Dropzone

Release Date: February 15, 2017

Strategy, science fiction, MOBA, RTS, free-to-play, indie games, co-op, multiplayer, singleplayer, internet

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An online science fiction strategy game by Sparkypants Studios, combining elements of a classical RTS with elements of modern MOBA productions. The action of Dropzone is set in times when humanity’s future is dependent on the mysterious energy source called the Core, and the only place where it can be found is Europa, one of the Jupiter’s moons. The problem is that the place is also a target for the alien race of Kavash.

Plot
Mechanics
Game modes
Technical aspects

Dropzone is an online strategy game focused on one-on-one player-versus-player combat, combining elements of classical RTS with elements of modern MOBA productions. It was developed by Sparkypants Studios, a studio established in 2011, employing former designers from Microprose, Firaxis, and Big Huge Games, the creators of such famous title as Kingdoms of Amalur: Reckoning, Civilization II, Alpha Centauri, or the Rise of Nations series. Dropzone is available for PC in the free-to-play business model.

Plot

The action is set in the 20th century, when the humanity’s future is dependent on the mysterious energy source known as the Core. The problem is that the only place in the universe that has deposits of it is Europa, one of Jupiter’s moons. Unfortunately, it is also a target of incursions by aliens called the Kavash. While playing, we control three pilots who sit in the helm of powerful mechs, the so-called Rigs. Our task is to defeat the aliens and reach the power sources we need.

Mechanics

The gameplay mechanics of Dropzone draw inspirations from classical real-time strategy games but they miss the element which is typical of the genre, namely building a base. Instead, the developers focused solely on tactical combat known from MOBA productions, where both players have three mechs at their disposal. Battles take place on relatively small maps and last for 15 minutes. Both players’ goal is to defeat the opponent and take control over the Core in the center of the map. During every match, the game generates three random side quests that let us gain additional points.

Three kinds of mechs are at our disposal: the slow but well-armored Tank, Gunner that has less armor but deals more damage, and the Mechanic which provides support. Our team can be put together from any kind of units piloted by a whole range of characters. Before the battle begins, we may choose our weapons and passive abilities so that they fit our playstyle. Units are dropped to the battlefield from the board of a transport ship that also plays the role of a repair station. As befits a MOBA game, Dropzone features a simple development system — our pilots advance to higher experience levels and thus gain new useful abilities.

Game modes

Dropzone for PC is meant solely for multiplayer. What’s important, only two players can participate in a match, assuming control over human and alien team.