In 1999, Relic Entertainment released Homeworld, a ground-breaking real-time strategy game set in space. Whereas prior examples of the genre had been limited by two dimensions, Homeworld was (arguably) the first in which players were able to navigate across all three axes. It was a huge deal then and its legacy endures.

Which makes it odd that, apart from a sequel, some spin-offs and remasters, it’s taken this long for a proper third entry. Made by a development team comprising several key personnel from the original title, Homeworld 3 is a gorgeous paean to a niche genre. Battles take place in a variety of arenas that are much more interesting than the plain space of previous entries, and they include a giant starship graveyard bathed in the glowing fug of nearby suns, overseen by distant nebulae and vast galactic discs. The action is accompanied by winningly realistic radio chatter and an appropriately eerie soundtrack by original Homeworld composer Paul Ruskay. Ironically, for a game set in deep space, it’s seriously atmospheric.

The strategy itself starts off relatively easy to grasp, with the game gradually layering in new features and complexities over the brief campaign’s 13 missions (there’s plenty of multiplayer options for longevity). When the action inevitably overwhelms, players are free to use ‘tactical pause’ to gain some wiggle room. That’s also a good opportunity to safely take in the stunning vistas; it’s just a shame that the UI is a little too imperious, frequently blocking the view. Nevertheless, Homeworld 3 is a fitting return to form for this influential series.

Homeworld 3 is out now released by Gearbox Publishing on PC.