Sid Meier’s Gettysburg! (1997)

by Nish May 9, 2024

written by Nish May 9, 2024 4 minutes read

Summary

Release Year: 1997
Genres: Real Time Strategy (RTS), Strategy
Platforms: PC (Microsoft Windows)
Developers: Firaxis Games
Publishers: Electronic Arts

Sid Meier’s Gettysburg!: A Timeless Strategy Classic

Released in 1997, Sid Meier’s Gettysburg! is a real-time tactical computer game that allows players to experience the Battle of Gettysburg from the perspectives of either the Union or Confederate armies. Developed by Firaxis Games and published by Electronic Arts, Gettysburg! is known for its historical accuracy, engaging gameplay, and innovative features.

Gameplay

Gettysburg! is a turn-based strategy game in which players control units of soldiers on a hexagonal grid map. The game features a variety of unit types, each with its own strengths and weaknesses. Players must carefully manage their units and resources in order to achieve victory.

The game can be played in a variety of modes, including single scenarios, campaigns, and multiplayer. The campaign mode allows players to experience the Battle of Gettysburg from the perspectives of both the Union and Confederate armies. Players can also create their own custom scenarios and campaigns.

Historical Accuracy

Gettysburg! is known for its historical accuracy. The game’s maps are based on actual historical maps, and the unit types and tactics are based on real-world data. The game also includes a detailed historical encyclopedia that provides players with information about the battle and its participants.

Critical Reception

Gettysburg! was critically acclaimed upon its release. The game won the Origins Award for Best Strategy Computer Game of 1997, and it was praised for its historical accuracy, engaging gameplay, and innovative features. Gettysburg! is considered to be one of the best strategy games ever made, and it remains popular with gamers today.

Legacy

Gettysburg! has had a significant impact on the strategy game genre. The game’s innovative features, such as the fog of war and the ability to play from multiple perspectives, have been adopted by many other strategy games. Gettysburg! also helped to popularize the historical strategy genre, and it continues to inspire new games today.

Sid Meier’s Gettysburg! Today

Gettysburg! is still available for purchase today on GOG.com and Steam. The game has been updated over the years to run on modern computers, and it remains a popular choice for strategy gamers.

Conclusion

Sid Meier’s Gettysburg! is a classic strategy game that offers a unique and engaging experience. The game’s historical accuracy, engaging gameplay, and innovative features make it a must-play for any fan of strategy games. Whether you’re a history buff or just looking for a great game to play, Gettysburg! is sure to please.

Additional Information

Developer: Firaxis Games
Publisher: Electronic Arts
Release Date: 1997
Platforms: Windows, Mac OS
Genre: Real-time tactics
ESRB Rating: E for Everyone

Awards

Origins Award for Best Strategy Computer Game of 1997
Computer Gaming World’s Game of the Year
PC Gamer’s Game of the Year

Reviews

IGN: 9/10
GameSpot: 8.5/10
PC Gamer: 92/100

Review Score

9/10

Nish

Nish is a software engineer by day and avid gamer who loves to play video games after he puts his two boys to bed. His insights delve into the mechanics, and storytelling of the games he plays with the aim to share his passion with the audience. He loves to travel back to his native India and travel the country on his restored Royal Enfield Bullet 350, a relic from a simpler time, like some of the games he plays.