Order of Battle: World War II

The gameplay of this turn-based strategy game is generally praised for its depth and accessibility, offering a mix of naval, air, and ground combat mechanics that enhance strategic planning. Players appreciate the engaging scenarios and the introduction of supply and efficiency mechanics, although some criticize the high cost of DLCs and the repetitive nature of certain gameplay elements. Overall, while the game retains familiar mechanics from the Panzer series, it introduces enough innovation to keep it interesting for both novice and experienced players.

The graphics of the game receive mixed reviews, with many players noting that while they are decent and sometimes impressive, they do not stand out as exceptional. Some users appreciate the historical accuracy and detail in the visuals, while others criticize them as mediocre or outdated, especially compared to newer titles. Overall, the graphics are generally considered satisfactory for the genre, with a blend of attractive art design and functional aesthetics, but they may not meet the expectations of players seeking cutting-edge visuals.

The game boasts exceptional replayability, with a variety of campaigns, customizable difficulty settings, and a robust scenario editor that enhances the overall experience. Many users rate its replayability highly, often scoring it between 9/10 and 10/10, citing the engaging gameplay and numerous scenarios as key factors. However, some players note that the reliance on DLC for additional content can be a drawback, potentially limiting replayability for those unwilling to invest further.

The music in the game has received mixed reviews, with many players noting that while the sound effects are solid and fitting for the World War II theme, the soundtrack itself is often described as generic and lacking depth. Some users experienced technical issues, such as music stopping or restarting unexpectedly, which detracted from the overall experience. Overall, the music serves its purpose but leaves room for improvement, particularly in terms of variety and engagement.

The game's optimization has received significant criticism, with many users reporting performance issues, particularly on older hardware. Players have experienced lag, crashes, and slowdowns during larger battles, leading to frustration and a lack of recommendations. While some users found performance acceptable on mid-range PCs, the overall consensus highlights that the game suffers from serious optimization problems that detract from the experience.

The game's stability is a significant concern among users, with many reporting frequent crashes, framerate drops, and AI-related glitches that hinder gameplay. While some players have had a smooth experience on certain systems, the overall consensus highlights persistent bugs and a lack of effective developer support for troubleshooting issues. This has led to frustration, as players encounter unresolvable scenarios and prolonged turns due to AI malfunctions.

Players generally find the grinding aspect of the game to be tedious, particularly due to the slow movement of units and repetitive gameplay, which can lead to frustration during longer scenarios. While some appreciate the strategic depth and resource management elements, many feel that the grind detracts from the overall enjoyment, especially when progress feels stalled or when frequent restarts are necessary to succeed. Despite these criticisms, some players still find the experience enjoyable, particularly in the context of the game's strategic challenges.

Reviews highlight a mixed perception of the game's monetization strategy, with some players criticizing it as misleading and cash-grabbing, particularly regarding advertising and DLC content. However, others appreciate the absence of microtransactions, suggesting that the developers have opted for a more straightforward approach to monetization despite the need for income. Overall, while there are concerns about the game's financial practices, the lack of microtransactions is seen as a positive aspect by some players.

The humor in the game is derived from its nostalgic reliance on outdated tropes from the original Panzer General, creating a blend of absurdity and charm as players engage with the simplistic mechanics and whimsical portrayal of military operations. Users find the experience both amusing and ridiculous, highlighting the game's ability to evoke laughter through its retro style and quirky gameplay.

Reviewers note that while the game may lack the character and atmosphere of classic 8-bit titles, it does feature an atmospheric WWII soundtrack that enhances the overall experience.