Medieval Lords: Soldier Kings of Europe

The Good
Its simplicity. This map-only game has a powerful feel of actually being a ruler in control of the world. Everything in it is basically - straight to the point, and if you check the manual, the research made by the makers show they were serious on making this game. Strange that something so simple doesn't bore you, like most strategy games.

The Bad
The only thing that bugs me is probably the limited time. Wish there was an unlimited time frame...

It not what I don't like, but it could of have been better, maybe a little smoother around the edges. A sequel would have been great!

To maximize gameplay, try to focus more on developing your provinces (all towns, don't bother wasting money on nobles and castles). Eventually, if you reach more than 50.000 soldiers, you are virtually unstoppable in conquering Europe. Which kinda takes the fun out of the challenge.

The Bottom Line
My rating for the game:

Graphics: C Yeah, what would you expect. Not that it really makes any difference anyway.

Informational Knowledge: A Yes, you can basically memorize every province from Spain to Saudi Arabia by playing this game. The manual does better.

Total Rating: B+ For those who respect older SuperB strategy games without much bother about the graphics...this is it.

The Good
Excellent historical detail, and surprising realism for its simplicity. Very simple, and straightforward. You can learn quite a lot about medieval Europe, from provinces, to plagues, to Mongol invasions while having a lot of fun.

The Bad
I would have liked more areas, or possibly a global map, with the option to play the same period in Asia, Polynesia, or The Americas.

The Bottom Line
Map based strategy game in which you must build a domain, creating infrastructure, and stability, before venturing out to conquer others. Excellent, fun, and very educational.