'Command & Conquer' series to return

The acclaimed Command & Conquer: Red Alert series is to return to the gaming arena after a seven-year sabbatical.

The first Red Alert title was developed in 1996 as a prequel to the original Command & Conquer game, and now Electronic Arts has announced Command & Conquer: Red Alert 3 for the Xbox 360, PlayStation 3 and PC.

The real-time strategy game, which promises a fully co-operative campaign and light-hearted action-orientated gameplay, will see a demo included in the release of Command & Conquer 3: Kane's Wrath at the end of March.

“It’s been too long.” said Chris Corry, executive producer at Electronic Arts' LA Studio.

“Fans have been waiting for a new Red Alert game for seven years, and we’re working hard to ensure it's well worth the wait. The team is staying true to the series’ roots while adding new elements like a cooperatively-played story-driven campaign, an astounding new faction that will shake up the Red Alert universe as we know it, and units that will help make Red Alert 3 everything our fans have been waiting for.

"And by bringing naval combat into the heart of the game design, we’re transporting that fast, fun and fluid C&C gameplay to the high seas in ways that you’ve never seen before.”

Red Alert 3, whose release date has yet to be announced, will see the leadership of a doomed Soviet Union travel back in time to change history and restore the glory of Russia.