"The hooves of the Mongol steeds crashing across the ford sounded like a thousand bolts of lightning. The hills reverberated with the echoes, and I looked to see how this effected my men. In their eyes I saw fear, resignation, and even determination. But in those last few moments, who can really forsee what will soon
spring from the hearts of soldiers when battle is joined?" ~from the memoirs of a young officer at the Fords of Yen, 1214 CE.
This is a multiplayer adaptation of the "First Command" singleplayer campaign, which was included as one of the contests in the "Emperor: Bureaucratic Examination" competition in June, 2004. It is a simulation based on the historical Mongol invasion of Jin territory in 1214 CE.
From one to four players may participate. All players begin as allies. Each player is assigned to build an outpost along the Yellow River. Since the campaign is cooperative, players must juggle their own defense while also responding to the needs of their allies.
A total of six cities are available for interaction (four are player cities). The campaign is set in the Steel era, but there are restrictions on heroes, resources, commodities, and available structures. This campaign includes four new custom maps. The maps are different, but of equal size and balanced in relation to each other.
The zip file includes a text file 'FCM_Readme.txt', which contains historical background information, campaign design notes, and a few hints.
IMPORTANT NOTE: This campaign has a strong military theme. Although the pace and intensity of the original singleplayer version was slowed down to better fit the multiplayer format, this campaign still moves at a brisker pace than normal for multiplayer. It is designed for advanced players who enjoy the military aspect of this game.
Mission Teaser:
Mission 1 - 'First Command: Outposts on the Yellow River', no time limit, starts in 1214 CE.