Antcolonygames Magazine Issue #2
| Category | Price | Seller | Device |
|---|---|---|---|
| Games | $2.99 | Silverpoint Graphics, LLC | iPhone, iPad, iPod |
This issues topic is the battles of Napoleon. The simulation is called Crossroads: The Battle of Quatre Bras.
Crossroads is a brigade level, operational simulation of the battle of Quatre Bras. You can play either the French or Allied side against a computer opponent.
Crossroads models the battle using classic hex & counter mechanics. These mechanics, in a variety of forms, are still in use today. What you get in this issue is a demonstration of the math that underlies these mechanics.
If you are a casual gamer, you will find a challenging computer opponent. If you like competitive play, you will learn ways to improve your skills. If you are a programmer or game designer interested in game AI (Artificial Intelligence), you will get enough detail that you can construct algorithms for your own projects.
Reviews
Consistently Excellent
CowBirdBoy
I often wrestle with war games to learn history's lessons. Ant Colony makes learning a game. I won't miss an issue.
Great History and Starter Wargame
Glenn55
If you are an experienced wargamer and you want a nuanced game with lots of replay value, go with a John Tiller game instead. But if you are interested in Napoleonic history and want a starter game with low unit and turn counts, then this is the app for you. The magazine itself has a well-written and succinct account of the context and battle of Quatre Bras, featuring a movie showing the schematic positions of units during the battle based on a reading of published accounts. The accompanying game is based on the simplest of the old Avalon Hill board games and the rules are presented in such detail that you could make up a map and counters and play it as an actual board game. The rules feature a targeting mechanic that provides a nice cross between having to fight all neighbors and being able to choose who to fight. The AI is credible and the scenario is perfectly balanced so that either side can win. The best part for beginners is the transparency. The game notes include details about how the AI chooses moves on its turn. Players plan out each complete turn before turning over to the computer for execution and can see the AI-assigned scores for their own moves before signing off on them. The AI makes optimal choices for the order of resolution for the attacks, which eliminates some of the micromanagement that is inherent in wargames. In summary, this is a great learning experience for both Napoleonic history and beginning wargaming.
Excellent old school Wargame with Magazine Article.
DrWarbo 13
Please continue to expand this series! This is exactly what I would love to see on tablets...
Excellent
Donczirr111
I love the old SPI feel. Blue and white banded tables, turn tracker, dead units box ... I really miss all of that stuff. Thanks so much for producing a product that evokes such memories. Fun and challenging game system as well. Hats off to you Antcolony !
