1602 A.D. (Windows)

The German design firm Sunflowers, publisher of the earlier Holiday Island, strike gold (and ore for that matter) once again with 1602 A.D..

1602 is presented in the trading sim style of earlier games such as Seven Cities of Gold and Gold of the Americas with a little bit of Pirates! Thrown in for good measure. While 1602 isn't afraid to show its influences, it doesn't stop an excellent interface and streamlined gameplay from shining through.

Unlike some of it’s predecessors, 1602 offers non-linear gameplay and a free trade system that is easy to use and easy to understand. 1602 is a great strategy game for someone who is just dipping his or her feet into the genre due to the game's almost non-existent micromanagement system.

This doesn't mar the game, but helps it instead by creating a light and competitive atmosphere. The graphics and soundtrack are near flawless and minus a few small historical inaccuracies, there are almost no quibbles to make about this wonderful game. Whether you're young or old, or whether you're a born adventurer or strategist, you'll easily fall in love with 1602 A.D..

Review By HOTUD