Codename: PANZERS Phase One – PC – Preview


E3 2003
First Look

 

I was the fortunate reviewer who got to review Blitzkrieg by CDV games. It
really was a solid RTS title, and did a lot of unique things that have kept it interesting for me
even almost a month later. I was curious as to how another WWII RTS title could really be a lot
different, and there were some things that will help make Codename Panzers unique.

 

Basically, CP takes the WWII engine and incorporates it into full zooming and
rotating 3-D, enough to where you can almost get right up into someone’s face. The biggest
difference with CP though is in scaled down units. Basically, rather than have 50 infantry that you
have to move around and watch over … CP gives you a lot less to manage, but also makes it a lot more
“individually based” for character growth and promotion, and also to help give it a “do what you
want” style. For example, troops with flamethrowers can torch a tank until it heats up to the point
that the driver hops out. You can then kill the driver and steal his tank. Then, if the tank gets
damaged and you see a motorcycle sitting around … ditch the tank and grab the bike. The entire
environment is fully interactive, so grab, shoot, or destroy whatever you want.

 

Graphically, CP is shaping up to be
a powerhouse. Detail down to the scattering of shrapnel or vehicle parts when destroyed is being
incorporated, and some really cool touches like collapsing power lines and smoke rising like
tentacles from explosions are looking phenomenal. WWII RTS fans … keep your eye on this one.