Engineering Victory

The Armored Task Force engine is one of the most complete, and completely baffling, systems in modern computer wargaming. Its versatility is demonstrated by its ability to simulate both armored combat in the Korea of the near future in Raging Tiger (Shrapnel/3 stars) and the infantry encounters of the recent past in Falklands War 1982 (3 stars). Both games are heavy on menus, options, and multiple mouse clicks for a single task. And both are best left to veteran wargamers.
Once you get over the initial confusion and find your bearings, you find rewarding games that are hampered by a lackluster AI. All of the scenarios really come down to proper planning—like real wars do—and recognizing when your plan has gone to hell. Some game fudges, like knowing your enemy’s line of sight, make the planning easier. The real-world difficulties in coordinating artillery strikes and ground assaults make it harder.
The computer opponents tend to stick with their plan even when it’s not working. This is common in wargames, which doesn’t make it any less annoying. Assaults are more interesting than defenses, and each scenario is balanced enough to keep you on your toes.
Still, only the hardcore need enlist. And bring a partner to fight against.

This article originally appeared in Computer Games Magazine #181