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Was OK in It's Day
UNFORTUNATELY, that day was long, LONG ago! And my memory of it was sadly lacking when I ordered it for a new computer. Just doesn't cut it with an interface right out of DOSS! If you are used to MODERN GAMING, you will use this for Frisbee practice.

Well made sub simulation
When it was first released, SH4 might have been flawed or unfinished, but not any more. Download and install the version 1.4 patch as soon as you install the game.

The graphic settings need to be configured when you first run the game as the default settings look pretty bad. I have a fast computer and video card so I run the game in 1920x1200 wide screen, which is supported by the game. Some of the textures have too much noise in them, giving a washed out look. Also many of the 3D indicators and dials don't use the full resolution, they are simply scaled up from a lower resolution. I think this is because they didn't want to play around with the field of view changes that would be required if they adjusted the scale to match the different resolutions. So the 3D look and feel is not spectacular, but it is still very good.

The game play is very well done, with options to micro-manage or automate quite a bit of it. Turning up the realism will make torpedo runs a difficult and hectic experience. This game accurately simulates programming the TDC and the difficulties in making accurate estimates. With the realism turned all the way up, evading enemy destroyer depth charge attacks is pretty well modeled, meaning it isn't easy, not not impossible either. The enemy AI is pretty good. The time compression function is really nice, allowing you to steam ahead at standard speed and still complete a trip in a short period of actual time. I've gone up as high as 2048x normal speed, it might go even higher.

With the realism dialed down, this game is a lot like the old Silent Service from Microprose in the 80's. You can look at the map and see where all the ships are, torpedo attacks are easy, and you don't worry about fuel or other logistics.

Don't be afraid of this game; at $20 it's a good deal if you are interested in the genre.

Campaign Mode game save buggy
In campaign mode you do frequent saves so that you don't have to recreate a weeks work of building up your character and crew. Alas, the save routine seems to recreate your position by fast forwarding thru a movie of your entire game from the beginning. The longer your campaign then the longer the restoration time and the more inevitable the game restore process crashes. And if it doesn't will it crash the next time? Total buzz kill.

Does Not Work
I was looking forward to this game. Installed it exactly as instructed and it did not work. Had my computer Doctor look at it to determine if I installed wrong. Could not find any problems on my side. Did not return it as I have been out of the country and it is now too late.
However... the company that sold it to me was excellent in their delivery date and the product was NEW.
Bernard Sands

Good Game
Its what i expected out of the silent hunter team, but there are still a few bugs to fix, when you get it then i suggest you get the patches also, the graphics are decent, the real time play is great. I enjoy the game. if you liked Silent Hunter I and II then you will like this