First time playing Settlers II, I love it. It certainly has a unique approach to the strategy mechanics.
I agree the artwork is absolutely stunning, I often use the zoom-in key to watch my little fellows work!
I really loved the music, it reminds me so much of other strategy games of the time. Just wonderful. I only listened to the CD soundtrack (I can’t get MIDI to work on my system, I’ve tried!)
The game is easy enough to pick up, but takes some effort to master. By my tenth game (having to replay many a failed mission) I started getting the hang of things. By the 20th game it clicked that I can manipulate the military options to train all my soldiers in groups, making them stronger in combat.
I also discovered how to use storehouses strategically to keep reserve soldiers near conflict areas, where they fill empty posts much quicker.
This game offers so many possibilities for playing styles, it is well thought out and well executed.
The user interface gives me mixed feelings however. I appreciate the fact that you can place windows where you want, but it’s buggy. When a mission objective is reached and a briefing appears on screen, all your windows are unceremoniously closed. A fixed layout that isn’t buggy would be a better experience.
I’m only on mission VI, I will surely return to my missions over the course of the year. 8/10 ASCII stars ********
