War Plan Pacific – PC Game Review

Step by Step
War Plan Pacific’s simple battle mechanics direct players’ attention to strategic matters. Each side is racing against time. The Japanese must secure oil resources in Southeast Asia and hold them, along with the Philippines, before their six-month oil reserve is depleted. The Allies must keep sea lanes open by securing their bases west of Australia, or they’ll lose in six months. After August 1943, the Allies begin B-29 raids if they can establish bases on several islands. Japan can still triumph if a favorable force ratio can be attained anytime after March 1944.

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This multiplicity of goals creates a fascinating calculus of power and timing. With its powerful carrier striking force and initial surface fleet, Japan can gain the oil fields earlier. However, defending them and attempting to close the sea lanes early spreads her resources thin. With only one convoy a month and infrequent invasion forces and new ships, the Japanese can ill afford even a “tactical” victory if one of their fleet carriers, invasion forces or convoys is lost. The Allies face the opposite situation. They must raid Japanese bases to curb development and still husband their forces until American industry kicks in. Miracles won’t happen at Midway!

This game is not historically perfect. Events in China are absent, as is submarine warfare. Even with version 1.01.0123, British presence is too strong, with the Royal Navy even patrolling the Aleutians at times. Given the excellent AI and Network play, these points seem minor.

In addition to the historical game, two alternate scenarios provide additional play options—one with the Allies mobilized on December 7, 1941, and the other starting a few months after Pearl Harbor—assuring players a fine game. The Pacific Theater is finally accessible to all gamers!