So much seems to depend on techs. A unit of the same type as the enemy will get decimated by platoon firing or being charged by a bayonetted enemy while still fitting their plug bayonettes.
Aye. While the level of unit variation leaves something to be desired (although admittedly, how much military variation was their in the 18th Century?) the technology tree is the great variable. The killing power of a simple line infantry platoon can be multiplied many times over once different firing drills are researched. Hell, a gaggle of untested militia with rank fire ability will wipe the floor with a line of veteran red coats lacking the tech.
I bought the game retail on the release date, have been playing it off and on, since. My thoughts/observations:
A.) Concept = A+.
B.) I dont like the user interface. This is probably just due to familiarity with Rome, Med, etc.
C.) Graphically, its outstanding even at medium settings.
D.) Ultra settings will, unfortunately, kill the best computers.
E.) I dont think Im a fan of the 'region capital' system. Far too often do I encounter really, really annoying (usually French
) single unit raids on my farms and such. I can see this becoming a sore spot of some significance when it comes to multiplayer.
F.) I dont much care for the 'theaters' (Americas, India, Europe, etc) system. I would have much preferred a simple globe - a single map where I could keep track of everything. I have a nasty habit of 'forgetting' about ancillary theaters.
G.) Naval combat is simple and time consuming, although a great option. I find that success is dependent upon position. Ordering a unit to attack another ship, leaving it to figure out how, usually ends in disaster. One is much better off sticking to historical methods of engagement (cross T, etc) which actually work very well.
H.) I do love the new trading potential - between raiding shipping lanes to acquiring ports in tertiary trade theaters.
Suppose I could think of more... but at the end of the day, I like it. I dont love it like I did Rome and, to a lesser extent, Med and Shogun, but its good.
Modders will have a ball with this one. Only a matter of time before the red coat and Brown Bess is replaced with a blue coat and an Enfield.
