This is going to be a short review, because there really isn't much to say about the new version of Risk for the computer.
The original version - for the Macintosh, in its beautiful monochromatic form and quick play - was a staple at my fraternity. But when the old Macs died, so did the game. I waited years for a PC version to arrive and when it did, I was there picking up my $40 copy.
I wasn't overly impressed with the original, but it was a reasonably good game. They overdid the graphics, which killed the speed and playability of the game (I ran into constant crashes), but introduced several very interesting variations such as new maps and missions, giving an old game new life. They also gave you the option of a type of attack you wanted to use. No longer was it simply a die-roll - it was a strategy thing - do you use a forward attack or a retreating ambush. The die rolls were of lesser concern than trying to out-think your opponent.
In general, the game play is pretty good. You get your territories in a manner similar to the board game: either picking in order or by random. After placing your initial pieces, you begin by placing your subsequent pieces (you get a certain number of reinforcements every round, based on how many territories you own) and then start your attack sequences. Attacking not only increases your territory and reinforcements, but it gives you a RISK card - you only get one when you take over at least one territory in a round. By matching three of these RISK cards (either one of each of the calvary, infantry and armor, or three of a kind), you get bonus armies. These prove essential later in the game.
The attack process is very easy. Simply click on the territories that you want to attack from and then select the countries that you want to attack. Fighting is a bit more simple and less exciting, simply clicking on a 'roll' button to roll the virtual dice and get your results.
After completing your turn (including attacks and reinforcements), you watch as the rest of the teams do their thing. You only get involved if they attack one of your countries, and then there is little that you can do other than click the roll button.
Version 2 may be more crash-proof, but they also removed many of the features that made the computer version so much better. Gone are both of the improvements above. Instead they have improved the graphics and online play (supposedly), and the AI (this is an improvement). You have a selection of 16 or so generals to fight against, each with their own temperament and fighting style (either aggressive and dumb or cagey & unpredictable or very honest and straightforward - that sort of thing).
They have also added a same-time element where you move at the same time as your opponents, giving the game a real-time feel. It doesn't help, other than making it a little harder.
Overall, the game took a serious step backwards, in my opinion. I am hoping that user feedback will direct Hasbro to combine the best features of these for a version 3 (with a discount for those people who bought the original versions). Until then, I would avoid this one unless you get it as a gift or for 99 cents with the purchase of the Ronco Potato Peeler.
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