# EA Unveils Source Code for Classic *Command & Conquer* Games, Paving the Way for Modders and Preservation Efforts
Electronic Arts (EA) has taken a surprising yet positive initiative towards safeguarding its classic *Command & Conquer* (*C&C*) games by making their source code available on GitHub. This decision, which comes on the heels of the successful *Command & Conquer Remastered Collection* launched in 2020, demonstrates a renewed dedication to the real-time strategy (RTS) franchise and its loyal fan community.
## A New Chapter for *Command & Conquer* Modding
EA has often faced criticism regarding its approach to legacy titles, illustrated by the minimally enhanced *Sims Legacy Collection*. In contrast, the *C&C* series seems to be receiving a heightened level of attention. The availability of source code for *Tiberian Dawn*, *Red Alert*, *Renegade*, and *Generals/Zero Hour* on GitHub grants modders unparalleled access to the design and functionality of these classic RTS games.
This release, in conjunction with Steam Workshop support, opens doors to extensive modding possibilities. Fans are now enabled to create high-resolution textures, enhance refresh rates, and integrate modern graphical improvements. The opportunity for community-driven updates could rejuvenate these cherished titles, ensuring they stay playable on contemporary systems for the foreseeable future.
## Obstacles in Navigating Legacy Code
Even with these exhilarating opportunities, working with the *C&C* source code will present its share of challenges. The games were originally developed between 1995 and 2003 and depend on outdated components such as DirectX 5, the Greenleaf Communications Library, and the Borland Turbo Assembler (TASM 4.0). More recent titles like *Renegade* and *Generals* necessitate even more antiquated tools, including the SafeDisk API, the GameSpy SDK, and the RAD Miles Sound System SDK.
For seasoned modders and developers, delving into this code offers an intriguing insight into the hurdles of game development from the late 1990s and early 2000s. Some amusing artifacts have already been found, such as a “HACK ALERT!” message added to avert crashes in the Watcom IDE and a notably direct error-handling comment found in *Generals*’ *RampOptions.cpp* file:
“`cpp
if (TheRampOptions) {
// oh crap.
return;
}
“`
These snippets present a humorous yet enlightening view of the problem-solving tactics employed by previous developers.
## A Triumph for Game Preservation
In addition to modding, the publication of the *C&C* source code marks a pivotal advancement in game preservation. Open-source endeavors like [OpenRA](https://www.openra.net/) and [OpenSAGE](https://opensage.github.io/) have long sought to keep classic RTS games vibrant, but access to the original code will significantly bolster their initiatives.
Luke “CCHyper” Feenan, a prominent figure in the *C&C* community, worked alongside EA to ensure the code was in a build-ready format. He highlighted that this release will facilitate future patching and maintenance of the games, making them more accessible to new generations of players.
## Archival Footage and Community Involvement
Alongside the source code release, EA also unveiled [35 minutes of archival footage](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qN2gryZYz6g) from early iterations of *Generals* and *Renegade*. This rare look into the development journey adds further historical significance to the initiative.
The choice to share this footage, along with the source code, indicates that EA is prepared to meaningfully engage with the *C&C* community. While there have been no announcements regarding new *C&C* titles, this gesture may reflect a readiness to support the franchise in ways that extend beyond mere re-releases.
## Conclusion
EA’s choice to release the *Command & Conquer* source code is a unique and admirable action within the gaming industry. By equipping modders and preservationists with the means to update and maintain these classic RTS games, EA is working to secure their viability in an age when many older titles risk becoming obsolete due to technological shifts.
With the appropriate blend of community enthusiasm and corporate backing, *Command & Conquer* may continue to flourish, demonstrating that even under the guidance of a major publisher, classic games can still experience resurgence.
