This game is similar to other games, such as a civil war variant. Both games focus heavily on strategy and politics, the player being able to control taxation, appointments of generals/ ambassadors to Europe and articles of confederacy along with the level of independence accepted.
The military system is quite simple, however the game and military aspects are extremely hard, however you can hire privateers and raise levies to try and fight against the huge British armies.
The political system is equally as hard, as you have to match the need of the people to have a representative from their area, and not an 'All New England' cabinet for example. Generals are also placed, but they have to be used in order of seniority, at the risk of offending the people. It is important to remember though, that some of the best generals, such as George Washington, are inferior in rank to the old guards of the American army.
When considering diplomatic policy the player can openly or covertly seek money and support from the European powers, however in order to curry their favor the American revolutionaries must prove themselves worthy and indeed an established order in the region. To do this the main way is to win military victories against the British, however stability and diplomatic success can also achieve support.
Social policies are also important, whether you reconcile with the 'Tories', or whether you ruthlessly suppress them, which ever is important as they are a constant anti American threat and are on the side of the British.
To the gameplay of this game I would give a resounding 9/10, it lacks a better military system, the politics, social and drafting/production system is very good.
The AI is very competent, you will find yourself challenged each time, and beaten most times, the objective is not always full independence, you may accept a partial independence and win the game, albeit with less 'points' and of course honor!
The graphics are simple yet effective and not hard on the eyes, easily understandable with the correct application of pictures to demonstrate each action/policy.
Overall I give this game, in the knowledge of its age, 8/10.
Written by:
~deadmeat1471
