The Best Command & Conquer Mods to Enhance Your Gaming Experience
For decades, the Command & Conquer modding community has been creating new twists and unique interpretations of the series' RTS formula.
Top C&C Mods You Must Try
Creating bases, bolstering military forces, directing armies, and unleashing powerful super-weapons – all of these things are synonymous with the iconic Command & Conquer series. Ever since its release in 1995, a slew of amazing games (and some that the fans pretend do not exist) have been released.
Following this, fans of the series have created their fair share of quality mods that either enhance or transform the base games into something bigger and more ambitious than ever before. It’s easy to get lost in the sea of gameplay modifiers out there, packing in new maps, upgrades to AI, additional factions, and captivating campaigns. Ergo, these are but a few of the most popular and beloved ones.
1. OpenRA (Command & Conquer / Command & Conquer: Red Alert)
Supporting the first two entries in the series (plus Dune 2000), OpenRA revitalizes them in countless ways.
- Created by The OpenRA Developers.
- Downloadable from the official website.
Easily the most user-friendly mod out there has to be OpenRA, compatible with the first Command & Conquer and the alternate-universe follow-up Command & Conquer: Red Alert. This open-source mod updates the base game with modern quality-of-life treatments, like production queues for building/training multiple units, better unit controls, ‘fog of war’ that doesn’t hide the entire map within its shroud, and more.
Thanks to its active multiplayer, finding games online is a piece of cake, and there are so many additional maps that will even cater to purists. Improved screen resolutions, additional particle effects, and other neat touches are included alongside. It’s still being updated and played to this very day, too.
2. Tiberium Resurrection (Command & Conquer: Tiberian Sun)
This mod contains additional units, maps, and a new take on the events following the events of the Firestorm add-on.
- Created by Lucas-SK.
- Download from ModDB.
Command & Conquer: Tiberian Sun took the Tiberium timeline of the series in a much darker, more futuristic direction, and near enough, everyone loved it for that. Mods like Tiberium Resurrection (originally created by Lucas-SK and currently worked on by an eager team that has since taken the helm) take the fun factor to new heights with a brand-new campaign taking place after the plot of the game’s official expansion pack, Firestorm. This even comes with new cinematics, too.
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It contains new maps for single-player and multiplayer, additional units, graphical enhancements, more music, and various gameplay rebalances for a fairer experience across the board. Even better, the rag-tag band of mutants known as the Forgotten have their playable faction as well. There’s content galore packed inside this one to keep fans busy.
3. RenHD (Command & Conquer: Renegade)
Made up of community-created and private assets, this mod gives the title a facelift.
- Created by Unstoppable.
- Download from ModDB.
Westwood Studios probably didn’t think dedicated fans would be modding their ho-hum first/third-person shooter hybrid Command & Conquer: Renegade so many years after its release. Developed by Unstoppable, RenHD gives the dated graphics some serious polish, with sharper visuals and much more eye-catching textures for every level and model.
The mod doesn’t seek to change the base gameplay. Rather, it cleverly uses community assets created privately and released publicly, while mixing in some custom-made additions and HD cutscenes into the final product as well. Even the music is remastered. So, for anyone who is keen on trying out the first-ever official C&C FPS or wants to revisit the title after so many years, definitely consider downloading this alongside.
4. Rise of the Reds (Command & Conquer: Generals – Zero Hour)
Two factions are added to the mix, while the existing ones have a greatly expanded roster.
- Created by SWR Productions.
- Download from ModDB.
It may not be the most popular entry in the series, but Command & Conquer: Generals still has a prominent fanbase of modders. One of the most popular ones is Rise of the Reds, which requires the Zero Hour DLC along with the base game. For starters, it offers visual upgrades, a new multiplayer executable, and even two more factions: the defense-centric European Continental Alliance and the mad-about-tanks Russian Federation.
Some of the most prominent changes include the remixed roster of units, buildings, and superweapons for each of the original factions. Certain units that specialize in scouting and stealth are more useful than before, while combat between aircraft and anti-air units is overhauled here, too. Thankfully, progress is still ongoing with this one, with more great ideas in the pipeline.
5. Tiberium Essence (Command & Conquer 3: Tiberium Wars)
Many units from Tiberian Sun are lovingly created and implemented in this mod.
- Created by Carnius.
- Download from ModDB.
Despite releasing months after Command & Conquer 3: Kane’s Wrath, solo developer Carnius worked hard to recreate units from Command & Conquer: Tiberian Sun for this mod. Some of them were officially brought back in the aforementioned expansion, yet this modder went above and beyond here.
Not only are various familiar units back, like the Hover MLRS and Devil’s Tongue, but the AI antagonist hell-bent on mankind’s destruction, CABAL, is a playable faction here. Even better are the visual upgrades, balances, additional music tracks, upgrades for units, support powers, and various other inclusions. Tiberium Essence should prove to be a perfect pick for both single and multiplayer.
6. Remix (Command & Conquer: Red Alert 3)
True to its name, new units and abilities are bundled alongside additional maps and more.
- Created by KnightVVV.
- Download from Nexus Mods.
The simply-named Remix mod for Command & Conquer: Red Alert 3 by KnightVVV overhauls the Top Secret Protocols of the base game – all 45 of them to be exact – and replaces them with brand-new ones. In other words, more powerful abilities and deadly units can be played with here. Ever wanted a triple-cannon spider-tank for the Soviets, or even more frightening aircraft for the Allies? They’re all available here, and they have new voice lines, too.
On top of that, to sweeten the deal, this mod bundles a collection of fresh maps to wage war on. By the way, be sure to check out its cinematic six-minute trailer, as it’s an amazing watch, on top of showing much of the cool stuff available.
7. AI Boost (Command & Conquer: Remastered Collection)
This mod improves the enemy AI and implements other quality-of-life changes.
- Created by Bast75 and xXMini FrankiXx.
- Download from Steam Workshop.
Command & Conquer: Remastered Collection is an excellent way to relive the first two entries in the series and their respective add-ons and console-exclusive content faithfully, though it’s not flawless. The AI seems to trip over itself at times; it’s understandable why the developers didn’t want to tinker with it too much in case any re-coding would damage anything important.
Thankfully, the AI Boost mod by Bast75 and xXMini FrankiXx helps with this and more. Not only does it improve pathfinding, but it also introduces various improvements for a more challenging experience, making it perfect for Skirmish mode. The AI enemy will now construct buildings and units it wouldn’t normally use, like boats, spies, commandos, and so on. It also adds other quality-of-life changes, like being able to transport troops in APCs via Chronosphere without killing everyone inside in the process.
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Q&A
Q: Are these mods compatible with the latest versions of the Command & Conquer games? A: Most of these mods are compatible with the latest versions of the Command & Conquer games. However, it’s always a good idea to check the mod’s official website or ModDB page for compatibility information and any necessary updates.
Q: Can I use these mods in multiplayer mode? A: Many of these mods have active multiplayer communities and offer multiplayer support. However, it’s important to note that some mods may have specific multiplayer requirements or limitations. Be sure to read the mod’s documentation or check with the mod’s community for more information.
Q: How do I install these mods? A: Each mod may have a slightly different installation process, but most mods will provide detailed instructions on their official websites or ModDB pages. Generally, you’ll need to download the mod files and place them in the appropriate game directory. It’s always recommended to follow the installation instructions provided by the mod developers.
Q: Can I create my own mods for Command & Conquer games? A: Absolutely! The Command & Conquer community is known for its active modding scene, and there are plenty of resources available for aspiring modders. If you’re interested in creating your own mods, you can start by checking out forums and websites dedicated to Command & Conquer modding, joining modding communities, and experimenting with modding tools and software.
Q: Are there any other Command & Conquer mods worth checking out? A: While the mods mentioned in this article are some of the most popular and beloved ones, there are many other fantastic mods available for the Command & Conquer series. Depending on the game you’re interested in, you can find mods that add new factions, campaigns, units, maps, and much more. Exploring modding communities and forums will help you discover a wide range of exciting mods.
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And there you have it, a comprehensive list of some of the best Command & Conquer mods to enhance your gaming experience. Whether you’re looking for graphical upgrades, new campaigns, additional factions, or improved AI, these mods have got you covered. So grab your troops, strategize your battle plans, and dive into the world of Command & Conquer like never before!
Did we miss any amazing mods that you think should be included? Let us know in the comments below and share your favorite modding experiences. And don’t forget to share this article with your friends and fellow gamers who are passionate about Command & Conquer. Together, let’s elevate the gaming experience to new heights!
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Note: All images and videos used in this article belong to their respective creators and are used for representational purposes only.
