World War 2: Frontline Command (Bitmap Brothers PC)

By PETER ELEY

(Herald rating: * * * * *)

In the early 90s, we paid $2000 for an AtariST, a computer that boasted a startling 512k of ram, no hard drive, and loaded its games off 1.44mb floppies.

Despite this, it ran one of the games I've enjoyed the most in some 15 years of writing about software. That title was Gods, a stylish platform game from the Bitmap Brothers.

The same company also produced Xenon, another great title for the Atari and its rival, the Amiga, and really made its mark with the graphically brilliant, if economically named, Z.

A few more games followed, but the brothers became known more for a strong back-catalogue rather than ground-breaking new titles. That should change with their latest title, Frontline Command. Remember Microsoft's Close Combat? It was the war game of choice for 30-something intellectuals.

Frontline Command is also a World War II game and has that sort of squad-based action, where morale, experience and tactical ability count for as much as firepower.

It is set in June 1944, when thousands of Allied troops were being dropped behind enemy lines in a precursor to Operation Overlord, the campaign to invade continental Europe and destroy Hitler's armies.

There are 25 single-player missions, which start on France's Channel beaches in 1944 and go through to Hitler's Eagle's Nest at Berchtesgarden in the Bavarian Alps in 1945.

There is a choice of modes, which let you play the game campaign-style in linear fashion or as standalone missions.

The game's artificial intelligence is impressive, and enemy forces know when to retreat or regroup and will be quick to capitalise on any mistakes you make.

The graphics are excellent, too, with superb detail, scanning and camera angles.

Frontline Command is a high-quality, realistic war game. While at times it can be complex, the game can be dumbed down for more casual players, yet still be enjoyed simply because it looks so good.

* Email Peter Eley