Crystal Commanders is an accessible real-time strategy game. If you’re seeking the intricate details found in Command & Conquer, this title may not meet those expectations. However, it successfully incorporates key elements and fundamental mechanics of the genre, bringing them right into your living room or a virtual space.

For those familiar with RTS games, you start with a base and use your resources to buy a crystal refinery, initiating the process of harvesting crystals to generate more currency. This allows you to construct various buildings, such as factories for producing different vehicles and tanks, or airfields for deploying drones, which are handy for scouting higher terrain on the map. This sets up the classic gameplay loop of refining crystals, enhancing your base’s defences, and assembling your attacking units before strategising your assaults to defeat the enemy. Despite its simplified nature, I found myself thoroughly engaged and enjoying the experience the game provides.

The game features four distinct modes right from the start: Campaign, Single Game against AI, Multiplayer, and Creative mode. The Campaign includes fifteen missions, with the initial five or six serving as a tutorial to familiarise you with the gameplay before diving into the remaining missions. The whole campaign takes about two to three hours to finish. Initially, the gameplay is straightforward, but it becomes increasingly challenging as you advance, with the AI becoming more aggressive. I suggest beginning with the Campaign mode, as it effectively prepares you for what can be intense 1v1 battles.

In a single match against the AI, you can anticipate an unrestricted and straightforward combat experience against the computer. I was surprised to find that there are no difficulty settings available for this mode; however, the AI employs various tactics to ensure that each encounter feels distinct. On the other hand, the Creative mode offers a single-player experience where you can construct a base and devise strategies without any AI interference. This can be particularly beneficial as you begin to explore multiplayer gameplay. All single-player modes are available to play in either virtual reality or mixed reality.

There are two multiplayer modes available: one for virtual reality and another for mixed reality. In the online multiplayer mode, you can compete against friends from different locations or random players, all within a VR environment. Alternatively, the local PVP mode is perfect for when you have friends or family members with headsets visiting your home, allowing for mixed reality multiplayer battles right in your living space. As is common with most real-time strategy games, the multiplayer features offer a more intense experience, with battles that can last for an extended time—making it the ideal choice for those seeking a genuine challenge. Additionally, the team has ensured that each faction features similar types of vehicles, while also incorporating unique characteristics that allow for varied attack strategies. For instance, one faction possesses flame-thrower vehicles, yet the distinctions are well-balanced, preventing any single faction from gaining a significant edge over the others.