Rui's review for "Gulf War Desert Storm" (1.3.1) by Han Han
"Gulf War Desert Storm" is a Modern Warfare and Offense-type map combined with a few Risk elements which attempts to portray, like the name indicates, the Gulf war.On this map, created by Han Han, you play one of many countries or organisations, from the United States to Iraq and Al-Qaeda. The objective is to capture your enemies' structures.
The game's ambient is good. While playing, you'll be listening to imported music instead of Warcraft III's regular soundtrack. In addition to that, you'll see custom models for buildings and units which fit nicely. Trees themselves, as well as neutral structures, are custom.This set makes up the terrain; the rest of it is composed of sand, dirt, and sometimes Rock Spires here and there (with unadjusted height, unfortunately). Perhaps some elevation could make a final touch?
On gameplay terms, I can no longer congratulate the author.Han Han (tried to) implement(ed) a custom attack system which forces the units to have mana in order to attack; mana represents their ammunition. The system failed to perform well on airplanes; these wouldn't be able to attack if their mana was upgraded. Still, it was a good step towards originality.The game became a laggy later game. This is why the ammo system, as well as the airplanes constant movement system left me with doubts regarding its functionality (the latter was also annoying; at least an option to land it on the airport should have been implemented). If the triggers are leak-free or not, the question remains.What displeased me most was, however, the game's balance. First of all, the Oil (Gold) available is too much in comparison to the amount needed to train units, vehicles and aircraft. Second, the mechanical units are too cheap. The game I played ended up with mass aircraft. Because of the fact units cannot attack aircraft (there are few things which can, I should note), its overuse is encouraged. I managed to get my hands on over 5000 Oil while tanks and bombing planes' costs range from 50 to 150.Yet another thing which bugged me were a pack of trucks sending nuclear missiles into my base. I could say they're imbalanced but you'd probably say I didn't use my oil, and well, it's a fact. But I still believe they are, as I've already said, too easily acquirable; these things actually destroyed a conquerable building... instead of capturing it.
Overall, I think this map has potential; balance issues aside, it is somewhat fun and certainly original and is enchanted by the good choice of imports. Right now, however, it needs revision. Bugs, green icons (F11 Allies panel, lumber icon), and spelling need to be revised. Suggested players could also be a little more informative...My rating is 2,5 out of 5, rounding up to 3 (Acceptable). I tested this map online with CloudWolf, CloudMax, Infinitynexus, OffGraphic, and DonDustin.