by Rainier Wong

Created on: June 13, 2008   Last Updated: June 23, 2008

Name of Game: Warbands
Type: Strategic Game
Publisher/Producer: Stimulus Response Games
Ratings: 3/5

Warbands is a game that test your skills as a commander of an army. You mission is to help the rebels of a once peaceful country Wardonia to defeat an enemy known as Muntu

GAME PLAY
Before I could really start playing, I had to read a story which appeared word for word. It would be nicer if there was a way of opting out of the story especially for repeat players. After reading the story, I had to read some instructions at the bottom of the screen on how to play the game which I had to endure every time I loaded the game. No, it was not because I was not smart enough to learn the game, but I was not given the chance of opting out of it. The instructions should be accessible as an option via a help link or button instead.

This game tests on how well you deploy your unit, To position one of your soldiers, you have to firstly click on him to get some squares around him. You then click on the square of the area you want to place him on. To shoot one of Muntu's soldier, you will have to place your soldier next to it. Although this game seems to be more appealing to children as per its graphics, it is also quite challenging as you have to be careful where to place your soldiers to avoid losing them. Also, you have to be careful not to double-click to select a soldier as this will locked him in his position. It will be better if I could drag the soldier to his position instead. Once you have position your soldiers, it will be Muntu's turn. Once, every soldier is in position, the shooting begins automatically. No mouse clicking or key pressing is required during this time.

GRAPHICS
In my opinion, the graphics give me the impression that this game is more for the kids. The field of play looks quite alright, but the soldiers do not have mouths and noses. Perhaps, this was done on purpose or the game writer was in a hurry to get the game on the market.

SOUND
The sound was quite alright, and theme song was quite melodious.

INNOVATION
I saw very little innovation for this game. The movement of the soldiers could have been made easier by allowing the player to drag each soldier into its position in a more flexible way. Also it would be better if the player had the option of not reading the instructions especially when he or she become an expert in the game. Some important game tips could also be included on the help screen instead of as part of the instructions that appeared in the caption at the bottom of the screen.

Although, the game could have been better, I still quite enjoy it especially the challenge of placing my soldiers in the best possible position. Overall I give this game a three out of five.

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