Summary
- Release Year: 2007
- Genres: Strategy, Tactical
- Platforms: Mac, PC (Microsoft Windows)
- Developers: Paradox Development Studio
- Publishers: Paradox Interactive
Hearts of Iron II: Iron Cross: A Grand Strategy Masterpiece
Released in 2007, Hearts of Iron II: Iron Cross is a grand strategy wargame that allows players to take control of any nation during the tumultuous years of World War II. Developed by Paradox Interactive, Iron Cross is an expansion of the original Hearts of Iron II game, and it brings a host of new features and improvements to the already impressive base game.
Unprecedented Scope and Detail
One of the most striking features of Iron Cross is its sheer scope and detail. Players can choose to play as any of over 200 countries, from the major powers like the United States, Germany, and the Soviet Union, to smaller nations like Luxembourg, Nepal, and Siam. The game’s map is also incredibly detailed, with over 4,000 provinces to conquer, each with its own unique terrain, resources, and population.
Historical Accuracy and Realism
Iron Cross prides itself on its historical accuracy and realism. The game’s database is filled with thousands of historical events, leaders, and units, all of which are meticulously researched and modeled. The game’s AI is also top-notch, providing a challenging and immersive experience for players of all skill levels.
Deep and Complex Gameplay
Iron Cross offers a deep and complex gameplay experience that will appeal to both casual and hardcore strategy gamers. Players must manage their nation’s economy, diplomacy, and military, all while trying to achieve their strategic goals. The game’s tech tree is also incredibly detailed, with over 800 technologies to research, giving players a wide range of options for developing their nation’s military and economy.
New Features and Improvements
Iron Cross introduces a number of new features and improvements over the original Hearts of Iron II game. These include:
- New map: The new map is larger and more detailed than the original, with over 4,000 provinces to conquer.
- More events: Iron Cross adds over 6,000 new events to the game, making for a more dynamic and unpredictable experience.
- New tech tree: The new tech tree is more detailed and complex than the original, with over 800 technologies to research.
- New units and brigades: Iron Cross adds a number of new units and brigades to the game, including special units, infantry regiments, and heavy artillery.
- New AI: The new AI is more challenging and sophisticated than the original, providing a more immersive and realistic experience.
Critical Acclaim and Legacy
Hearts of Iron II: Iron Cross was met with critical acclaim upon its release, with many reviewers praising its scope, detail, and realism. The game has also been a commercial success, selling over 1 million copies worldwide. Iron Cross is considered by many to be one of the best grand strategy games ever made, and it continues to be enjoyed by a large and dedicated community of players.
Conclusion
Hearts of Iron II: Iron Cross is a truly epic grand strategy game that offers players an unparalleled level of scope, detail, and realism. Whether you’re a casual strategy gamer or a hardcore wargamer, Iron Cross is sure to provide you with hours of enjoyment.
Review Score
8.5/10
