Summary
- Release Year: 1990
- Genres: Simulator, Strategy
- Platforms: Amiga, Amstrad CPC, Atari ST/STE, Commodore C64/128/MAX, DOS, ZX Spectrum
- Developers: Realtime Games Software Ltd.
- Publishers: Ocean
Battle Command (1990): A Tanker’s Tale
Released in 1990 by Cinemaware, Battle Command is a classic tank simulation game that puts you in the driver’s seat of a Mauler assault tank. Set in a fictional war-torn country, Battle Command tasks you with completing a series of missions, including destroying enemy tanks, capturing bridges, and rescuing hostages.
Gameplay
Battle Command is played from a third-person perspective, with the player controlling the Mauler tank from a behind-the-tank viewpoint. The game’s controls are simple and intuitive, with the player using the arrow keys to move the tank, the spacebar to fire the main gun, and the Z and X keys to control the tank’s turret.
The Mauler tank is a powerful weapon, but it is also slow and vulnerable to enemy fire. The player must carefully manage the tank’s speed and positioning in order to avoid getting hit. The tank can also be upgraded with a variety of weapons and equipment, including a more powerful main gun, a coaxial machine gun, and smoke grenades.
In addition to the main campaign, Battle Command also features a number of bonus missions and challenges. These missions can be played solo or cooperatively with a friend.
Graphics and Sound
Battle Command’s graphics are impressive for a game of its time. The game’s environments are detailed and realistic, and the tank models are well-animated. The game’s sound effects are also top-notch, with realistic explosions and gunfire.
Reception
Battle Command was a critical and commercial success upon its release. The game was praised for its realistic graphics, intense gameplay, and innovative use of CD-ROM technology. Battle Command was also a pioneer in the use of voice acting in video games.
Legacy
Battle Command is considered to be one of the best tank simulation games ever made. The game’s realistic graphics, intense gameplay, and innovative use of CD-ROM technology set a new standard for tank simulations. Battle Command also helped to popularize the use of voice acting in video games.
Tips for Playing Battle Command
- Use cover: The Mauler tank is slow and vulnerable to enemy fire. Make sure to use cover whenever possible to avoid getting hit.
- Manage your speed: The Mauler tank is slow, but it can be sped up by using the nitro boost. However, using the nitro boost too much can cause the tank to overheat.
- Upgrade your tank: The Mauler tank can be upgraded with a variety of weapons and equipment. Make sure to upgrade your tank as soon as possible to give yourself an edge in battle.
- Work with your team: Battle Command can be played cooperatively with a friend. Make sure to work together to complete the missions and achieve victory.
Conclusion
Battle Command is a classic tank simulation game that still holds up today. The game’s realistic graphics, intense gameplay, and innovative use of CD-ROM technology make it a must-play for fans of tank simulations and classic gaming.
Review Score
8.5/10