AC19: Random Video Game Series Review - Company of Heroes

So most times of the year when it is Christmas, Humble Bundle (a website that gives gamers bundles of games (largely those that are on Steam with occasional PlayStation ones on their latest console) they can buy with a majority of the money spent goes to charity) has a bundle that is made in partnership with the gaming group Yogscast called the Jingle Jam Bundle. The bundle plays out like a digital advent calendar in which gamers get some new games every day (most being on Steam or PlayStation's latest console as previously mentioned) alongside some vouchers, DLC and other great goods. So I thought to at least review some of their games in the bundle and today we are looking at two of them. Company of Heroes and its sequel were among many games released under THQ when they were still in operation as a game publisher. Its largely a strategy game so let's see what's in store for us:

Company of Heroes

The first game set in World War II, allows players to play as one of two playable factions while exploring the map to find resources, build base structures, produce new units and defeat the enemy (whomever that may be). Single player campaign has players play as one of three playable factions while taking part in the Battle of Normandy and the Allied liberation of France. Its a pretty big game, but that's what to be expected from a strategy game. Its good fun with simple gameplay mechanics and some decent graphics. It was widely regarded as one of the best PC games of 2006 and its clear why that is. Good fun all around I'm sure. 8/10

2

So following THQ filing for bankruptcy, Sega bought Relic Entertainment from them and thus also got the rights to Company of Heroes. So then came the sequel which is again set in World War II but with a focus on the Eastern Front. Players this time primarily control the side of the Soviet Red Army during various stages of this period from Operation Barbossa to the Battle of Berlin. Gameplay is largely the same as before, but with some enhancements and updated bits such as accumulating resources without the need to battle enemy forces. Weather plays a big part this time too with characters dying of frostbite (this is due to the historical events taking place during the winter) among other things. The game again is a big one and another good entry in what has so far been a good series (though I am yet to see the film). It largely repeats what the first game had, but as I said with a focus on a different part and expands and updates certain aspects. Overall, a good game but perhaps could have been something more. 8/10

Two game and one film does kind of make a decent franchise. Both games are good and great fun with some pretty spot on accuracy to the actual events that unfolded. Really good stuff, but probably not for everyone's taste. 8/10