Harpoon (series)
Overview
The Harpoon series is a collection of naval and air warfare simulation games based on Larry Bond's miniatures game Harpoon. The series, which spans several decades and numerous iterations, is renowned for its attention to detail and realism, offering players an in-depth look at modern naval and air combat. The games are set in a variety of scenarios, from the Cold War to the present day, and feature a wide range of military hardware from around the world.
History
The Harpoon series was first introduced in 1989 by Three-Sixty Pacific, Inc., a company known for its military simulation games. The original Harpoon was based on a miniatures game of the same name by Larry Bond, a naval warfare expert and co-author of the Tom Clancy novel Red Storm Rising. The game was praised for its realism and depth, and quickly gained a following among military simulation enthusiasts.
Gameplay
The gameplay in the Harpoon series is complex and detailed, reflecting the intricacies of modern naval and air warfare. Players take on the role of a fleet commander, tasked with managing a variety of military assets in real-time combat scenarios. This includes everything from submarines and surface ships to aircraft and ground-based defenses.
The game is played on a two-dimensional map, with units represented by icons. Players must carefully manage their resources, plan their strategies, and react to enemy actions in real-time. The game includes a wide range of scenarios, from small skirmishes to full-scale conflicts, and features a detailed database of military hardware from around the world.
Reception
The Harpoon series has been well-received by critics and players alike, praised for its attention to detail and realism. The games are often cited as some of the best naval and air warfare simulations available, and have been used as training tools by military organizations around the world.
However, the series has also been criticized for its steep learning curve and complex interface, which can be daunting for new players. Despite this, the Harpoon series has maintained a dedicated following, and continues to be a popular choice among military simulation enthusiasts.
Legacy
The Harpoon series has had a significant impact on the military simulation genre, setting a high standard for realism and detail. The games have influenced a number of other titles, and have been used as a benchmark for naval and air warfare simulations.
The series has also had a lasting impact outside of the gaming world. The games have been used as training tools by military organizations around the world, and have even been cited in academic papers and studies on naval warfare.