Homeworld: Deserts of Kharak - Buyer's Guide

Explore vast desert maps, command air & land vehicles, & make strategic decisions in Homeworld: Deserts of Kharak. A great experience for fans of the series, but may be disappointing for those seeking offline play & epic launcher independence.
Fan-art of Homeworld: Deserts of Kharak

In this sprawling RTS, navigate the treacherous dunes of Kharak as you command a variety of land and air vehicles in a battle for dominance. Explore vast, intricately designed maps and make strategic decisions that impact your chances of survival. With a rich single-player campaign and robust online multiplayer, Homeworld: Deserts of Kharak promises an immersive experience that delves into the origin story of a beloved franchise.

Should I play Homeworld: Deserts of Kharak in 2024?

The good

Homeworld: Deserts of Kharak has received praise from many gamers for its engaging story, immersive atmosphere, balanced gameplay, and visually appealing mechanics. Fans of the Homeworld franchise particularly enjoy the prequel’s approach to storytelling and its strategic real-time strategy (RTS) elements. Even newcomers to RTS games have found the campaign enjoyable and appreciate the variations it offers.

The bad

The primary complaints revolve around recent changes to the game, particularly the addition of always online DRM and Epic Game Services. Many users are upset that this 8-year-old game now requires constant internet connectivity and sends data back to Epic, labeling it as invasive and anti-consumer. There is significant discontentment with these changes, to the point where some players have considered refunds or switching to the GOG version, which does not have these issues.

Verdict

Should you still buy or play Homeworld: Deserts of Kharak in 2024? 🎮

If you are a fan of rich storytelling and strategic gameplay, there’s a good chance you’ll enjoy what Homeworld: Deserts of Kharak has to offer. However, it’s important to note the controversy surrounding the recent addition of always online DRM and Epic Game Services. If you prioritize offline play and data privacy, you might want to consider alternative ways to experience the game, such as purchasing it from GOG. Despite its fantastic campaign and immersive gameplay, these recent changes have left a bitter taste for many. Buyer beware! 🚨



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In-game Screenshot

Screenshot of Homeworld: Deserts of Kharak

Top image is not real in-game screenshots. Fan-art made by Gamer.se. Some game metadata is coming from RAWG