Decision in the Desert

This 8-bit Atari game will load up on your PC with Steam, but it has NOT been converted to play with a mouse and/or keyboard, so you can't actually PLAY it on your PC. Save your time and money and skip this one.

The game has a nasty game-breaking bug that locks up the simulation during the first attack in any scenario. Fortunately, there's an easy fix: 1. Navigate to the installation directory. 2. Open 'dosbox.conf' in any text editor. 3. Find the text string "cycles=4000" and change it to "cycles=auto". 4. Save the file, close it, and play the game as usual. Other than that, Decision in the Desert is pretty much the same as its predecessor, Crusade in Europe, with the twist of smaller—but more numerous—armies (lots of brigades with just a few divisions here and there). If you have played the previous game, you already know the drill. The game adds a new unit, mechanized infantry, so that's cool. New terrain types also make a first appearance here with airfields and escarpments. Airfields grant victory points when captured, while escarpment terrain simply slows units down. The micro can get a bit more time-consuming than in the prequel since you have to juggle around more units and orders because the brain-dead suicidal AI is kinda funky. Same offensively ugly graphics as before with a slightly different color palette to simulate the North African geography. It's OK for a game its age, but I—personally—prefer the charm of Crusade in Europe.

Don't get this game unless its for sale or unless you're a WW2 Buff interested in the North Africa Campaign between the British Italians and Germans. Also this is only the dos version which is the worst version. You should get the one for atari home computer either that or c64 on an emulator. The game uses the same engine as Crusade in Europe, Conflict in Vietnam and NATO commander. But Crusade in Europe is much better. The game features only five scenarios with only a few features. There is very very little variety. Its about as repetitive as Ring around the rosey or the hokey pokey. The only manuals available are for atari or commodore. If you want to play as the AXIS you must push Q button. Just like With Crusand and nam. Unfortunately it just doesn't do justice to WW2 the way Crusade does. I remember when My father bought it 30 years ago. he was very disappointed. He mistakenly thought it was about Desert Storm or wars in Israel. Instead it was just some lousy North African ww2 scenarios. Only get it if its on sale and if you're a history buff. Also you're better off getting the atari or commodore version than the dos version.

Classic Sid Meier <3

Decision in the Desert, released in 1985 by MicroProse and designed by Sid Meier and Ed Bever, is a real-time wargame that immerses players in the North African Campaign of World War II. As the second installment in MicroProse's "Command Series," it offers a tactical simulation experience that challenges players to command forces through five historically significant battles: Sidi Barrani, Operation Crusader, Gazala, First Alamein, and Alam Halfa. Each scenario is meticulously crafted to reflect the complexities and strategies of the real-life engagements, providing a rich historical context for the player. The game's real-time mechanics set it apart from many contemporaneous wargames, which often relied on turn-based systems. This design choice allows for a more dynamic and fluid battlefield, where decisions must be made swiftly, and the consequences of those decisions unfold in real-time. Players must manage resources, coordinate unit movements, and respond to the ever-changing conditions of the battlefield, all while keeping an eye on the clock. This approach not only heightens the tension but also provides a more immersive simulation of combat operations. A notable feature of Decision in the Desert is its emphasis on historical accuracy. The game includes detailed backgrounds for each scenario, offering insights into the events leading up to the battles and the strategic objectives of the opposing forces. This depth of information enriches the player's understanding of the historical context and adds an educational layer to the gameplay. Additionally, the game presents players with the option to command either the Axis or Allied forces, allowing for multiple perspectives on the same historical events. Graphically, the game utilizes a top-down view with simple yet effective representations of terrain and units. While the visuals are modest by today's standards, they were appropriate for the hardware capabilities of the time and serve their purpose in conveying the necessary information to the player. The interface is straightforward, with intuitive controls that enable players to focus on strategy and tactics without being hindered by complex menus or commands. The reception of Decision in the Desert was generally positive, with many praising its depth, realism, and the challenge it presented. Critics and players alike appreciated the game's commitment to historical fidelity and its innovative real-time gameplay mechanics. However, some noted that the game's steep learning curve could be daunting for newcomers to the genre. Despite this, it has maintained a dedicated following over the years, with enthusiasts continuing to appreciate its strategic depth and historical significance. In conclusion, Decision in the Desert stands as a testament to MicroProse's dedication to creating detailed and engaging simulations. Its blend of historical accuracy, real-time strategy, and immersive gameplay offers a compelling experience for those interested in military history and tactical wargaming. While it may not boast the advanced graphics and features of modern games, its depth and attention to detail ensure its place as a noteworthy title in the history of wargaming. Rating: 6/10