Star-Twine is unique to be sure, as the game’s game of out-positioning the enemy is definitely different from your typical real-time strategy traditions of resource collection and constructing tanks. Two turrets are needed to destroy an enemy structure and they have infinite range, so careful placement of these structures and the more defensive options (black holes and defenders) is paramount for success. There are lots of strategic options available in Star-Twine to keep your units protected while engaging the enemy; a delicate balance of offense and defense is necessary. Unfortunately, stalemates are common as income is capped at twelve energy nodes, a low number that is quickly reached by other sides. Then, the game becomes a battle of attrition, with either side losing and rebuilding turrets and hoping to flank the enemy. Star-Twine is really difficult, thanks to insufficient help (a brief tutorial and no manual) and a challenging AI opponent that excels at quick construction of turrets at the most inconvenient locations for you. The maps are randomly generated but don’t impact overall strategy at all, since there are normally lots of places to build. Star-Twine features online multiplayer (one-on-one only, though) but lacks a campaign, and a game this unique really needs a manual or in-game help. While I certainly applaud Star-Twine for its unique take on the real-time strategy formula, mid-game tedium and inadequate assistance to new players decreases its appeal to a wide audience.

The interdependencies of the units and how they interact in a 3D environment are intriguing.

Alas, the game is set up so that even a "casual gamer" will be unable to loose.

The AI intentionally builds more slowly than the player and therefore you will never have any trouble simply having more guns than the AI, and therefore killing it's units faster than it kills yours.

If it had the ability to play against itself with the camera moving around to show the action, it would be a decent screensaver but as a game it's unlikely to hold your attention for more than 2 hours tops.