Browser Games – Volume 2: OGame
August 13, 2008 – 2:11 pm
What is OGame?
OGame is one of the most popular browser games, which is defined as a strategic space simulation game with thousands of players across the world competing with each other simultaneously. It is a game of intergalactic conquest. OGame is available in many languages. There are more than two million active accounts. OGame was created in 2002 by Gameforge AG. The game is available on Ogame.org. The site has 39 universes. As the numbers of the players multiply, new universes are added to the site. Players can connect through the official OGame forums and get new information about the game.
How to Play?
Players start randomly with an undeveloped world and try to turn it into a mighty empire. At the beginning players create an economic and military infrastructure to support their quest for the next greatest technological achievements. There are always 163 fields in the first planet. Players can get other planets (up to 9) as well. In order to do this, players should develop their planets. There are five resources for development: metal, crystal, deuterium, energy and dark matter. In order to get this resources players need to mine or trade. As there are thousands of players who are online, players have the chance to set alliances and protect each other from the attacks and also to attack other planets. Players are also able to make free trades among the members of the alliances. Like most of the other browser games players can have some advantages over the other players by paying some money. This is called “purchased effects” in OGame. When you pay, you get Dark Matter, which lets you use purchased effects. Commander is another important thing in the game; you can have improved functionality and also an improved user interface. Players also have “Empire View” which gives the players chance to see the other players’ planets in detail such as: ships, resources, defenses and energy. Commander also lets players to have message filters, shortcuts, an improved galaxy view and improved commands which could help players to score better. “Officers” is another pay-to-play option in OGame. It gives players advantage in the game. There are four types of officers:
1. Fleet Admiral increases maximum fleet slot by 2.
2. Engineer reduces the losses of defensive structure during an attack by half and it also gives 10% more energy to the player.
3. Geologist, as clear by the name, increases metal mine crystal mine and deuterium synthesizer production.
4. Technocrat increases the espionage level which is very useful for the players.
OGame pay-to play options, especially “Officers” option was a debate for a long time among the players. Because players thought Ogame would not break the promise for not making a pay-to-play option. Whatever happens, players keep playing it. There are thousands of addicted OGame players, who spend hours in front of their computers. Player forums may give you detailed information about the game. You can have the opinions of the experienced OGame players and learn some tips. It is fun to play but you have to be careful in case you become an addicted. Have fun!