Retro Replay Review

Gameplay

Chain of Command delivers a classic real-time tactics experience rooted in historical World War II scenarios. Over 20 missions, you lead American squads across both the harsh deserts of North Africa and the contested fields of the Western Front. Each mission adheres to a clear pattern: advance to designated map points, eliminate all enemy forces, then move on to the next objective. This straightforward goal structure keeps the action focused and requires careful planning, as rushing in without reconnaissance often leads to ambushes or costly casualties.

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The game’s unit roster comprises 20 distinct models per side, from nimble riflemen squads to hulking M4 Shermans and deadly anti-tank guns. Every unit has clear strengths and weaknesses—smaller infantry can be overwhelmed by artillery, while tanks without proper infantry support can be flanked and disabled. This rock-paper-scissors balance encourages players to mix formations, employ combined-arms tactics, and adapt on the fly when encountering specialized Nazi units like panzergrenadiers or Stuka-guided air strikes.

Control-wise, Chain of Command sticks to established genre conventions: left-click to select, right-click to move or attack, and context menus for specialized orders. Keyboard shortcuts unlock deeper commands—hold down keys to set ambush points, toggle formations, or call in artillery barrages. Though the interface occasionally feels dense for newcomers, veterans will appreciate the precision of issuing simultaneous orders to multiple squads and the ability to queue complex maneuver sequences without pausing the action.

Graphics

Visually, Chain of Command opts for a functional yet atmospheric representation of World War II battlefields. The maps feature rolling dunes, rocky outcroppings, and ruined villages in North Africa, contrasted by hedgerow-lined fields and bombed-out towns in Europe. Terrain elevation is clearly conveyed through shading and contour lines, which not only looks striking but also plays a crucial role in line-of-sight tactics and cover calculations.

Unit models are rendered with sufficient detail to distinguish between infantry, armored vehicles, and support guns at a glance. Tanks bear realistic turret shapes, and infantry uniforms reflect period-accurate equipment. Animations are serviceable: soldiers duck into firing stances, tanks swivel turrets and recoil with authentic jolt, and artillery shells kick up dust plumes, lending a palpable sense of weight to each engagement.

Special effects such as explosions, smoke trails, and muzzle flashes help enhance immersion without overwhelming the screen. Lighting changes dynamically from the scorching midday sun in desert missions to moody dusk skies on the Western Front, casting long shadows that matter for stealthy flanking maneuvers. Overall, the graphics strike a solid balance between clarity of information and historical ambiance.

Story

Chain of Command doesn’t attempt an epic, character-driven narrative; instead, it delivers a mission-based framework that highlights key Allied operations against Axis forces. Briefing texts set the stage, outlining high-level objectives and historical context—whether you’re securing a vital crossroads in Tunisia or breaking through the German Siegfried Line. These concise summaries ground each battle in real-world events without bogging down the pace.

Cutscenes are rare and limited to title cards with period photographs, allowing players’ tactics to serve as the true storytelling engine. As you push forward, the changing landscape of each mission—burning vehicles, scattered artillery craters, and captured enemy banners—builds a cumulative sense of momentum and sacrifice. In this way, Chain of Command conveys the harsh realities of war more through gameplay outcomes than through scripted drama.

Voiceovers during briefings and radio chatter mid-mission add flavor, though they remain utilitarian rather than emotive. You’ll hear concise commands and reports—“Squad B is pinned down!” or “Enemy armor approaching from the east!”—which reinforce the immediacy of frontline command. While fans seeking a deep narrative might find the story framework minimalistic, those who prefer to write their own tales of triumph and loss through strategic victories will appreciate the game’s restraint.

Overall Experience

Chain of Command stands out as a focused, no-nonsense entry in the real-time tactics genre. Its reliance on well-balanced unit interactions and clear mission design produces a steady learning curve that rewards both tactical foresight and quick reactions. There’s a satisfying mental puzzle in orchestrating combined-arms assaults, setting up ambushes, and coordinating artillery fire with infantry advances.

Replayability is high thanks to variable enemy placements and the freedom to deploy units in different formations. Players can experiment with defensive tactics—holding chokepoints behind sandbagged ridges—or adopt aggressive flanking maneuvers with scout squads leading the charge. This adaptability encourages multiple playthroughs as you refine strategies and tackle missions with fresh approaches.

While the game may lack flashy modern features like advanced physics destruction or cinematic storytelling, it more than makes up for these omissions through solid pacing and tactical depth. Chain of Command is tailor-made for enthusiasts of historical warfare who relish micromanaging squads, analyzing terrain, and outsmarting an enemy that never lets you get too comfortable. For anyone seeking an immersive WWII tactics title with plenty of strategic challenge, this game is a worthy addition to your collection.

Retro Replay Score

5.5/10