Inspired by the 1983 cult classic film, Wargames, DEFCON superbly evokes the tension, paranoia and suspicion of the Cold War era, playing on the fascinating aspects of psychological gameplay that occur during strategic nuclear warfare. You play a General hidden deep within an underground bunker.
As a general hidden in an underground bunker, you take on the chilling objective of exterminating the enemy's civilian population while minimizing losses to your own. Inspired by the 1983 cult classic film "WarGames", the game expertly captures the tension, paranoia, and psychological aspects of strategic nuclear warfare.
The core gameplay revolves around the careful deployment and strategic management of various military assets, including missile silos, naval fleets, air forces, and radar stations. You must meticulously position these units across the game's simplified but evocative world map, anticipating the movements and actions of your opponents. As the DEFCON level (Defensive Condition) steadily decreases, signaling the escalation towards an all-out nuclear exchange, you can launch devastating nuclear strikes at DEFCON 1, attempting to destroy the enemy's civilian centers while protecting your own.
The game's minimal yet haunting visual style, coupled with a somber and atmospheric soundtrack, creates an immersive and unsettling experience. As you watch the nuclear missiles arc across the screen and witness the devastating aftermath of your decisions, the game forces you to confront the true horrors of nuclear war.
The game's multiplayer mode introduces an additional layer of complexity, as you must navigate the treacherous world of diplomacy and alliances. You can form tactical partnerships, but these alliances are always at risk of breaking down, leading to the most deadly of betrayals. The constant state of nervous suspense and paranoid accusation between players adds an engaging and thought-provoking dimension to the gameplay.
While the gameplay may appear simple on the surface, the game offers substantial depth and replayability. Each match presents a unique set of challenges, with you constantly adapting your strategies to the ever-changing conditions. The game's small but dedicated community has further expanded the experience, with custom game modes and mods that explore different variations of the nuclear warfare scenario.