Liberty or Death

"Patrick Henry Would Have Been Proud!"

For those of you who do not know (and therefore, may be puzzled by my review title), Patrick Henry was the man who delivered the ''Give me liberty or give me death!'' speech. And if you watch the beginning there is a small clip of him delivering the speech. Just thought I would clarify for those who had no idea who I was talking about.

This game, as you may have inferred, is about the Revolutionary War between the Americans and the British. In this game you can choose to be either side, which I find neat. Both sides have their advantages and disadvantages - the American have great soldiers, very little money; the British have a lot of cash, but poor soldiers. Either way, this game will keep you entertained for a while... but is a tad confusing, but not TOO confusing. You should know the commands and controls within a day or two.

Graphics - 7/10
Not great, but not bad either. The American map is dead on in accuracy, and most of the portraits look like people, just a little more caricatured and cartoonish. The graphics are drab, though, but do not detract from the fun of the game. And for some characters, there is a portrait swap, and that cost the graphics department a few points. But graphics do not make this game.

Sound - 6/10
Each side has their own map music, but only one piece, and it does get monotonous after a while. The battle music however, varies a little, and has approx. 2 pieces. There isn't much sound-effects-wise in the game, mainly just gunshots, cannon blasts, and so on - the average battle noises. And due to the little variety in sounds and music, the sound category suffered.

Gameplay - 8/10
This is where the game picks up some steam. You have many options at your disposal here. You can grant a furlough or bonus to an officer to increase his Loyalty, send goods to another district, battle it out with the enemy, and much, much, much, more! But, it has a cost. High maintenance of each district and the confusing menus (they only have pictures, no words) brought Gameplay down a little.

If you are a history buff or a Strategy game fan, this game is worth you time. Play it now, so you can keep history the way it is, or change it!

Reviewer's Score: 7/10, Originally Posted: 07/01/02, Updated 03/16/03