Replay question.

[stormbringer3]

I have been looking at this title as well as another Matrix title as a possible purchase. What I'd like is for some of the Hannibal gamers to give opinions about the long term replay of this game. Some of my favorite games, such as Steel Panthers, I have played on and off for years.

[anarchyintheuk]

There are only a couple of different strategies to play but given the immense number of rolls and the randomness of the cards individual games never feel alike to me. Just my $0.02. I still play it.

[Raidhaennor]

I concur ; and in addition to the option cards, I would also mention the AI as a factor in replay value. It's not just a passive obstacle, it plays to win ; so, not only the AI reacts to our moves, but we have to react to its moves as well. This creates a back-and-forth that adds a lot of diversity to the games played. And because of the quality of the AI, there is no risk of reaching a point when one might know the AI "tricks" and flaws, and take advantage of that ; every game requires vigilance, even after having won a few (or a lot). Each play is as fun - and requires just as much attention - as any other before.

I've played several dozen games since I bought it, and none has been exactly alike. I've played a lot when I first bought the game (and have gotten my money's worth), and I definitely see myself coming back to it from time to time for a quick game or two. My 2cts as well. [;)]

[nalivayko]

I have played around 60+ games easily. I do start seeing the trends, so I can't really agree about never reaching a point where you can't guess AI. In fact, while I agree about each game requiring diligence (I still lose armies to Romans sometime), you can start not only predicting AI behavior, but also forcing it to behave the way you want to.

And yet, AI is superb and cards do matter to replayability and 2-3 strategies available do often come with unexpected twists. And to top it all, the developer is constantly trying to imporve an already great game.

[PJJ]

This game has a really special AI. I'd go so far as to say it's the best AI in any game offered by Matrix - yes, even better than the AI in the Airborne Assault series of games. That alone greatly improves replayability, and of course the card play makes things interesting too.

Hannibal is not the same as Steel Panthers. Very few games have such incredible replayability as that old classic. However, if you are interested in ancient warfare and enjoy playing against a very challenging (often brutal) AI opponent, buy Hannibal. It's an excellent wargame with no annoying micromanagement at all and it has rules that make sense. I bought it as soon as it came out and have been playing it ever since. Not every day, but quite regularly. Definitely worth the money.

I'm sure the developers will appreciate all the support they get. My hope is that Hannibal will be start of a great series of enjoyable and original wargames. Something different from the typical hex-based WW2 strategy. [:)]

[Raidhaennor]

ORIGINAL: nalivayko

I have played around 60+ games easily. I do start seeing the trends, so I can't really agree about never reaching a point where you can't guess AI. In fact, while I agree about each game requiring diligence (I still lose armies to Romans sometime), you can start not only predicting AI behavior, but also forcing it to behave the way you want to.

What I trying to express is that I have never felt the need to have house rules, to avoid certain moves that the AI might not handle, or more generally to "take it easy" on the AI, in order to have a fun and challenging game ; even after having played many games.

[nalivayko]

Right on At the most, I sometimes allow myself Bruttium gambit or refrain from using Gallic Aid right away to wait for a second Macedon Aid card. Even then, all these "allowances" do have some long-term strategic advantages, so it's hardly "going easy on AI".

[stormbringer3]

Thanks for your opinions. I just ordered my physical copy and look forward to playing this game.