The BEST ACW video title ever created and a rival even for legendary titles like Europa Universalis....don't doubt me!
So going into this game I was a little skeptical. Especially when I read gamespot's review. But after heading to AGEOD's website and browsing their forums and several of their other titles, the old grognard in me just HAD to experience the game first hand. And I am happy to say....gamespot reviewers for one....obviously base their reviews on what main stream gamers will buy and not on a game's real quality....OR they are actually main stream, casual gamers themselves.
I have also been gaming ever since I was a kid. So I'd like to think my opinion is somewhat credible. Anyway....on to this great game.
Graphics:
Nothing AMAZING here, but also nothing to shrug at either. The 2-D map and unit art is VERY appealing and fits perfectly with the game's functionality. You get what you NEED from the graphics and nothing more....and in a pretty package. I admire that in a game. As an example....think...."Europa Universalis III" meets "Warlords" and you'll have a pretty good idea of what I mean.....or just check out the screen shots :)
Sound:
The Musical score in this game is repetitive, and can get rather annoying, but for those that have played it....you hardly notice because you're so into the game, strategizing each turn, that you hardly even notice the music at all...in fact it provides a nice atmosphere for "marching on Richmond" (or Washington I suppose :)_).
Gameplay:
Of course. This is where the game shines. AACW functions at an Operational level....where you issue orders to you forces and navigate a map split into several small regions....which are collected into different states....that are of course collected into Departments and finally the USA and CSA. This game revolves around a WEGO turn format where you and the AI, or you and a human opponent will plan your turns and then hit a little button and watch as the game processes the information and watch your plans carried out. The whole premise of the game is what can arguably be described as a major issue with modern strategy gaming that needs attention. The idea that you CAN'T CONTROL EVERYTHING. There are factors like leaders' attributes...combat performance....Orders compliance....weather....Economic Expansion.....disease....unit recruitment locations...that you cannot directly control in this game. Which some would shudder at....and at first it is admittedly, slightly unsettling, but in the end it makes for a MUCH more interesting experience. The only thing you can control is the amount of money your country's government invests in things, what policies it will pass, and how to set up your different generals and their commands to best succeed in the field.
The game is very involved...and quite complicated. So really wrapping your head around it will take a little time, but this process is very nicely aided by an AGEOD's American Civil War, Wikipedia site including the game's manual and several FAQ along with strategy and policy tips.
To those who don't understand what it was ACTUALLY like to execute a campaign in the 19th century will at first get a little chill of frustration as they sally forth deep into enemy territory only to find their armies melt away from disease and lack of supply from overstretched supply lines. Or when in December, their forces marching across snow covered hill country in Eastern Tennessee vanish as their virtual soldiers succumb to the cold of winter...and again a lack of supply.
Building an effective supply network and protecting it are crucial considerations when invading enemy territory in AACW and rightly so. Also understanding how best to approach an invasion...moving your vast armies through lightly developed regions with no road, rail or river connections will spell disaster. Overall, once you take your knocks learning how 19th century warfare worked...you will REALLY begin to enjoy the game.
The game offers options for the strict historian , or the more Wide-Open type player. Leaders statistics and abilities can be randomly generated to make for a different experience every time you play....so as the Union, you're not stuck with George McCellan creeping along Northern Virginia as skipper for the Army of the Potomac. Or possibly find General Robert E. Lee as nothing but an insignificant artillery commander with no use whatsoever.
As the Confederacy, you actually have a chance to influence the European powers like France and Britain to intervene on your behalf through events and policy decisions....but more importantly, through crushing victories on the battlefield.
The Command Structure of Army, Corps, Division plays a HUGE role in the effectiveness of your fighting formations and will directly influence the results of battles. Organization at these levels were paramount in efficient military operations in the 19th century.
So while offering you a learning experience in 19th century warfare, the game will NOT trap you in history. That was the "deal-sealer" on this title. There is a GREAT balance between Historical Authenticity and Playability. In this title, you are not just replaying history...you fell like you're making it.
So much to say about such a great game. I urge anyone out there who is a fan of strategy gaming to check out this title. While others have said it is mainly for the hardcore strategy gamer....I disagree. I love wargaming, that is true, but getting lost in the depth of a title like AACW will be inevitable for even the more casual of the strategy gaming community. I can confidently say that my search is over....I have found the strategy game that is head and feet above any other in history. I will mention that if anyone ever comes out with a hybrid ACW game combining the features offered by the above title and my SECOND favorite ACW series "Take Command"....let me know. :)
try....buy it.....whatever....just get some time with this title....you won't regret it.