some, this may be a good way keep an eye on things when not directly playing the game. For others, this is just a way to add insult to injury, when you arrive at work to find that your islands are falling left and right, and you can’t possibly get back to the game for another eight hours.
Graphics are solid, although nothing too flashy. There isn’t a lot of variation, however, so the game quickly gets that “samey” feel. Sound is appropriately done, with decent combat sounds and unit acknowledgments. Game requirements are quite low, and ToD is also dial-up modem friendly. New content is constantly being added, keeping the game fresh. Games consist of 21- or 28-day rounds, so if you find yourself repeatedly squashed in a particular game, it’ll be over in less than a month, and everyone will be reset to square one to once again try to conquer the world.
As unique and compelling an idea as Time of Defiance is, some may find it just doesn’t fit their playing schedule. ToD requires some pretty serious dedication of time, and many (including myself) just can’t dedicate that amount over a long period. For those finding themselves away from the computer for days at a time, ToD may not quite be the right game, especially given the (very reasonable) monthly fee. However, if you have the time available, and want to experience a true “real time” game, Time of Defiance is worth a look.
B-
A unique twist on the real time strategy game. This is the Game That Keeps Playing, Even When You Don’t.
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