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GamesRadar+ Verdict
Pros
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Thrilling multiplayer
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Non-linear single player
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Challenging new races
Cons
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Limited battlefield view
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Getting slaughtered in multi
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Steep learning curve
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Brace for impact: grandmaster developer Relic has fired another shot in the battle for strategy gaming supremacy - and this time they intend to redefine what "expansion pack" really means.
The war-scarred planet of Kronus is the home to this expansion, called Dark Crusade, the second add-on for Relic's Warhammer 40,000: Dawn of War. The most vile and powerful races in the universe have converged for a final showdown for domination of its technology and artifacts. There is no peace to be made here on Kronus - your Hero must lead your faction to complete victory - or face total annihilation.
The single player campaign progresses in turns between real-time skirmishes. The order in which your army sweeps across the 25 finely detailed battlegrounds is wide open and non-linear. Conquering some territories requires completion of a unique mission type, keeping the long campaign fresh. For example, you may have to lead your forces to victory with no reinforcements, or with a given amount of a certain resource.
Additionally, defeating one of the six faction's central strongholds requires a special effort, as each army is dug into their territory in such a way that suits their own tactics. You'll also need to defend your home base against frequent counterattacks. Losing your own stronghold means getting permanently pushed from the planet.
