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Holiday Guide

Starcraft

If there is such a thing as an instant classic in the computer gaming world, Starcraft has all the marks of one. This real-time strategy, futuristic, space combat game follows in the footsteps of Blizzards Warcraft. All the elements of a great game are there: a compelling campaign storyline, diverse units with enough differences between species to require different strategies for each race, unit queues, heros, good graphics and music, multiplayer support, a campaign editor, above average AI in single player mode, and above all it’s a lot of fun to play. You can play one of three races: the Terran (humans), Zerg (an Alien-Insect type race) or Protoss (a psionic-type race), each of which has its own campaign and storyline. In addition there is the typical infighting between Terran groups. There isn’t much new in the game play area as it has all been done before (sometimes better), but Blizzard has put it all together in a very attractive and playable package. If your significant other hasn’t purchased this one yet, it should be high on your gift-giving list.

Commandos

In my humble opinion this is one of the best games released this year. However, depending on the source, this game has received anywhere from poor to excellent ratings. The major controversy seems to be what exactly this game is. Forget the advertising hype. Commandos is NOT a simulation of a WWII commandos setting. It is not a role playing game. It is a puzzle type game set in WWII and requires a considerable about of time and strategy to finish some of the devilishly difficult missions. Look at it more as a chess game with 2 to 6 pieces, each with unique strengths and weakness. Your job is to use those pieces (commandos) to solve the puzzle (mission) with NO losses on your side. There are multiple solutions to each mission and the setting and atmosphere are wonderful. This one kept me up late into the night – dying and restoring until I was finally able to complete the game. Forget about the scoring system as it’s a major weakness in the game and just sit back enjoy the atmosphere and challenge of the game. Try the stealthy approach, it’s most satisfying and extremely difficult, not because the AI is particularly good but because the opponents pieces (soldiers) are well placed. This game is highly recommended for strategy minded individuals. It is not for those looking for a simulation and definitely not for the action minded individual.

Warlords III: Darklord Rising

With a series that only gets better with each title, this is the cream of the crop in turn-based, fantasy warfare. W3: DLR is an addictive game, coming complete with all the bells and whistles. It has fantastic heroes, like Vampires, Necromancers, Monks or Paladins, who become more powerful with each level gained. They in turn can be equipped with a plethora of magical items such as Rings of Power, the Liche Crown or the Axe of Slaying. These items are found in dark crypts or as rewards from completing quests ranging from carrying a secret message to a nearby city or slaying an enemy hero. These Heroes lead your armies of Elven Archers, Wraiths, Dragons, Barbarian Hordes and even Ghost units. Castles are to be taken to provide a source of income and a base of operations. With four campaigns of 7-10 scenarios each and a random map generator, this title has a high replay value. And if that’s not enough, how about an easy to use, map/campaign editor. This title has it all.

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