The Hidden Gem
Posted: Thu Nov 14, 2013 3:40 am
I've always wanted to try this game, but after watching the you tube videos, it just never really grabbed me. I'm not a big demo person because I don't feel they give you the real depth of the game. They are usually enough to see if you like the mechanics, graphics, etc ... but unless they are full featured, I personally haven't had much luck with them. With this title being the Deal of the Week I decided to give it a go. Been looking for something different. So ... how soon does the new expansion come out ... I am ready to purchase now ... and yes I got Ghost Divisions too (felt guilty at getting the title at 50% off and used that to ease my conscience [:D]). I'm still getting my feet wet, but I can see this being one title I return to over and over again.
I usually don't like the idea of playing cards in a war game (just seems wrong to me) but it fits here. They have become part of my overall strategy and don't unbalance the scenarios. Played correctly, I can see where they could make or break a scenario ... almost like committing that reserve unit just at the right time.
The interface is not as intuitive as it could be. Having not played the board game, I think its just part of the normal learning curve. With a couple of play throughs of the tutorial scenarios, I was able to catch on without too much trouble.
The 3d graphics are nice though I find it difficult to see enemy units sometimes. The chit option does make that easier and with the option to flip back and forth with relative ease between the options, it quickly became a non-issue for me.
The scenario movies at the end are REALLY a nice feature. That was really a pleasant surprise. I really liked being able to watch the maneuvers and quickly found myself evaluating all the mistakes I made, how I should have done it, what I need to improve on ... that was really nice.
If you are on the fence about this title, I would have to recommend it. I hope the developers continue on with additional modules. I'd really like to see some Western Front, Pacific, or North African add-ons in the future. Rest assured, I will be purchasing them all on release day.
I usually don't like the idea of playing cards in a war game (just seems wrong to me) but it fits here. They have become part of my overall strategy and don't unbalance the scenarios. Played correctly, I can see where they could make or break a scenario ... almost like committing that reserve unit just at the right time.
The interface is not as intuitive as it could be. Having not played the board game, I think its just part of the normal learning curve. With a couple of play throughs of the tutorial scenarios, I was able to catch on without too much trouble.
The 3d graphics are nice though I find it difficult to see enemy units sometimes. The chit option does make that easier and with the option to flip back and forth with relative ease between the options, it quickly became a non-issue for me.
The scenario movies at the end are REALLY a nice feature. That was really a pleasant surprise. I really liked being able to watch the maneuvers and quickly found myself evaluating all the mistakes I made, how I should have done it, what I need to improve on ... that was really nice.
If you are on the fence about this title, I would have to recommend it. I hope the developers continue on with additional modules. I'd really like to see some Western Front, Pacific, or North African add-ons in the future. Rest assured, I will be purchasing them all on release day.