Shock Force

[enigma6584]

I just got Bootie about two weeks ago. I waited this long due the the reported problems with initial release etc. I tried the new demo two weeks ago and was very interested in getting the full game. Bought the bundle which came with the "Marines Module."

That plus the latest patch puts version at 1.11.

Personally, I like it very much. There are some interesting calculations going on within the engine which give it a nice comparison with the depth we get with CMx1 series. The C2 functions are a hoot when playing as Syrians. Artillery support is quite well done and air support feature is pretty nice. One nice touch is the "radio chatter" the player hears when calling in artillery and/or air support from Blue side.

The Syrian players are definately at a disadvantage in terms of communications technology simulated (C2) and overall weapons sophistication but they do have some interesting TO&Es with the new Marine module added. I'm speaking specifically of the elite airborne special forces troops and equipment added to the game with the module. If the scenario builder does it right, the Syrians can indeed fight the U.S. troops to an advantage.

Trees and fauna now provide decent cover (LOS limitations) so one can use terrain to good advantage. Urban fighting is some of the best I've ever experienced in a tactical simulation and to see it all in beautiful 3D, including each indivdual soldier in a squad is superb! Setting up commands and waypoints is done well but could use some more "order functions" IMHO although I'm still learning and in no way know all the features yet. I'm still discovering some pretty cool stuff as we speak here. For example, soldiers using night vision equipment definately have an advantage in night time scenarios. You see the difference in gameplay in terms of what is discovered by what side.

I've noticed map sizes are getting bigger. Tried one the other day (an armor fight) on a map which was 3100 meters by 2800 meters so I was able to have a maneuvering fight. The Syrian T-90 can put up a fight with the M1s.

I am really looking forward to British module which will be coming out in the near future, not to mention that the new WW2 CM module coming up. I think the improvements and fixes with this series will keep it around for quite a while.

Just my opinion of course.