My review from dooyoo - Battalion wars had quite a bit of hype from the launch of the wii. It was originally scheduled for a gamecube release but was held back as it was thought it would suit wii's control scheme better. It seems that people got sick of waiting for it as when it did eventually come out earlier this year it didn't sell very well!
This poor amount of sales isn't justified however as the game is actually pretty good. What you are offered here is a strategy game not unlike classics like red alert or age of empires. There is a twist however as even though you are responsible for all of your squads actions, you can take on the role of any member yourself and join the fight. When you start the campaign in the one player mode things are a bit slow. This is needed however as the controls take some getting used too. The first few missions will see you with a squad of foot soldiers and also maybe one tank or anti-aircraft gunner.
On missions you will find yourself defending certain areas or making your way through enemy terrain to take over a base. Specific tasks will have to be carried out along the way such as protecting certain members of your squad or destroying the enemy in a set time.
It is very easy to get used to the controls. You can switch to which ever unit of your squad you like at any given time. You also use simple commands such as wait, follow or attack to guide the rest of your troops through the mission. You will need to use your troops wisely to progress. Tanks are not all powerful, they have their weaknesses as everything else and it is your job to prevent these weaknesses being exploited!
Online play is a big factor in this game. It is the reason for so much hype. Players wanted to engage in co-op missions and battles, joining forces with their friends all over the world. However the online feature does not deliver. It is not nearly vast enough. There is a significant lack of options and if you are looking for online play the likes of strategy games on the PC you will be disappointed.
The graphics are sound and do the job with beautiful backdrops and levels. They are not realistic in anyway but those veteran gamers among you may imagine it to be like a very advanced version of metal slug.
All in all a decent game that should have done better. Perhaps you should wait till it goes on sale however!
More details
Addictiveness
Compulsive
Value for money
Good value
Longevity/Expected Longevity
1 month
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