Stargate: Timekeepers Review – A Stealth Tactics Adventure in the SG-1 Universe

Get ready for a thrilling journey through the Stargate with “Stargate: Timekeepers,” a real-time tactics game that blends stealth, strategy, and the iconic Stargate: SG-1 universe. With a solid rating of 8/10, this game takes you on an exciting adventure, navigating alien worlds and setting up tactical ambushes that pay homage to the TV series.

Unexpected Stealth Tactics in Stargate Universe

Stepping through the Stargate has always been an unpredictable experience, and “Stargate: Timekeepers” adds a surprising twist with its competent stealth tactics gameplay. Maneuvering through diverse alien landscapes and executing well-timed ambushes feels like a natural extension of the budget-constrained missions seen in the earlier seasons of SG-1. While the storyline may not be groundbreaking, the game’s vibes and presentation strike a chord with fans of the series.

Quirky Characters and Familiar Tones

“Timekeepers” draws inspiration from the SG-1 TV show, introducing a new team of witty characters within the familiar Stargate universe. The slightly campy tone pays homage to a time when television was less grim, and the game finds a sweet spot, balancing between humor and seriousness. It’s a refreshing callback to the SG-1 era.

A Parallel Adventure in SG-1 Universe

Set against the backdrop of SG-1 and Atlantis, “Timekeepers” unfolds its fast-paced plot during the climactic Battle of Antarctica in the seventh season. However, here’s the catch – if you’re not well-versed in Stargate lore, you might feel like you’ve been thrown off a cliff. The game assumes familiarity with the series, making it more suitable for existing SG-1 fans.

Dynamic Team Dynamics

The game introduces a diverse team of characters across seven initial missions, each contributing unique skills to the gameplay. While their personalities may seem a bit two-dimensional, the interactions and synergy between them offer an enjoyable experience. The missions, ranging from 45 minutes to a couple of hours, invite players to adopt various playstyles and strategies.

Gameplay Mechanics and Tactical Mastery

“Timekeepers” echoes the style of Mimimi’s acclaimed Shadow Tactics and Shadow Gambit games, presenting intricate scenarios that require tactical finesse. The game allows flexibility in approaching missions, catering to both aggressive and stealthy playstyles. Each character’s abilities come into play, encouraging players to strategize and experiment.

Balancing Act and Missed Opportunities

Despite offering diverse playstyles, “Timekeepers” falls short in rewarding stealth or nonviolence. While lethal and nonlethal options exist, the game doesn’t provide significant incentives for choosing a nonlethal approach. Decision outcomes in one episode don’t carry over, missing an opportunity to create a more dynamic narrative.

Visual Appeal and Level Design

Visually, “Timekeepers” holds up well with captivating character portraits and dynamic alien environments. Although not overly detailed, each level presents a satisfying difficulty curve, introducing new elements and challenges progressively. The mission intros, resembling “Previously on…” recaps, add a nostalgic touch reminiscent of the TV show.

Technical Glitches and Oddities

While the game excels in many aspects, occasional technical glitches may disrupt the experience. Issues like enemies discovering hidden bodies after an extended period or AI anomalies can be frustrating. The absence of a save option when enemies are alerted adds an unnecessary challenge.

Conclusion – A Nostalgic Stargate Adventure

“Stargate: Timekeepers” successfully captures the essence of the SG-1 universe, offering an engaging and nostalgic gaming experience. While it assumes prior knowledge of Stargate lore, it delivers on the promise of a thrilling adventure through the iconic Stargate. With its mix of stealth tactics, dynamic characters, and familiar tones, this game is a must-try for Stargate enthusiasts looking to revisit the magic of the series in a new interactive format.