Command & Conquer, or the also called the "C&C" series, has long been a cornerstone in the real-time strategy (RTS) genre, captivating gamers with its engaging gameplay and memorable storylines.
In a significant move to honor this legacy and support the gaming community, Electronic Arts (EA) has open-sourced the source code for four classic titles: Command & Conquer: Tiberian Dawn, Command & Conquer: Red Alert, Command & Conquer: Renegade, and Command & Conquer: Generals.
EA's decision to release the source code for these titles under the GNU General Public License (GPL) means that the public can "run, study, share, or modify" the games, in any way they want.
By making the original code accessible, EA empowers modders and developers to create new content, enhance existing features, and ensure these classics remain playable on modern systems.
The journey of C&C began in 1995 with the release of Command & Conquer: Tiberian Dawn, developed by Westwood Studios.
Set in a modern warfare scenario, the game introduced players to the conflict between the Global Defense Initiative (GDI) and the Brotherhood of Nod, led by the enigmatic Kane. Its success paved the way for Red Alert in 1996, which explored an alternate history where the Allies faced off against the Soviet Union.
Red Alert was considered "a strategic turning point for Westwood Studios," its CEO at the time said.
Both titles were lauded for their innovative gameplay and compelling narratives, solidifying C&C's position in the RTS genre.
In 2002, Command & Conquer: Renegade offered a fresh perspective by transitioning the series into a first- and third-person shooter format, allowing players to experience the C&C universe from a ground-level view.
The following year, Command & Conquer: Generals returned to the RTS roots, presenting a near-future conflict involving the United States, China, and the fictional Global Liberation Army.
Each installment contributed uniquely to the series' evolution, expanding its universe and gameplay mechanics.
The recovery and restoration of the source code for these titles were made possible through the collaborative efforts of EA technical director Brian Barnes, Respawn producer Jim Vessella, and Luke Feenan—a dedicated member of the C&C community who contributed to the development of the Command & Conquer Remastered Collection in 2020 and helped bring the C&C Ultimate Collection to Steam last March.
Prior to EA's open-source release, the community had already been proactive in reviving classic RTS games through projects like OpenRA.
This open-source game engine reimagines titles such as Red Alert, Tiberian Dawn, and Dune 2000, making them compatible with contemporary systems. OpenRA introduces enhancements like updated gameplay mechanics, new campaigns, user-generated maps, and online multiplayer support, blending nostalgia with modern gaming features.
Attention Commanders: We’re excited to announce that we released source code for several Command and Conquer titles and enabled Steam Workshop user map support for even more C&C games.
Plus, check out some newly discovered footage from the C&C Archive: https://t.co/xF4IgLkapH pic.twitter.com/1KSMM2b9iE— Official CnC (@OfficialCnC) February 27, 2025
The open-sourcing of these C&C titles marks a collaborative effort between EA and the dedicated gaming community to preserve and rejuvenate classic games.
It opens the door for aspiring developers to delve into the intricacies of game design and for long-time fans to experience their favorite titles anew.
The repositories are available on EA's GitHub page, and platforms like OpenRA continue to welcome new contributors and players alike.
EA's move not only honors the legacy of C&C, but is also considered a monumental step for game preservation and community engagement.
"Mission accomplished, comrade!"