Hearts of Iron II

Though it bears similarities in style and setting to its predecessor, at heart is a new game with incredible depth that is accessible to any dedicated strategy gamer now, thanks to the completely overhauled interface.

An exemplary game that's a must-buy for wargamers. [March 2005, p.70]

Few will tire of the almost endless possibilites available to England, Germany, Russia and so on. There will probably never be a more realistic and detailed WW2 game for the PC, and if this is the sort of thing that floats your boat, go buy it now.

If you're interested a day-by-day re-creation of what is arguably the most dramatic decade the world has ever known, presented in a staggering amount of detail using a complex and sophisticated simulation that affords all sorts of freedom for hypothetical situations, then you won't want to miss Hearts of Iron II.

The game is just amazing. I've always remained on the fringe of Paradox games, but after taking a deep look into Hearts of Iron II, I'm bordering on fanaticism.

Takes a totalitarian approach to warfare. It is not just about men or machines, but economy, supply and politics, too. This just might be the most finished, solid game from Paradox yet and is heartily recommended to those enjoying grand-scale strategic wargaming. [Feb 05]

The good news is it's deep and complicated in the way it should be: learning the subtleties of the game and becoming successful, not in just learning how to play the game.

One of the most in-depth strategy games around. There are so many different things you can do during the course of one game it is almost baffling.

Undeniably fantastic and a considerable improvement over the original game.

A historian’s best ticket to replaying some of the biggest what-ifs in the twentieth century. The depth in this game is almost unparalleled but it is a double-edged sword. At times, it can seem like the game is filled with a lot of waiting for production (when you put the game at the fastest speed) and a lot of micromanaging your troops (when you put the game at normal speed).

This game is Hardcore, with a capital H-Bomb. Hardcore to the extent that even hardcore gronards will need a few quiet nights with the manual before heading out to invade Poland. [March 2005, p.104]

As fun as it is for fans, novice players should give it a pass.

A solid, well polished WWII strategy title using the venerable Europa Universalis engine. It’s deep, it’s complex, and just a bit overwhelming.

By far the most complete RTS you’ll ever find. It makes "Civilization" look like a playground. Not for the light hearted mind.

This is a game for fans only, for better or worse, as it has some of the most relentless A.I. developed in an RTS.

If not for lingering issues with the steep learning curve, the barrage of information boxes, and a couple of bugs, this would undeniably be Paradox's finest hour.

The patient and detail-oriented strategy gamer will find a lot to love with Hearts of Iron 2, but it may be far too involved for the average player.

By far the best war-themed strategy game on the market, but it isn’t a game for those with short attention spans. If gamers can survive the learning curve, however, and show some patience, they will find one of the most fulfilling gaming experiences out there.

With incredible flexibility, freedom, and depth, this is a history buffs dream and should not be passed up if you are a fan of the genre.

With the scope of this title, the online support, the unmatched replay value-Hearts of Iron II should keep the most hardcore of strategy gamers satiated in fighting, researching and leading their respective nation to the top of the food chain.

One hell of a game; for all your WWII strategy needs, look no further. It's always refreshing to come across a game that'll last you a full year of serious gaming, if not longer.

Newcomers should stay far away, but hardcore RTS fans will find incredible depth.

While the strategy is surprisingly engaging and addictive, you do need a lot of stamina and patience to get there, which instantly alienates a huge number of potential buyers.

Does a great job of creating a game that simulates the experience of "Axis and Allies" the board game, just updated and enhanced with the power of a computer.

Yes, it targets a small audience, but it hits a bull's-eye.