Steel Panthers III: Brigade Command 1939-1999 (PC)

GameSpot editors' review

• CNET editors' rating: 3.5 stars Very good
  Detailed editors' rating
  Overall score: 7.1 (3.5 stars)

• Reviewed by:
  Chet Thomas
• Reviewed on: 12/22/1997
• Updated on: 04/12/2000
• Released on: 10/31/1997
• Originally published on GameSpot: Steel Panthers III: Brigade Command 1939-1999 (PC) Review

Two years ago, Steel Panthers introduced the best tactical wargaming system around. Its success was the result of combining the hard-core data modeling of the best SSI games with an intuitive interface, good graphics, and a flexible scenario editor. Last year's Steel Panthers II further refined the system and added modern weapons to the World War II weapons of the original. It was a full leap forward for the system.

The latest entry in the series - Steel Panthers III: Brigade Command - feels more like a few baby steps forward than a full leap. The interface and graphics are from SPII, with units from both games. The point of SPIII is to broaden the scope of the system to encompass larger battles than the small-unit scale of the originals could handle. Some new gameplay elements have been introduced, but in the end it feels more like a "Deluxe" version or add-on pack than a full-fledged sequel, and that's a disappointment.

The nature of modern combined-forces warfare places command, control, communications, and intelligence (known as C3I) at the heart of tactical doctrine. C3I links the various weapons platforms and units into a single, well-coordinated force with greater power than the individual units could muster on their own. Creating a cohesive yet flexible plan, having skilled leaders with strong initiative, scouting the enemy, and keeping all units in contact with others are the basics of sound tactics. SP3 models all of these in greater depth than its predecessors, creating a game with nuances and greater realism.

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