Summary
- Release Year: 1989
- Genres: Simulator, Strategy, Tactical, Turn-based strategy (TBS)
- Platforms: Acorn Archimedes, Amiga, Atari ST/STE, DOS
- Developers: Turcan Research
- Publishers: SSI (Strategic Simulations, Inc.)
Waterloo (1989): A Tactical Masterpiece
Introduction
Released in 1989, Waterloo is a turn-based strategy game that simulates the famous Battle of Waterloo, fought on June 18, 1815, between the French army led by Napoleon Bonaparte and the Anglo-Allied army led by the Duke of Wellington. The game was developed by British studio Impressions Games and published by SSI.
Gameplay
Waterloo is played on a hexagonal grid representing the battlefield. Players control units representing infantry, cavalry, and artillery. Each unit has its own strengths and weaknesses, and players must carefully consider the terrain and the composition of their forces when making decisions.
The game offers a variety of scenarios, including the full historical battle of Waterloo as well as hypothetical scenarios that allow players to explore different outcomes. Players can also create their own custom scenarios.
Historical Accuracy
Waterloo is renowned for its historical accuracy. The game’s developers consulted with historians to ensure that the game faithfully recreates the battle, including the terrain, the units involved, and the overall flow of the battle.
The game also includes a detailed encyclopedia that provides information about the battle, the commanders involved, and the units that fought in it.
Critical Reception
Waterloo was a critical and commercial success. It was praised for its historical accuracy, its challenging gameplay, and its innovative use of 3D graphics.
The game received a score of 9/10 from Computer Gaming World, which called it “the best wargame ever created.” GameSpot gave the game a score of 8.5/10, saying that it “is a must-play for any fan of strategy games.”
Legacy
Waterloo is considered one of the greatest strategy games of all time. It has been praised for its historical accuracy, its challenging gameplay, and its innovative use of 3D graphics.
The game has been ported to a variety of platforms, including Windows, Mac, and Linux. It is also available on Steam.
Conclusion
Waterloo is a classic strategy game that has stood the test of time. Its historical accuracy, challenging gameplay, and innovative use of 3D graphics make it a must-play for any fan of the genre.
Additional Information
- Waterloo was the first game to use a true 3D engine for its graphics.
- The game’s developers used a variety of sources to ensure the game’s historical accuracy, including eyewitness accounts, maps, and military manuals.
- Waterloo has been used by military academies to teach students about the Battle of Waterloo.
Tips for Playing Waterloo
- Use the terrain to your advantage. Infantry units are strong in forests and urban areas, while cavalry units are more effective in open terrain.
- Pay attention to the morale of your units. Units with low morale are more likely to rout.
- Use your artillery to support your infantry and cavalry units. Artillery can be devastating against enemy formations.
- Be careful not to overextend your forces. Units that are too far from their supply lines are more likely to be defeated.
- Don’t be afraid to experiment with different tactics. There is no one-size-fits-all strategy that will work in every situation.
Review Score
8.5/10
Art
Cover Art
Screenshots
