First Impression: I WANT THIS GAME. [:D]
I'm fond of ETO Grand Strategy Games, but have never played any of the Strategic Command series. I read the tutorial, and skimmed the rest of the manual, then jumped right in! I have had to occasionally refer to the manual, but the system is intuitive: the tutorial and manuals are clear, and well written.
It has the right "feel," and is simply very fun to play. I'm playing on beginner, no computer help, so the AI is somewhat forgiving. I like the map, and the availability of information.
The decisions are a BIG plus, IMO. (I think) it will add a lot of replay possibilities, and atmosphere. I am uncertain how these will affect play, but it adds to the feel of running a war. The choices & outcomes appear well reasoned.
The reports that appear between turns are another treat; I like the idea of getting occasional advice from the high command. [:)]
The Dynamic Movement, and the zone of control rules work well...it creates very fluid situations.
I was delighted that the AI tried to sneak a Corps through the gap in the German West front...I managed to wipe it out, but it raised a bit of hell. Glad to see that the AI keeps me on my toes. It does not appear to react the same way every time
to a given situation.
I'm struggling with the charts/graphs...probably need to read how they ar supposed work (in the manual). I'd also like it if you could zoom in a bit more, but that's just me (and myopia).
I found a small glitch (bug, I guess), early in the game. The Italian 5th Army (In N. Africa) was moving from Tripoli to El Aghelia. After the end of the turn, it was floating in the Bay of Sirte. Not sure if I moved them by mouse clicking, but, next turn, I moved the unit back to land, and on to El Aghelia. I'll put this in the "report bugs," section, but I don't know yet if it has been already reported, and (worse still), dont know how to how to take a screen shot of part of the game, (or add comments to the shot), and then transfer it to a post. I see it in AAR's, and other posts. Looks like it would help explain situations a lot better than text.
Also, before I report it, I will try to do it again (I'm sure the Italians like swimming in the Med, so I'll see if I can replicate the glitch).
A small point: I think it would be reasonable to be able to stack 1 support/air unit with an Army or Corps. HOWEVER, the game is great as it is, and stacking may upset the balance...it just sometimes seem that there is a bit of congestion with HQ's, Air, and specialist units.
It will take my some time for to familiarize myself with the game, but at first look, it is Furheriffic! [:'(]
There is a lot of material covered in this game, but it manages to avoid micromanagement issues, and presents a 5-Star wargaming experience.
I'll be spending a LOT of time with this...great work. [&o][&o][&o]
