Summary
- Release Year: 2001
- Genres: Adventure, Real Time Strategy (RTS), Strategy
- Platforms: Game Boy Advance, Wii U
- Developers: Genki
- Publishers: Nintendo
Napoleon: A Unique Real-Time Strategy Experience on the Game Boy Advance
Released in 2001, Napoleon is a real-time strategy game for the Game Boy Advance that stands out for its unique gameplay and historical setting. Developed by Genki and published by Nintendo, Napoleon lets players take control of the legendary French military leader as he commands his troops in battle.
Gameplay
Unlike traditional RTS games where players control an omnipotent force, Napoleon puts players in the role of the historical figure himself. This means that players must physically move Napoleon around the battlefield on horseback in order to command their troops. Napoleon can also heal some units and be healed by sub-commanders.
Another unique aspect of Napoleon’s gameplay is its simplified resource gathering system. Unlike most RTS games, players do not need to collect resources in order to build units. Instead, units are produced automatically over time. However, there are still limitations on how many units can be built at any given time.
One of the most important aspects of Napoleon’s gameplay is troop morale. Morale is a measure of how well a unit is fighting. Units with high morale will fight more effectively, while units with low morale will be more likely to retreat or be defeated. Napoleon can boost the morale of his troops by giving speeches or by winning battles.
Historical Setting
Although the game is named after the famous French military leader, Napoleon is not entirely historically accurate. The game’s missions often incorporate fantastical elements, such as monster summons. However, the game does feature some historically accurate elements, such as the inclusion of real-world locations and historical figures.
Reception
Napoleon received mixed reviews upon release. Some critics praised the game’s unique gameplay and historical setting, while others criticized its repetitive missions and lack of challenge. Despite the mixed reviews, Napoleon is still considered a cult classic among fans of the RTS genre.
Legacy
Napoleon’s legacy is one of innovation and experimentation. The game’s unique gameplay mechanics and historical setting helped to set it apart from other RTS games of the time. Napoleon also helped to popularize the RTS genre on portable consoles.
Napoleon in Super Smash Bros. Ultimate
Napoleon makes a cameo appearance in the Nintendo Switch game Super Smash Bros. Ultimate. He is featured as a spirit, which can be equipped to fighters to give them various stat boosts and abilities.
Conclusion
Napoleon is a unique and innovative real-time strategy game that stands out for its historical setting and gameplay mechanics. Although the game is not entirely historically accurate, it still offers a fun and challenging experience for fans of the genre. Napoleon’s legacy is one of innovation and experimentation, and the game continues to be enjoyed by fans today.
Additional Details
- Napoleon was released in two countries: France and Japan.
- The game is a Japanese Game Boy Advance launch title.
- Napoleon’s gameplay simplifies a number of real-time strategy game conventions while adding some of its own unique traits.
- Napoleon can only command his troops by going to each one individually, with the exception of the units which are grouped with another commander.
- Napoleon’s mobility is limited to how fast his horse can travel.
- The title is romanized as “Napoleon” in Super Smash Bros. Ultimate.
Review Score
7.5/10
Art
Cover Art
Screenshots
