Editing Star Trek: Bridge Commander (section)

==Gameplay==
[[File:Brcomm1.jpg|thumb|left|Main game screen, viewing from bridge]]
There are several gameplay modes in ''Bridge Commander'', with the main two means of control being the [[Bridge (nautical)|bridge]] view and the tactical view. While the bridge view has the player control the movements of the ship by interacting with members of the bridge crew, the tactical view changes to an external view allows the player to have direct control over the [[starship]]. A variety of [[shortcut key]]s work in the same manner in both modes. Additional modes in the game include the map mode and the cinematic mode, which removes the [[Graphical user interface|interface]] from being displayed and also switches to an [[Third-person (gaming)|external view]] of the ship.<ref>[[#Gibson2002|Rodriguez y Gibson (2002)]]: pp. 8-9</ref>

In the bridge view, most game functions are carried out by selecting an individual bridge officer, and selecting from a set of commands or options in order to control that individual's set of responsibilities.<ref>[[#Gibson2002|Rodriguez y Gibson (2002)]]: p. 10</ref> In this way, the game simulates being in command of a starship. For example, a player could issue the command to intercept a fleeing starship through the Helm menu, or order Lt. Felix Savali, the tactical officer to destroy an enemy ship. An [[Artificial intelligence in video games|artificial intelligence]] would then pilot the ship for the player.<ref>[[#Gibson2002|Rodriguez y Gibson (2002)]]: pp. 17-18</ref>

Bridge Commander incorporates a Quick Battle mode which is a combat simulation that allows the player to control any ship encountered during the course of the game. There is also a selection of a system which on rare occasions, incorporates their own unique hazards.<ref>{{cite book|title=Star Trek: Bridge Commander - Instruction Manual|date=February 2002|publisher=[[Activision]]|location=Santa Monica, California|pages=32–33}}</ref> Multiplayer allows for a maximum of 8 players over the internet to compete in one of four modes; [[Deathmatch (video games)|Deathmatch]], [[Team Deathmatch]], UFP vs Non-UFP Deathmatch and Defend the Starbase.<ref>{{cite book|title=Star Trek: Bridge Commander - Instruction Manual|date=February 2002|publisher=Activision|location=Santa Monica, California|pages=28–31}}</ref>

Players also have the option to switch to an external ship view, and carry out many piloting and weapons functions themselves. In this view, they are able to view various tactical indicators.