Previous Next

It seems that every second computer wargame that arrives from the States now is besotted with the German Wehrmacht, and this new release from Strategic Simulations is no exception. However, this minor criticism should in no way deter any one from buying Panzer Grenadier.

The Panzer Grenadiers of the Second World War were an elite mobile infantry force, trained to move with and support the powerful armoured divisions of the German army.

In this program, Roger Damon sets out accurately to simulate the desperate actions of this crack German force as it attempts to stem the Russian advance on the Eastern front.

You are given the option to either enter a saved game or start a new one choosing from one of five scenarios.

Each is set on the Eastern front after the massive German offensive of 1941/42 has ground to a halt, and the Russian steamroller has begun to gain momentum. The first scenario, Bridges over the Lutchessa, is an ideal introduction for the novice player.

You can select a level of play from one to three which caters adequately for beginners and experienced players alike.

SSI has moved away from the normal wargame screen format and given us a very good smooth scrolling terrain map with all features such as woods, ridges, roads and rivers very well depicted.

Troop types are represented by easily-recognisable icons, and all orders and moves are given via the joystick, which helps playability.

Play is broken down into eight phases which cover movement and firing for both sides, with a victory phase at the end which gives an assessment of your overall play.

As is usual in SSI games, opportunity is given at the end of each turn to save the game.

I rate Panzer Grenadier quite highly. The game is well packaged, and has a well-written, easy to follow instruction manual.

The program is strong both in graphics and playability. However, I find it hard to come to terms with the £35 (!) price tag.

Also there is no provision for the creation of your own scenarios, a major drawback in a game of this type.