Napoleon has been lauded as one of the greatest military leaders in history
and his exploits had a profound effect on the course of European history. In
spite of this, there has been surprisingly little treatment of his exploits in
the world of computer games. Strategy First and Breakaway Games try to rectify
this situation with Waterloo: Napoleon's Last Battle, which covers Napoleon's
most infamous defeat and one of history's most famous battles.
Waterloo is played in real-time, although the pace of the game can be set to
several different speed settings and commands can be given to units while the
game is paused. This strikes a balance between those who prefer more realistic
action and war gaming veterans who like to place a lot of thought into every
move - the game can essentially be played at a pace with which you are
comfortable.
Units can be selected and issued orders on the regimental or brigade level.
To order a unit to move, the mouse is placed on the unit and dragged to the
unit's desired new location. The unit's formation and speed are controlled by
icons which line the bottom of the game screen.
Waterloo places a large emphasis on the leaders present at the battle. The
leaders are used to move troops at the brigade level, rally routed units, and to
scout for enemy approaches. Such famous leaders as Napoleon and the Duke of
Wellington are represented in the game and contribute to its feel of
authenticity.
Veteran's of Sid Meier's Gettysburg will not have much trouble learning
Waterloo as the game is based on the Gettysburg engine. Waterloo's designers did
make changes to the game, though, to reflect the fact that Waterloo took place
nearly fifty years before Gettysburg. There are different formations available
and the game has an increased emphasis on cavalry - well timed and placed
cavalry charges are critical to success in Waterloo.
The game comes with over 30 scenarios of varying length and scope. These
include historical engagements which allow you to focus on a single part of the
battle or to replay it in its entirety, as well as some speculative scenarios of
the 'what if' variety. In addition, there is a scenario designer which allows
you to create your own custom battles
Page 2 »
