Economy in Generals

Supply trucks, transport helicopters, and supply depots are a new addition to the Command & Conquer universe. These will form the basis of the game's resource model--there's no tiberium or ore in Generals. Instead, each map will have several supply depots--really nothing more than large warehouses--where you'll be able to send your supply trucks or helicopters to in order to pick up construction materials so you can build your base structures and base weapons.

Another major change to the Command & Conquer gameplay formula will be the introduction of peon-class units: dozers and supply trucks. When you begin a game in Generals, no matter which side you choose, you'll automatically start with a bulldozer (USA and China), or if your GLA, you'll start with a "worker", as it's part of the command center. These dozers/workers performs the actual construction of all your buildings in the game--structures no longer build themselves. 

These dozers/workers will also let you build anywhere on the map you want. The dozer is lightly armored and will require protection. So sending your dozer off to build a SAM battery near an enemy's airport might not be the smartest play. The dozers/workers will also function as your repair units. Structures can no longer repair themselves when you tell them to, and you can build more of them at your construction yard if need be.

Each side has alternative ways to get supplies and resources to build units:

• U.S.: Regular supply routes are Chinook helicopter making supply runs to warehouses; alternative route is supply drops directly into the base.

• GLA: Regular routes are workers carrying boxes to the base; alternative route is the black market.

• China: Regular routes are supply trucks; alternative route is hackers stealing money off the Internet.