Apocalypse Expansion Kit Vol. 2: Historical Scenarios - Chapter 1: Fall of Rome + Napoleon's Campaigns 1813

ZX Computing

Greg Turnbull

These are four new expansion programs, with data files, They MERGE with the main game. Unfortunately this takes a long time; and to play a different game you have to reload the whole lot! The advantage is that you essentially have five different games totaling some 400K. The rules are slightly altered, as are start conditions, which helps to keep you interested in playing out the situations again and again. This feature significantly extends the useful life of the program. Red Shift say it is selling as well now, as when it was first produced last year. In all four programs the centres are already distributed, and troops deployed for you. The players merely decided which empire or force they wish to assume then straight on with the play. Specifically the programs are: DECLINE AND FALL (OF ROME) Disease is the main change here. Although random its local effects are very significant on your troops. The combat phase is slightly changed. However it is still based on an input number of divisions used. This can be set by the player, and is perhaps not the most satisfactory method of deciding who wins a battle. NAPOLEON'S CAMPAIGNS Generals are introduced here, their symbols can be viewed on the main map. A time limit for play is introduced. As in real life the generals when defeated, may be either captured or escape. No Nukes are allowed in these early period wargames. WAR IN THE PACIFIC An airstrike option replaces the Nukes phase of the main program. Otherwise the rules are essentially the same. 1984 This is the most interesting of the new situations; and the most graphically effective. A world tension bar reflects changes in Europe. Wars and the use of Nukes increases the indicator; disarmament decreases it. If the bar turns red total global thermonuclear war ensues! This appears to be almost unavoidable in extended games; hopefully not representative of real life. The graphics of the world destruction are well done, and fun to watch. Overall some very useful additions to the Apocalypse range, and moderately priced too. Sadly no further expansions are planned as yet. However, future tapes should have M.code maps for increased speed during loading.