Star Control 3 (1996 Video Game) User Reviews (2)

Great Big-Picture Plot, some implicit spoilers

[chriswwalker · 11 November 2005]

The game actually is great for the time it was written and the criticisms from hardcore SC2 fans, as well as indications of cognitive expression, indicate to me that the game had the wrong audience, or the wrong name.

SC3 has a mind-popping collection of conspiracies, plots, subplots, rescue missions, missions of mercy, missions of revenge and offers significant choices. Despite some technical kinks in the game, it was worth whipping out an old Windows 98 system and running through a walk-through of the game.

Even a walk-through isn't quite enough to win, because a very long-term perspective is required to succeed, and infinite patience. I generally find that clicking through dialogue speeds up the game, but watch out--it is possible to miss that one little point and answer yes, when no was clearly the right answer. Even today, listening to the dialogue of one of the manipulative, cunning, cynical and wicked head bad guy makes me feel a little bit dirty...won't you join?

One of the Greatest VG Stories and Some of the Most Memorable Characters of All Time

[SW_Jones · 24 March 2005]

I rate the storyline of this game up there with FFVII, FFX and several other RPG's. It will probably remain unknown, and extremely underrated.

This game was extremely innovative, and a worthy successor to Star Control II.

I do not understand why die-hard fans that like SC2 don't like this game. The storywriters worked VERY hard to preserve the continuity and the personalities of the different alien species, but also to enhance them.

Who cares that during the opening FMV the Sa-Matra didn't look a thing like the original in SC2? OK, so they made a goof.

All of the races' starships are the same in melee, and their appearance has been more well-drawn, and given a 3-dimensional look.

Gameplay is also better, with a much more FAIR system of how to earn fuel for your starship.

The storyline and the characters -- coupled with the interaction with the characters -- are what make this game so memorable. If you are familiar with SC2, it hooks you right from the start. If you are not familiar with SC2, the game's human contact on Helios will explain it to you.

Races that do not even appear in the game but that did appear in SC2 (SPOILERS) are mentioned by the Precursor you get to meet and speak with.

I love the final line in the game. "We had gone in search of the Precursors and found... ourselves".