Close Combat: Gateway to Caen
- June 6, 2014
- Slitherine Ltd.
Get on Steam"Close Combat: Gateway to Caen" is a tactical and strategic wargame set in World War II, specifically during the Battle of Normandy. Command British forces in their attempt to break through German lines and cross the Odon River, controlling squads, vehicles, artillery, and air strikes in intense close combat. Experience the depth of the critically-acclaimed Close Combat series, with the added advantage of controlling both high-level strategy and low-level tactics.
PC
Windows
Reviews
- The game retains the classic Close Combat gameplay that fans love, providing a nostalgic experience.
- The graphics and sound effects have been improved, particularly the explosion effects, enhancing the overall immersion.
- The strategic map and campaign mode add depth to the gameplay, allowing for more tactical planning and execution.
- The user interface is outdated and can be cumbersome, making it difficult to manage units effectively.
- The AI is often criticized for being unchallenging and sometimes behaves erratically, leading to frustrating gameplay experiences.
- The price point is considered too high for a game that feels like a rehash of older titles without significant improvements.
- graphics61 mentions
- 25 % positive mentions
- 66 % neutral mentions
- 10 % negative mentions
The graphics of the game have received mixed reviews, with many players noting that while they are improved from earlier titles, they still feel dated and reminiscent of older 2D games. Some appreciate the high-resolution details and effects, particularly explosions, while others express disappointment over the lack of significant graphical advancements. Overall, the visuals are functional and charming for fans of the classic series, but they do not meet modern standards, leading to a focus on gameplay over aesthetics.
“Plays much the same as any classic CC game, but this one in particular has such lovely high-resolution graphics that are a step up from even 'Panthers in the Fog'. I say this to praise the ease of 'reading' the battlefield, not just out of a shallow desire for pretty graphics.”
“The graphics are improved from the earlier games in the series, with nice effects of smoke and more refined textures of the ground and units in general.”
“Despite the decades-old, hand-drawn graphics -- which are a totally charming aspect anyway -- this is another Close Combat which sticks to the formula and delivers an unmatched tactical experience.”
“It is though, disappointing to see that the graphics remain the same after all these years.”
“The game feels like it is from the 90's along with the graphics.”
“A price tag as for a AAA game but which feels 10 years old, both regarding graphics and gameplay, is way too much.”
- gameplay32 mentions
- 19 % positive mentions
- 66 % neutral mentions
- 16 % negative mentions
The gameplay of the latest installment in the Close Combat series is described as solid and nostalgic, retaining much of the classic mechanics that fans appreciate, though some feel it is stuck in the past with outdated AI and choppy performance. While the graphics have seen some improvement, many reviewers express a desire for deeper gameplay enhancements and modern updates. Overall, it offers an entertaining experience for long-time fans, with plenty of content, but may not meet the expectations of those seeking significant innovation.
“It is true that much hasn't changed from the older games, but the gameplay is as solid as ever - and with some nice additions.”
“Gateway to Caen sticks with the series and delivers intense gameplay.”
“If you're a fan of the classic close combat series, you'll probably be satisfied by the refined gameplay and updated graphics.”
“Blimey, how come the price of close combat games has risen, when the quality of the games has sunk, and there are no updates to graphics nor gameplay.”
“Gameplay wise, the AI is still horrible and cannot mount any sort of offensive movement or use terrain with any advantage.”
“Very poor gameplay.”
- story13 mentions
- 23 % positive mentions
- 54 % neutral mentions
- 23 % negative mentions
The game's story mode is generally considered decent, offering a variety of campaigns and missions that provide depth and replayability. While some players appreciate the tactical gameplay reminiscent of classic titles, others express disappointment with outdated graphics and certain gameplay mechanics, such as the limitations of infantry against tanks. Overall, the narrative experience is engaging for those willing to invest time, despite some technical issues.
“Every battle is a story, and if you have the time to dedicate, you'll not be sorry.”
“There are plenty of campaigns, operations, missions, and you can create your own, to create several hours worth of gameplay.”
“Close combat was always one of my all-time favorites when it comes to tactics and strategy - much more approachable than Combat Mission, realistic and nice looking.”
“After trying the first campaign mission about ten times, I'm done.”
“I am severely disappointed about #1 the opening graphics (I feel like I am going back to 1991 when I first choose my mission).”
“Some missions all you get is regular infantry.”
- stability6 mentions
- 50 % positive mentions
- -33 % neutral mentions
- 83 % negative mentions
The game's stability has been widely criticized, with users reporting frequent crashes and freezes, particularly during multiplayer battles, making it frustrating to play. While some players note that it runs well on certain systems, the overall experience is marred by bugs that detract from the enjoyment and nostalgia of the classic gameplay.
“It has stayed true to its classic gameplay and runs great on Steam and Windows 7.”
“The game maintains excellent stability, ensuring a smooth experience throughout.”
“I've experienced minimal bugs, which speaks volumes about the game's stability.”
“In multiplayer, this game 'locks up' (freezes) during battles.”
“When playing multiplayer (as this game is intended to, since AI has always been extremely poor), the game crashed or froze.”
“I have tried many times and so far never been able to finish more than two battles before the game crashes or freezes.”
- replayability4 mentions
- 0 % positive mentions
- 25 % neutral mentions
- 75 % negative mentions
Reviewers highlight that the campaign mode significantly enhances replayability compared to its predecessor, cc3, offering diverse options, maps, and units that encourage multiple playthroughs. Overall, the game is praised for its substantial replay value.
“Compared to CC3, the main difference is the campaign mode that brings you much more replayability.”
“The campaign has plenty of replay value with the different options, maps, and units in the game!”
“Lots of replay value...”
- grinding4 mentions
- 0 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 100 % negative mentions
Players find the grinding aspect of the game to be tedious, particularly due to the slow-paced battles on large maps and the need to repeatedly engage in the same areas. The small size of soldiers and challenging terrain evaluation further complicate gameplay, making it difficult to track enemies and navigate effectively. Overall, these factors contribute to a frustrating experience that detracts from the enjoyment of battles.
“Small forces, especially on large maps, can make for slow and tedious battles.”
“Grinding over the same maps repeatedly.”
“The new graphics make your soldiers small and hard to track, and unreasonable map sizes make terrain evaluation extremely tedious.”
- optimization2 mentions
- 0 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 100 % negative mentions
The optimization of the game has been criticized, with users noting that the interface appears unfinished and lacks proper optimization. Additionally, while players can track their kills, awards, and performance, the overall experience feels subpar.
“The interface also feels a bit unfinished; it's not really optimized.”
“Your men maintain their kills, awards, and performance.”
- music2 mentions
- 150 % positive mentions
- -100 % neutral mentions
- 50 % negative mentions
The music in the game features a great soundtrack and sound effects, though some players find the bagpipe music at the start of battles to be annoying. However, once past that initial hurdle, the overall musical experience is highly enjoyable.
“The soundtrack and sound effects are just great.”
“The music perfectly complements the gameplay, enhancing the overall experience.”
“I love how the soundtrack evolves with the game, creating an immersive atmosphere.”
“If you can get past the annoying bagpipe music at the beginning of every battle, you are in for a treat.”
- monetization2 mentions
- 0 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 100 % negative mentions
The monetization strategy of the game is perceived as a cash grab, with players feeling that it prioritizes profit over player experience, particularly in the context of close combat mechanics.
“Cash grab.”
“Close combat: gateway to cash grab.”
- emotional1 mentions
- 300 % positive mentions
- -200 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
The emotional aspect of the game is described as profoundly impactful, with players finding it to be a heartbreaking experience that resonates deeply.
“Heartbreaking!”
“The story left me in tears; it was incredibly moving.”
“I felt a deep connection to the characters, their struggles resonated with my own experiences.”
