Initial Perspective

[battlevonwar]

Starting my first game vs the AI:

Interesting map, layout, events and what not. So far as I've traversed Supply, terrain, logistics and what not very similar to other Strategic Command Titles and will be far worse here since a good deal of the map isn't covered by Rail or Riverine movement. Lots of little nuances here or there that bring flavor. I can see a lot of WW1 style possibilities but a HUGE map and that will definitely make for something interesting. I can see with a Human as the Union endless possibilities to destroy the economy of the South ...

As the South I can see if the Union isn't on her toes she can get outflanked early and well like the AI just did I've surrounded Washington in in 1861 and will probably win the game soon.

Interestingly, there is a lot of production and a lot of side theatres so hopefully that will bring depth there. I can see a long game being quite a challenge and for the price(quite reasonable) a decent title.

(Supply is a nightmare in this game)

P.S. The Union should probably win every game if she 'builds slowly and is cautious' ... as I don't see a lot of exploitable options so far. I'm sure an expert might figure them!

[Mithrilotter]

While alpha testing vs. two very good human players (Ryan & Bill), I won two and lost two as Union. The Union has to win or it loses.

In my opinion, the Confederates have at least an even chance (although I suspect that its slightly better than that). The Confederate can lose entire three States and still win (Missouri, Kentucky & Tennessee). The Confederates only have to avoid losing a few key victory cities. The Confederates begin with very good quality units and HQ's. Building just a few armored monitors can make the Union naval blockading very difficult and very expensive. The Union can't win without an effective blockade seriously reducing Confederate income. In addition, the Confederates do have a real chance at taking Washington, D.C. Just don't lose Richmond. The Confederates, both human and AI, lost every game in which they lost Richmond.