TKO Software, the talented development house behind Medal of Honor: Allied Assault Breakthrough, is going straight to hell. Actually in TKO’s upcoming Heaven and Hell real-time strategy game, a lot depends on how the gamer plays as to whether the outcome of the game will be the domination of earth by the armies of Satan.

Coming from the fertile mind of producer James Parker, Heaven vs. Hell is a pet project of the TKO team. Parker began by imagining an RTS that would depict the biblical end days of mankind in some far distant future. He imagined God and his heavenly host growing tired of man’s constant pushing of the scientific envelope to make themselves more godlike, and decides to wipe the slate clean and start again. Satan and the minions of hell, liking the sway they hold over some in the world (Someone say the GOP?), counters God’s move with his own invasion of Earth, while mankind – not really wanting to be wiped out by either side – defends itself with all the advanced technology at its disposal.

In the game the player may choose any side he desires: heaven, hell or human. Depending on the faction chosen, the player will command dozens of unique units with different strengths and weaknesses. While the premise of the game is unique, RTS fans will find the game comfortably familiar with traditional RTS tactical manipulation, resource and forces management.

The build shown at TKO’s E3 booth was admittedly early (the game is not even scheduled to be completed until early 2007) but already shows signs of having a stunning presentation. The terrain and units I saw in action already boasted great detail and the artwork was quite pleasing and fanciful. Depending on who is controlling a region, the terrain will reflect the control by taking on the attributes of the controlling force. For example, an area held by the forces of hell quickly takes on the appearance of a scorched, volcanic region.

Parker says that, as they play, gamers will be able to create powerful hero characters based on biblical figures and will be able to use their abilities to lead their forces in the fray. These won’t be all-powerful terminators though. As they use their special abilities their energy will drain, not only diminishing their ability to attack, but also making them vulnerable to counterattack.

A solid solo campaign as well as multiplayer through LAN and Internet are planned. Players will also be able to design their own maps and campaigns.



After visiting TKO’s booth and seeing their new game in this very early form, it was plain that they had come to E3 2005 with the intention of finding and signing up with a publisher for their new baby. After being talked through their very early build and hearing the vision they hold for the game, I have no doubt they will find the publisher they need and bring this unique RTS game to fans that will enjoy it.