bit-tech Shopping: Nintendo Battalion Wars 2 (Wii)

Rating: 6

Time with product: 2 Months

Strengths: easy to pick up gameplay, cartoon graphics

Weaknesses: not too challenging as previous AW titles

Summary: Having played Advance Wars on the DS, I figured it would have similar but expanded gameplay since it was a console title. However, I guess they must have eased up a bit on the difficulty and strategic play that was part of the GBA and DS versions. To me, it?s a dumbed down version of the previous portable titles. If you?ve never played the AW in portable form, this Wii version is probably ok given the stereotypical Wii gamer is not a hardcore gamer. However, if you?re a fan of the portable versions of AW and it?s strategic elements, I?d steer clear.

Rating: 10

Time with product: 2

Strengths: Intuitive controls, great graphics, immersive game play.

Weaknesses: Battles can become a bit too chaotic. Minor camera angle issues.

Summary: Fun game overall. If you have WiFi, you can add to the enjoyment of playing on-line with others. Cut-scenes are a bit tedious and game play can get a bit frantic. My only advice is to take the time to learn the controls. The game has implemented the use of the Wiimote and Nunchuck quite brilliantly. I highly recommend adding this title to your library!

Rating: 8

Time with product: 2

Strengths: Wii remote control, great graphics

Weaknesses: None

Summary: Battalion Wars 2 is a worthy sequel to Battalion Wars on GameCube. It retains the core gameplay of the original game and takes advantage of the unique pointing feature of the Wii remote. The control is simplified and works better. The online multi-player mode is a nice addition but limited in functionality.If you enjoy the original game on GameCube, you will enjoy this sequel as well.

Rating: 6

Time with product: 1 Months

Strengths: Gameplay

Weaknesses: Some aspects of controls, no voice chat

Summary: Battalion Wars 2 is every bit as good as the first game and more. The game plays just like the first Battalion Wars for Gamecube, mixing third person action with mild real time strategy game elements. The new online mode is fun, but limited. The lack of online voice chat really takes away from the experience, especially on the few co-op levels. If you liked the first Battalion Wars, you'll no doubt enjoy this one as well.

Rating: 6

Time with product: 21 Days

Strengths: Unique Wii controls, fun cartoon style, easy to play, control characters and vehicles

Weaknesses: Repetitive, no same-screen multiplayer

Summary: Battalion Wars II, the sequel to a Gamecube game, does everything you would expect. Easy to pick up and play, the game puts in the shoes of a soldier with a unique Wii feel. Aiming is done with the Wii remote making it much more accurate and user-friendly than joystick shooters. However, the novelty soon wears off and while the game is still enjoyable, it doesn't quite reach the level of great Wii games like Wii Sports, Zelda or Zack and Wiki.