TITLE: Computer Pacific War (DOS game that does run on
Windows XP)
PUBLISHER: Originally by Strategic Simulations Inc. (SSI)
then revised (v3.2) and republished as a free download by Matrix Games (Matrix
Games).
SCOPE: Operational game of WWII in the entire Pacific Theater
by weeks. Comparable to the SPI boardgame WAR IN THE PACFIC. This is not related
to the Victory Games title PACIFIC WAR
SSI/Matrix CATALOG DESCRIPTION: Gary Grigsby's Pacific
War: Matrix Edition covers virtually every aspect of the war and includes
just about every ship, aircraft, land unit, and important leader that took
part in the conflict. The game has a steep learning curve and not for the
faint at heart and has a lot to offer. If you every wanted to conduct the
whole War in the Pacific now is your chance.
GAME BOX DESCRIPTION:
YEAR PUBLISHED (EDITIONS): SSI Edition: XXXX; Matrix
Edition: February 2, 2003
CREDITS
Original Game Design: Gary Grisby
Game Development:
Artwork:
Box Art:
Typesetting: Colonial Composition
Printing: Monarch Services
Playtesting:
NUMBER OF PLAYERS: 1 or 2; Game does include an effective
Artificial Intelligence opponent. Computer can play either side and either
side can be give Help or Even More Help to balance. However after repeated
plays; an Human opponent will be desired. Players can give HQs either full
player control, full human control or something in between.
WGA COMPLEXITY SCALE (1-10):
TYPICAL PLAYING TIME (HOURS):
MAP SCALE: 1 Week
UNIT SCALE: Individual ships (CV through DE), groups of submarines,
air groups, Divisions, Regiments, Brigades.
TIME SCALE PER TURN:
NUMBER OF GAME TURNS:
ARTICLE LISTING: None yet identified
GAME INVENTORY: Self contained computer game.
WBC & AVALONCON HISTORY: Not Applicable
PBEM TOOLS:
The program is setup for secured PBEM play. Only one player can see the
battle details as it happens
but all battles results can be reviewed at any time.
PBEM OPPORTUNITES: I am looking for an
opponent.
WARGAME ACADEMY COMMENTS: I had played a campaign game
of WAR IN THE PACIFIC versus another player consuming a year's worth of Saturdays
in 1985 before I could make computer assist tools on my Apple IIe. Playing
the Allies, by 1944 I had to invest four hours of planning for a 5 minute
turn (when each ship last refitted, refueled, adjust progression of material
through the merchant pipelines, base improvement, airplane /ship construction,
etc. Computer PACIFIC WAR does most of this detail for you but allows you
to tweak airplane production choices. It is an excellent replacement for WAR
IN THE PACIFIC which is generally considered unplayable. Even cPCW may overwhelm
the light hearted as keeping ship types, ground units, air units where you
need them, when you needed them is critical for the Allies to maintain a schedule
towards victory.
WARGAME ACADEMY GAME TOOLS: I have made several to ease
my play. Most of the tools are customized for the Allied player which is the
only side I have played to date.
