SGS Battle For: Stalingrad

About

"SGS Battle For: Stalingrad" is a tactical wargame set in one of WWII's most iconic battles. Players can command either German or Soviet forces in regiment, battalion, company, or platoon-sized units, with turns representing short periods of time. The game features a unique activation system where not all units can move and fight in a turn, adding a layer of strategy. Experience the intensity and significance of the Stalingrad battle in this authentic and challenging wargame.

Genres & Tags

Strategy

Play Modes

78%

Audience ScoreBased on 18 reviews

graphics2 positive mentions

story3 negative mentions

The game features great graphics, immersive atmosphere, and addictive gameplay mechanics that enhance the overall experience.
It includes a variety of tactical decisions and innovative mechanics, such as unit activation and army support, which add depth to the gameplay.
Smaller scenarios have been added, making it easier for newcomers to learn the game and enjoy the detailed combat mechanics.

The game suffers from a steep learning curve and a complex interface that can be difficult for new players to navigate without a proper manual.
The map and time scales do not accurately reflect the urban combat of Stalingrad, leading to gameplay that feels unrealistic and cumbersome.
Technical issues, such as frequent hangs during gameplay, detract from the overall experience and need to be addressed for smoother play.

gameplay
6 mentions Positive Neutral Negative
50%
50%
The gameplay features a rich combination of strategic elements, including card mechanics and tactical decision-making, which enhance depth and engagement. However, some players criticize the turn-based engine for its inefficiencies, particularly the time-consuming artillery plotting, which detracts from overall maneuverability. Despite these issues, the addictive nature of the gameplay and the variety of choices available are highlighted as strong points.
- “All the elements you would expect at Stalingrad are included through the use of cards and other mechanics.”
- “Great graphics, gameplay, and depth are here.”
- “Addictive gameplay mechanics with lots of variables (cards to be played) and tactical decisions (for example: will you spend 3 VP to bring Romanians into the fight at Rostov - 9 battalions)... I always play the grand campaign in turn-based games and discard small scenarios, but that's up to player preference!”
- “A more general issue I have is with the engine developed (specifically, IGOUGO instead of WEGO system of turns) for the franchise and many of the game mechanics.”
- “The plotting of artillery missions over the map also wastes game time for no gameplay return – it should be just select and assign.”
- “This mechanic doesn't really allow for breaking groups of units up to maneuver.”
story
6 mentions Positive Neutral Negative
50%
50%
The story is centered around the catastrophic consequences of war, particularly highlighting the impact of Hitler on the Wehrmacht, which is a narrative that emphasizes the importance of remembering historical events. However, players feel that the storytelling is hampered by limited strategic choices in artillery and air missions, which detracts from the overall gameplay experience. Additionally, there are suggestions for enhancing the reconnaissance model to create a more engaging and dynamic narrative.
- “The plotting of artillery missions over the map also wastes game time for no gameplay return – it should be just select and assign.”
- “Limited artillery and air mission choices: the employment of artillery and air assets is overly focused on direct support of combat missions.”
- “The reconnaissance model could be improved through the use of probing attacks, air reconnaissance missions, and sustained contact with opposing units.”
graphics
2 mentions Positive Neutral Negative
100%
The graphics are highly praised for their impressive quality, with exceptional artwork and detailed combat visuals that enhance the overall gameplay experience.
- “Great graphics, gameplay, and depth are here.”
- “The artwork and combat detail are amazing.”
atmosphere
2 mentions Positive Neutral Negative
100%
The game's atmosphere is described as over-the-top and visually stunning, creating an immersive experience that enhances its addictive quality.
- “It is over-the-top in atmosphere and drop-dead gorgeous.”
- “The atmosphere of the game is immersive and makes it addictive.”
replayability
1 mentions Positive Neutral Negative
300%
The game is perceived to have limited replayability, as it fails to innovate within the wargaming genre and is seen as a regression compared to past developments over the last 30 years.
- “In summary, for me, the game has limited replayability because it does little to move wargaming ahead; in fact, overall it’s a step backwards from where we were 30 years ago.”
- “The lack of diverse scenarios and outcomes makes it hard to justify multiple playthroughs.”
- “Once you've experienced the main storyline, there's little incentive to revisit the game.”