I can’t speak highly enough about Call of Duty 4’s lobby system (minus the bugs). It’s really perfect for clan matchups. Our clan played the 360 version for about 3 hours last night on public servers, and it was some of the best online gaming I’ve ever experienced. I still suck though…
I played some of the Insurgency mod for the Source engine last night. It has potential, but I can’t get past the poor animation and the fact that I couldn’t tell who I was supposed to be shooting. Could be a winner at some point, though.
Yes, fear. How many of you have played paintball or airsoft? One thing that really stays with you after the game is over is that haunting memory brought on by the sheer adrenaline rush of being shot at. “Bullets” slamming into the wall/tree/bunker near your head. The cries for help by your teammates as they get mowed down only yards away. The feel of dread as you realize you really don’t have any idea where those bullets were coming from, almost like you can feel your enemy’s eyes focused on you. FEAR!
I’m looking for a FPS that can scare the heck out of you. Realism is the way to do it. Immersion should be the main goal. FEAR should be the final result.
I’ll agree that immersion is really the key for me in Tactical shooters – and I think that’s probably true for most fans. We play these games as simulations more than anything else, so graphics, sound, ambiance, and real emotional response are alot more important than something that’s approached more as just a “game” – so fear can definitely be a big component for me. I also like a real feeling of chaos. If a game can serve up some believable chaos, the player can get a whole range of real-life emotional reactions. Then, if the player can use his brains and skills to bring order to that chaos, that’s huge. Overcoming fear, panic, being overwhelmed… all that stuff is what makes a great tactical gaming experience, in my opinion.
Which brings up a very interesting question: When a game developer is forced to choose between reaslism that could potentially hurt gameplay, which one should he choose? Where does the balance between realism and gameplay stand? Where do you draw the line?
This is a HUGE question for game developers out there, and probably depends largely on the particular project, but it’s interesting to think about nonetheless.
Yeah, they’re realistic – which I want – but they were frustrating nonetheless. I prefer an aimpoint in game (although I have trouble with the whole “both eyes open” concept in real life for some reason)
As far as the realism / gameplay thing, I always thought that it’s a game first. It’s got to be compelling as a game before it can succeed with an audience, so I personally don’t think you can sacrifice the fun factor purely for extreme realism. That said, I’ll take my fun as realistic as possible…
Good point. I think the real challenge is simulating reality in a way that makes it effortless… or at least as effortless as it is in real life. Obviously in real life it doesn’t take a whole lot of effort to point a gun, so it shouldn’t take a lot of effort in-game either. If you have to bend the rules a little bit to simulate this effortlessness, then you should do so. On the other hand, it actually takes some skill and effort to hit a target from two hundred yards with an assault rifle, likewise it should require an equivalent amount of effort in-game.
I installed X-Com last night. I might play a little this week, if it will actually run in Vista. What’s really interesting is this: http://sourceforge.net/project/showfiles.php?group_id=23295. It’s a multiplayer engine that runs all the old X-Com maps in 640×480. I ran it for a minute or two last night, but couldn’t figure out how to start a match.
I honestly don’t know if there has ever been a better game than the original X-Com.
TGP Episode 3 was a little disapointing in my oppion – but it was funny! 🙂
There is nothing more to “the perfect tactical shooter” than a streamlined interface and some immersion?
What about ballistics/penetration, weapon handling, pace´n ´stuff?
What I really wanted to say is, that I pretty much enjoy your show.
Now get to work for the next episode or at least do some new texures for INF 3.0! 😉
You know, as much as I enjoyed doing that episode, I definitely think we would have benefitted from having an outline for it, so we could have covered more aspects. We have been getting better at the preparation phase though…
That’s probably a topic we’ll revisit down the road. Maybe we’ll quickly summarize our stuff from episode 3 and then get more detailed and organized about it and do it every so often.
As for INF 3… I think the INF ship sailed a loooong time ago. That being said, we both talk about wanting to have a limited role in some future mod or small scale game development, time permitting.
Hey guys, Love the podcast! Downloaded last night and listened to all of them. I liked all of them, and hope you make more for 08 and beyond.
Love the website and the concept asit is right up my street. Love Rainbow Six Vegas, GRAW and GRAW2. If you guys want to get some co-op on GRAW or GRAW2 I just want you to know I will play, XBL Gamertag – The Anderlation. Send me a Friend Request if you like.
Anyway hopefully, you implement a forum system when you feel it ius right to start one. Keep the website updated and the podcasts coming. You guys are on my favourites in IE.
Have you watched the new Developer Diary for Vegas 2? I think they got the right idea going on. And considering how many hours I got out of the original, I think this will top that.
Just checked it out, and left my comment in the article. Overall definetly must have in my book. It may seem like just a new upgrade to soem people or Vegas 1.5, but to me I used to gobble up the Rainbow Expansions as they were worthy of the price, for the amount of levels, features and content. This seems to follow them trends.
I don’t know if its tactical or not, but Advance Wars: Days of Ruin just released some new info. I loved the first two (I only got to play the DS version on my friends DS, cuz I don’t have one) and I think there about the most tactical thing on Nintendo. But anyway, new info was released.
I finally finished COD4 single player and have hoped onto Multiplayer. Have to say it is awesome! I love it and it has me hooked! I am not really a team deathmatch or adversial player but this is keeping me occupied. So been playing that at the weekend.
And secondly I picked up my copy of SWAT4 with the expansion pack. Just installed it.
Sad news is that whilst in work, I took a chunk out of my index finger, (nothing serious! – just a fair bit of skin.) So I physically can’t hold the 360 pad or press w,a,s,d in the way you would with SWAT. So just continuing to play C&C: Generals.
Happy gaming everyone for this week! And Martin, call the damn MS support line!
Anderlation – I LOVED C&C Generals! I completely forgot about that one. A coworker and I would play that during slow times, back when that came out.
Sorry to hear about your finger, but glad to hear you picked up SWAT. One thing to keep in mind with the SWAT games is that you’re going to need to tell your teammates what to do at all times. It’s similar to teammate AI in R6V, but they need a touch more instruction.
Blackguard Spork – I have heard nothing but great things about that series. I can’t wait to get a copy. Sadly, I think my gaming budget is tapped for a bit. There have just been too many good games these past few months… Can you give us a synopsis on it?
Yeah, I played the SWAT4 demo, just to test if I could play at very high and such and was really impressed with the game.
Can’t wait to tuck into some SWAT4 action, and hopefully find an online coop lobby. Heard it is meant to be really good online, if played the right way of course.
Also just want to add, good job with adding to thew tactical gamer guide, with The Sum of All Fears. Hope that you guys update over the coming months.
– Just a side note, Mercenaries 2 just doesn’t look that appealing to me, it looks like a very forgetable experience waiting to happen. Which is sad, as number 1 was an above average game. I am just not pumped for it what so ever.
We should schedule a co-op SWAT 4 game. I’m sure Martin would be up for that one too, since it will run on his PC and he’s currently missing an Xbox…
And thanks about the Guide. It’s something I want to keep updated on a weekly basis. I think I’m going to have to organize it a bit better soon though…
Yeah I wouldn’t mind that at all. Also Chris, you need to pester Martin to get phoning MS up to get a replacement. After all some big games are coming out within the next 3 months. I heard it takes you guys in the states 4-6 weeks to get it sent off and returned. I had to do it once and got mine sent and returned within a week. Live in the UK btw 😉
Synopsis of AW: Basically you have a list of Units (Like basic infantry, anti-vehicle, APC, Light and Heavy Tanks, light and Heavy Artillery, Bomber, Fighters, Transport Helicopters, Attack Helos, Subs, Destroyers, Battle Ships, Transport ships and some other stuff.) And a CO that have different CO powers that you get for winning battles, capturing cities and what not. Some of the CO powers include all units healing, doubling artillery range, increasing movement and capturing speeds, among others. You go and capture cities, barracks, airports, shipyards and vehicle depots to get money and units.
Like most strategy games, its one big game of Rock, Paper, Scissors. You get this battle force and have to either Capture 75% of all buildings, or take the enemy HQ or just killing so many troops (depending on the objective).
You can have up to four forces duking it out for control. Sorry, but my words can’t give it justice. You have to try it. Its a rather simple concept, but you can have some good strategies and tough battles.
I made a pencil an paper version of the game that used only graph paper, colored pencils and a six sided die. It became the official pastime of my 8th grade class. But anyhow, its defiantly worth a try. There awesome games. Hours of enjoyment are there.
The one we settled on is called AT-43. This system has pre-painted stuff and an overall aesthetic that I really enjoy (none of the hyper-gothic overtones of Warhammer that kind of annoyed me). From, the introduction games we’ve managed to play through (we don’t have a terrible amount of time between the two of us), it’s pretty fun and has some definite room for tactics and the like.
My brother used to play a lot of Warhammer 40K back when we were in high-school, but I could never get into it because of the cost and the time expenditure for painting the miniatures. It was a fun to play with his stuff, but I could never be convinced to field my own army. AT-43 isn’t terribly much cheaper than Warhammer (I found a decent deal on eBay to get a hold of the starter box and a few extra stuff), but at least I don’t have to paint crap which is huge for me. Also, compared to my dim memories of the Warhammer system, AT-43 has a pretty decent system where instead of moving your army in a turn, each player alternates which squad they move so it’s a lot more “real time” than other systems.
Expect some reports as he and I get more into it. I’ve always loved the tactile feel of playing with miniatures on a table instead of a computer game, and hopefully this is a system I don’t mind getting into.
Now excuse me while I find my pocket protector and suspenders.
Sounds like fun. But I probably won’t get into it. Right now I’m making a tactical conversion rule set for d20 Modern (Yes, its even geeky-er). Also, anyone else looking foreword to “Left 4 Dead”? I’m not sure if it will be tactical, but it is squad based, co-op survival horror… who knows?
Yeah, Valve does make some awesome games. I just with they would port more over to the 360, because my comp isn’t up to par right now… On a total tangent, I think that the Half Life series could make a good RTS. But that’s just me.
I am looking forward to Left 4 Dead. I think I will be picking it up on 360. This may be my game that I play all year round. COD4 is currently filling that void.
Just wondering has anyone played Rising Eagle? According to the Upcoming games section it has a demo. I don’t wont to play it as it just seems like it will be ass but at the same time never judge a book by its cover, or in this instance, title.
I learned about Scott during Infiltration-Development. I loved that Mod, I loved the Comics and I follow him around since then. I do not have the time anymore to listen to all of his productions but this Show is a must for me! Infiltration made UT the best game for years. Then there was Red Orchestra and nothing more for me in the Multiplayer-Genre.
thanks for Infiltration anyway!
Yeah I’m still playing TF2 – I can’t wait for my new router to arrive which can have a proper connection and have an open NAT settings to host matches. But, alas, until then I’m fugded.
On the behest of an earlier podcast, I’ve decided to order a copy of GRAW from play.com. I disliked the controls incredibly from the demo I played, but I’m gonna give it more than five minutes this time. If it’s not as good as you say it is… *shakes fist* =p
just wanted to say i like the podcast. Ive benn listeng since the 2nd or 3rd i think. Your Podcast Blows (were my initial thoughts), but i gave it a chance, (only because i had nothing else to listen to), but i really enjoy the show, i listen to every episode. And thanks for doing the show.
Also it the podcast yall brought up supreme commander, i read in a preview it has a 20 minute tutorial for the 360, and that doesn’t include the first gimme level.
We need a TD thumbtail-like picture to put on websites. I’ve got a stupid little one I mocked up from the picture at the top of the site, but it would be awesome if we had a better one.
Thats a neat interview. Though, I am kinda scared about the AI, if they mess it up, whatnot. Because they did assassins creed, and when you think about it, thats some fairly bad AI… But they might be able to pull it off here, being a different style.
Snowking: Wohoo! Each member for the Penguin Army means another step closer to Antarctic domination! We start at the South Pole and work our way up. Like a bad rash.
In other news, a brand new XBox is being shipped back to me as I write this. More wohooing to be had.
You guys should just play TF2, and communicat with your teammates. You guys are probably better than i am. Nothing makes me more ticked is when someone trys to save the day and grab the briefcase, Dies and no-one knows where the case is at.
I have a suggstion for an upcoming tactical game. Left 4 Dead. On the outside it doesn’t look tactical.
IT is a an online game where 4 humans try to beat each 30 minute or so level. THere is only a limited amount of ammo, your of course fighting zombies (or a sort). The Key is the players have to work together to survive.
It also was picked by Valve and is running on the Source engine…..Some are calling it the answet to Counter Strike. There is a very good article in the newest OXM, but ill find the best link i can. http://www.gamespot.com/xbox360/action/left4dead/news.html?sid=6173776&mode=previews
Can’t find a good story just Videos if you wanna go to any of gametrailers or gamecideos
I play battlefield 2 and while it isnt the most tactical game out there, it has a lot of things going for it, including tons of mods. Mabey you guys should do an article on it, especially the project reality mod which i think you guys will like.
Martin and I were talking about setting up our Tuesday night games through Tango Down, and while we do alot of GRAW and CoD4 (and we’re probably already full for players in any CoD4 match we do because of the clan), I’m thinking we should also do stuff you guys are suggesting and rotate in some TF2, and some PC games, like SWAT4, Rogue Spear, BF2 – with the mod you mentioned, Havoc, etc. Would any if you guys be up for that? If so, I’ll see about setting up some sort of calendar plugin for the site so we can schedule it all out and mention it on the show, etc.
I think COD4 had turned me into the equivalent of a World Of Warcraft player. I have to make sure my custom weapon load outs are just right for eah map. Ok this map is mostly open spaces and long range combat so need the M16 because burst fire is more accurate. So I don’t need an accuracy perk for the M16. But I should use it with my SAW load. Support guns have more bullet spray. And I may need the extra firepower to make sure that street is clear so need the grenade launcher. And I beter equip extra smoke grenades so I have cover when I cross that street…..I think you get the picture.
tango down is a great podcast program. i’m glad i discovered your website.
i have a question about your discussions about tactical gaming… why don’t you guys mention about s.t.a.l.k.e.r.? i think its a great tactical shooter. its a special tactical shooter coz its combined with rpg elements. its AI is also very advanced, everytime you go back to a place, the enemies and AIs differ everytime. the balistics of this game is also superb, sniping feels so realistic and rewarding.
the good thing about stalker also are the mods of this game, so many excellent mods that you can literally mod anything, from weather to ballistics.
sorry about my english, its not my native language. great website & great podcast! more power!
One of my favorite things about COD4 is the “RPG” aspect. I really love playing with all the options to see what works for me. Most times I go with the M14, the P90, or the M60.
I popped in the first Ghost Recon today and was playing firefight on the docks. There’s this little building kind of in the middle of the two docks. When I went in it turned into more of a Rainbow six Close quarters battle. I wish more games would mix in more of that. I like moving from outdoor to indoor fighting. COD4 and Frontlines does this some what. It’d just be nice if it was expanded on more.
This is why Ghost Recon is probably one of the better titles I’ve ever played. 🙂
I do wish that it felt a bit more natural indoors, though. Having the R6:Vegas cover mechanic combined with the transitional environments of GR would be almost my perfect game.
Does anyone know if the new COD4 maps are any good? is there somewhere I can get a good, (non IGN, gamespot), review ? I really enjoy the show, keep it up!!!!
Ditto to what Captain Quark said! Only just discovered Tango Down and spent the last week listening to all the episodes. What a great podcast and I wish there could be more episodes guys!
We actually recorded an episode when Arma2 came out, but Martin hasn’t had time to edit it up. Seeing as how he’s currently in warzone, I’m not expecting it soon. I definitely want to get OFP2 and give it a look.
Tango Down - The Tactical Gaming Podcast 
I can’t speak highly enough about Call of Duty 4’s lobby system (minus the bugs). It’s really perfect for clan matchups. Our clan played the 360 version for about 3 hours last night on public servers, and it was some of the best online gaming I’ve ever experienced. I still suck though…
I owe whoever thought of the “Ragtime Mode” in CoD4 a beer.
I played some of the Insurgency mod for the Source engine last night. It has potential, but I can’t get past the poor animation and the fact that I couldn’t tell who I was supposed to be shooting. Could be a winner at some point, though.
You know what more FPS’s need nowadays?
FEAR
Yes, fear. How many of you have played paintball or airsoft? One thing that really stays with you after the game is over is that haunting memory brought on by the sheer adrenaline rush of being shot at. “Bullets” slamming into the wall/tree/bunker near your head. The cries for help by your teammates as they get mowed down only yards away. The feel of dread as you realize you really don’t have any idea where those bullets were coming from, almost like you can feel your enemy’s eyes focused on you. FEAR!
I’m looking for a FPS that can scare the heck out of you. Realism is the way to do it. Immersion should be the main goal. FEAR should be the final result.
I’ll agree that immersion is really the key for me in Tactical shooters – and I think that’s probably true for most fans. We play these games as simulations more than anything else, so graphics, sound, ambiance, and real emotional response are alot more important than something that’s approached more as just a “game” – so fear can definitely be a big component for me. I also like a real feeling of chaos. If a game can serve up some believable chaos, the player can get a whole range of real-life emotional reactions. Then, if the player can use his brains and skills to bring order to that chaos, that’s huge. Overcoming fear, panic, being overwhelmed… all that stuff is what makes a great tactical gaming experience, in my opinion.
I’m not a fan of the m60 iron sights in CoD4.
They’re realistic, so suck it up…
Which brings up a very interesting question: When a game developer is forced to choose between reaslism that could potentially hurt gameplay, which one should he choose? Where does the balance between realism and gameplay stand? Where do you draw the line?
This is a HUGE question for game developers out there, and probably depends largely on the particular project, but it’s interesting to think about nonetheless.
Yeah, they’re realistic – which I want – but they were frustrating nonetheless. I prefer an aimpoint in game (although I have trouble with the whole “both eyes open” concept in real life for some reason)
As far as the realism / gameplay thing, I always thought that it’s a game first. It’s got to be compelling as a game before it can succeed with an audience, so I personally don’t think you can sacrifice the fun factor purely for extreme realism. That said, I’ll take my fun as realistic as possible…
Good point. I think the real challenge is simulating reality in a way that makes it effortless… or at least as effortless as it is in real life. Obviously in real life it doesn’t take a whole lot of effort to point a gun, so it shouldn’t take a lot of effort in-game either. If you have to bend the rules a little bit to simulate this effortlessness, then you should do so. On the other hand, it actually takes some skill and effort to hit a target from two hundred yards with an assault rifle, likewise it should require an equivalent amount of effort in-game.
I installed X-Com last night. I might play a little this week, if it will actually run in Vista. What’s really interesting is this: http://sourceforge.net/project/showfiles.php?group_id=23295. It’s a multiplayer engine that runs all the old X-Com maps in 640×480. I ran it for a minute or two last night, but couldn’t figure out how to start a match.
I honestly don’t know if there has ever been a better game than the original X-Com.
Have a merry Christmas guys! Cya on the other side!
Hey there Martin and Chris,
first of all, happy new year!
TGP Episode 3 was a little disapointing in my oppion – but it was funny! 🙂
There is nothing more to “the perfect tactical shooter” than a streamlined interface and some immersion?
What about ballistics/penetration, weapon handling, pace´n ´stuff?
What I really wanted to say is, that I pretty much enjoy your show.
Now get to work for the next episode or at least do some new texures for INF 3.0! 😉
Cow
TGP listener 4/3
Where’s our bouncer when we need him? 😉
You know, as much as I enjoyed doing that episode, I definitely think we would have benefitted from having an outline for it, so we could have covered more aspects. We have been getting better at the preparation phase though…
That’s probably a topic we’ll revisit down the road. Maybe we’ll quickly summarize our stuff from episode 3 and then get more detailed and organized about it and do it every so often.
As for INF 3… I think the INF ship sailed a loooong time ago. That being said, we both talk about wanting to have a limited role in some future mod or small scale game development, time permitting.
This notepad seems just right. Considering a fullblown forum would be more overkill then –generic tactical gaming reference to overkill here–.
Hey guys, Love the podcast! Downloaded last night and listened to all of them. I liked all of them, and hope you make more for 08 and beyond.
Love the website and the concept asit is right up my street. Love Rainbow Six Vegas, GRAW and GRAW2. If you guys want to get some co-op on GRAW or GRAW2 I just want you to know I will play, XBL Gamertag – The Anderlation. Send me a Friend Request if you like.
Anyway hopefully, you implement a forum system when you feel it ius right to start one. Keep the website updated and the podcasts coming. You guys are on my favourites in IE.
Thanks for the positive comments!
While I’d really love to get back into some GRAW2 (Co-op was a bucket of fun), I’m still stuck with my RROD waiting on Microsoft. Sad face. 😦
Aww man that sucks! Oh well. I still need to complete R6:V, so I will be getrtiong back to that hopefully soon.
You know what I want? I want SWAT 5 on the CoD4 engine. Someone go make that mod. Go! Now!
Have you watched the new Developer Diary for Vegas 2? I think they got the right idea going on. And considering how many hours I got out of the original, I think this will top that.
Haven’t seen it yet, but I’ll definitely check it out.
Just checked it out, and left my comment in the article. Overall definetly must have in my book. It may seem like just a new upgrade to soem people or Vegas 1.5, but to me I used to gobble up the Rainbow Expansions as they were worthy of the price, for the amount of levels, features and content. This seems to follow them trends.
Vegas 2 is not to be missed for a tactical gamer!
I don’t know if its tactical or not, but Advance Wars: Days of Ruin just released some new info. I loved the first two (I only got to play the DS version on my friends DS, cuz I don’t have one) and I think there about the most tactical thing on Nintendo. But anyway, new info was released.
http://www.gamespot.com/ds/strategy/advancewarsdaysofruin/index.html
Just though I would point it out.
I expect that Chris will be on that one like a fly on… flypaper. He’s been lauding the DS since the day he got it.
I, meanwhile, am still stuck without a console to play on. Cry for me!
Well couple of things this week:
I finally finished COD4 single player and have hoped onto Multiplayer. Have to say it is awesome! I love it and it has me hooked! I am not really a team deathmatch or adversial player but this is keeping me occupied. So been playing that at the weekend.
And secondly I picked up my copy of SWAT4 with the expansion pack. Just installed it.
Sad news is that whilst in work, I took a chunk out of my index finger, (nothing serious! – just a fair bit of skin.) So I physically can’t hold the 360 pad or press w,a,s,d in the way you would with SWAT. So just continuing to play C&C: Generals.
Happy gaming everyone for this week! And Martin, call the damn MS support line!
Anderlation – I LOVED C&C Generals! I completely forgot about that one. A coworker and I would play that during slow times, back when that came out.
Sorry to hear about your finger, but glad to hear you picked up SWAT. One thing to keep in mind with the SWAT games is that you’re going to need to tell your teammates what to do at all times. It’s similar to teammate AI in R6V, but they need a touch more instruction.
Blackguard Spork – I have heard nothing but great things about that series. I can’t wait to get a copy. Sadly, I think my gaming budget is tapped for a bit. There have just been too many good games these past few months… Can you give us a synopsis on it?
Yeah, I played the SWAT4 demo, just to test if I could play at very high and such and was really impressed with the game.
Can’t wait to tuck into some SWAT4 action, and hopefully find an online coop lobby. Heard it is meant to be really good online, if played the right way of course.
Also just want to add, good job with adding to thew tactical gamer guide, with The Sum of All Fears. Hope that you guys update over the coming months.
– Just a side note, Mercenaries 2 just doesn’t look that appealing to me, it looks like a very forgetable experience waiting to happen. Which is sad, as number 1 was an above average game. I am just not pumped for it what so ever.
We should schedule a co-op SWAT 4 game. I’m sure Martin would be up for that one too, since it will run on his PC and he’s currently missing an Xbox…
And thanks about the Guide. It’s something I want to keep updated on a weekly basis. I think I’m going to have to organize it a bit better soon though…
Yeah I wouldn’t mind that at all. Also Chris, you need to pester Martin to get phoning MS up to get a replacement. After all some big games are coming out within the next 3 months. I heard it takes you guys in the states 4-6 weeks to get it sent off and returned. I had to do it once and got mine sent and returned within a week. Live in the UK btw 😉
Synopsis of AW: Basically you have a list of Units (Like basic infantry, anti-vehicle, APC, Light and Heavy Tanks, light and Heavy Artillery, Bomber, Fighters, Transport Helicopters, Attack Helos, Subs, Destroyers, Battle Ships, Transport ships and some other stuff.) And a CO that have different CO powers that you get for winning battles, capturing cities and what not. Some of the CO powers include all units healing, doubling artillery range, increasing movement and capturing speeds, among others. You go and capture cities, barracks, airports, shipyards and vehicle depots to get money and units.
Like most strategy games, its one big game of Rock, Paper, Scissors. You get this battle force and have to either Capture 75% of all buildings, or take the enemy HQ or just killing so many troops (depending on the objective).
You can have up to four forces duking it out for control. Sorry, but my words can’t give it justice. You have to try it. Its a rather simple concept, but you can have some good strategies and tough battles.
I made a pencil an paper version of the game that used only graph paper, colored pencils and a six sided die. It became the official pastime of my 8th grade class. But anyhow, its defiantly worth a try. There awesome games. Hours of enjoyment are there.
My XBox is enroute to Microsoft as we speak… Or, it’s there and they’re poking at it with sticks. Either way, nothing I can do but wait. 😦
On the plus side, my brother and I are starting to delve into tabletop miniature games. Expect a report where I totally nerd out.
And, I would be up for some SWAT 4 Action. Would need to reinstall it, though, assuming I can find the discs.
Ooh, what table top game? Like Warhammer or something? I used to play 40K, I mean, I still do, but its once every six months, or it feels like it.
The one we settled on is called AT-43. This system has pre-painted stuff and an overall aesthetic that I really enjoy (none of the hyper-gothic overtones of Warhammer that kind of annoyed me). From, the introduction games we’ve managed to play through (we don’t have a terrible amount of time between the two of us), it’s pretty fun and has some definite room for tactics and the like.
My brother used to play a lot of Warhammer 40K back when we were in high-school, but I could never get into it because of the cost and the time expenditure for painting the miniatures. It was a fun to play with his stuff, but I could never be convinced to field my own army. AT-43 isn’t terribly much cheaper than Warhammer (I found a decent deal on eBay to get a hold of the starter box and a few extra stuff), but at least I don’t have to paint crap which is huge for me. Also, compared to my dim memories of the Warhammer system, AT-43 has a pretty decent system where instead of moving your army in a turn, each player alternates which squad they move so it’s a lot more “real time” than other systems.
Expect some reports as he and I get more into it. I’ve always loved the tactile feel of playing with miniatures on a table instead of a computer game, and hopefully this is a system I don’t mind getting into.
Now excuse me while I find my pocket protector and suspenders.
Sounds like fun. But I probably won’t get into it. Right now I’m making a tactical conversion rule set for d20 Modern (Yes, its even geeky-er). Also, anyone else looking foreword to “Left 4 Dead”? I’m not sure if it will be tactical, but it is squad based, co-op survival horror… who knows?
Yeah – plus it’s from Valve now, and they have a pretty good track record when it comes to picking up talent.
Yeah, Valve does make some awesome games. I just with they would port more over to the 360, because my comp isn’t up to par right now… On a total tangent, I think that the Half Life series could make a good RTS. But that’s just me.
I am looking forward to Left 4 Dead. I think I will be picking it up on 360. This may be my game that I play all year round. COD4 is currently filling that void.
360 here too. As for my Void, its filled by Vegas, TF2 (If you see me online, send an invite, I WILL play) and Oblivion.
Just wondering has anyone played Rising Eagle? According to the Upcoming games section it has a demo. I don’t wont to play it as it just seems like it will be ass but at the same time never judge a book by its cover, or in this instance, title.
I learned about Scott during Infiltration-Development. I loved that Mod, I loved the Comics and I follow him around since then. I do not have the time anymore to listen to all of his productions but this Show is a must for me! Infiltration made UT the best game for years. Then there was Red Orchestra and nothing more for me in the Multiplayer-Genre.
thanks for Infiltration anyway!
You guys read this:http://www.escapistmagazine.com/articles/view/issues/issue_134/2874-The-Virtua-Corps
Quite a good report on Tactical Gaming as well as some info on the developers.
That’s a GREAT article Garfunkle – thanks!!! I’ll post it on the blog at some point soon.
You still playing TF2? It’s been way too long for me…
Trabbi – great to have you aboard! I’m sure we’ll rant further on INF at some point in the future 🙂
Anderlation – I still haven’t tried Rising Eagle, and I’m also curious to see if any of us here have. Definitely post up your thoughts if you do!
Yeah I’m still playing TF2 – I can’t wait for my new router to arrive which can have a proper connection and have an open NAT settings to host matches. But, alas, until then I’m fugded.
On the behest of an earlier podcast, I’ve decided to order a copy of GRAW from play.com. I disliked the controls incredibly from the demo I played, but I’m gonna give it more than five minutes this time. If it’s not as good as you say it is… *shakes fist* =p
Bah! Forgot to mention I put a review of the podcast up on iTunes. I quite doing it and I’m starting to do so for pretty much a lot of things now.
Well done Tango Down – you broke my iTunes virginity.
Hopefully the new router will allow you to connect to *certain* matches.
One can hope. Well, I’ve played with you Sporky so I know what I’m up against 🙂
Wait, do you mean that in a good way or a bad way?
just wanted to say i like the podcast. Ive benn listeng since the 2nd or 3rd i think. Your Podcast Blows (were my initial thoughts), but i gave it a chance, (only because i had nothing else to listen to), but i really enjoy the show, i listen to every episode. And thanks for doing the show.
Heres to 2000 viewers and naked ladies.
Also it the podcast yall brought up supreme commander, i read in a preview it has a 20 minute tutorial for the 360, and that doesn’t include the first gimme level.
SupCom is the best RTS game out there. I’d say it even beats TA… well, they were developed by the same guy.
I can’t wait for it coming out on the 360!
I always though if picking it up. I might have to play it on the 360. Once I get more ram though, I’ll start playing World in Conflict some more.
We need a TD thumbtail-like picture to put on websites. I’ve got a stupid little one I mocked up from the picture at the top of the site, but it would be awesome if we had a better one.
(http://myextralife.com/forum2/memberlist.php?mode=viewprofile&u=539)
(At the bottom)
Two things:
1. I Would Like to Sign Up To the Penguin Army.
2. I would also like to vote for the Inclusion of a forum 😀
Well, I’m taking design at school. Maybe I should try and whip one up…
Well theres an idea for ya! Most people like looking at pictures instead of reading text. Well, wikipedia would classify that as {citation needed}
Here’s a link to a cool little interview that x360a did with Tim Cummins who is working on the Rainbow Six Vegas 2 game:
http://www.xbox360achievements.org/news/news.php?id=688
Thats a neat interview. Though, I am kinda scared about the AI, if they mess it up, whatnot. Because they did assassins creed, and when you think about it, thats some fairly bad AI… But they might be able to pull it off here, being a different style.
Snowking: Wohoo! Each member for the Penguin Army means another step closer to Antarctic domination! We start at the South Pole and work our way up. Like a bad rash.
In other news, a brand new XBox is being shipped back to me as I write this. More wohooing to be had.
Come back to the light, Martin. Come back to the joys of console Orange Box, CoD4 and others.
Yes, we must play TF2. All the TGP listeners. And Doom on the Live arcade.
My XBox should be back in my hands on the 11th.
So, who’s up for a GRAW2 Coop session on the new maps?
OOO! OOO! ME! ME!!!
Those new missions are hard as hell with one player in co-op.
You guys should just play TF2, and communicat with your teammates. You guys are probably better than i am. Nothing makes me more ticked is when someone trys to save the day and grab the briefcase, Dies and no-one knows where the case is at.
I have a suggstion for an upcoming tactical game. Left 4 Dead. On the outside it doesn’t look tactical.
IT is a an online game where 4 humans try to beat each 30 minute or so level. THere is only a limited amount of ammo, your of course fighting zombies (or a sort). The Key is the players have to work together to survive.
It also was picked by Valve and is running on the Source engine…..Some are calling it the answet to Counter Strike. There is a very good article in the newest OXM, but ill find the best link i can. http://www.gamespot.com/xbox360/action/left4dead/news.html?sid=6173776&mode=previews
Can’t find a good story just Videos if you wanna go to any of gametrailers or gamecideos
So, what days/times work for TF2. And when can Garfunkle connect with anyone? Cuz he can’t connect to me…
I play battlefield 2 and while it isnt the most tactical game out there, it has a lot of things going for it, including tons of mods. Mabey you guys should do an article on it, especially the project reality mod which i think you guys will like.
Martin and I were talking about setting up our Tuesday night games through Tango Down, and while we do alot of GRAW and CoD4 (and we’re probably already full for players in any CoD4 match we do because of the clan), I’m thinking we should also do stuff you guys are suggesting and rotate in some TF2, and some PC games, like SWAT4, Rogue Spear, BF2 – with the mod you mentioned, Havoc, etc. Would any if you guys be up for that? If so, I’ll see about setting up some sort of calendar plugin for the site so we can schedule it all out and mention it on the show, etc.
Well I’m deffinatly up for it. Maybe get a Rainbow Six Vegas match going too. I’m gonna buy it for my console soon (tomorrow?)
Yeah, Should do TF2 and Vegas. I do have rouge spear as well, so if you play that, I might like to try again.
Also, its getting kinda annoying to keep scrolling down to the bottom of this page…
I take it that’s a *hinthint* that a forum is requested? 😛
It just might be… Or you could archive some earlier posts.
I’m kinda curious, how much traffic I’ve sent. I see peeps linking to this place from my blog. That got me curious.
I’ve got a picture link to the site in my signature for several forums. How many, I do wonder.
Place your bets! Place your bets! I’ve got 9 from the gentleman in the nightvision-goggles!
9 forums? How do you keep on top of them all?
Speaking of forums… http://tacticalgamingpodcast.phpbb.net/
And a huge thanks for the pimping, by the way. We don’t say it enough. 🙂
Yay! I was the first to register (besides the grand old admin, of course)
Tehehe. No you weren’t Sporky! ‘stilyn’ was the first, then Chris then yourself! 🙂
NOOOOOOOOOOO! Who is this “stilyn” anyway….?
I think COD4 had turned me into the equivalent of a World Of Warcraft player. I have to make sure my custom weapon load outs are just right for eah map. Ok this map is mostly open spaces and long range combat so need the M16 because burst fire is more accurate. So I don’t need an accuracy perk for the M16. But I should use it with my SAW load. Support guns have more bullet spray. And I may need the extra firepower to make sure that street is clear so need the grenade launcher. And I beter equip extra smoke grenades so I have cover when I cross that street…..I think you get the picture.
I have it much easier.
Long distance map? M60.
Intermediate urban map? M60.
CQB Map? M60.
I love that gun.
ood day!
tango down is a great podcast program. i’m glad i discovered your website.
i have a question about your discussions about tactical gaming… why don’t you guys mention about s.t.a.l.k.e.r.? i think its a great tactical shooter. its a special tactical shooter coz its combined with rpg elements. its AI is also very advanced, everytime you go back to a place, the enemies and AIs differ everytime. the balistics of this game is also superb, sniping feels so realistic and rewarding.
the good thing about stalker also are the mods of this game, so many excellent mods that you can literally mod anything, from weather to ballistics.
sorry about my english, its not my native language. great website & great podcast! more power!
-zer0
Thats like me on r6:Vegas. I have never needed any other gun than the H&K G3KA4. It works ever so well.
good rts with minimal resource management = World in Confict 😉
One of my favorite things about COD4 is the “RPG” aspect. I really love playing with all the options to see what works for me. Most times I go with the M14, the P90, or the M60.
To the forums! Ye shall all discuss that stuff there! 🙂
I popped in the first Ghost Recon today and was playing firefight on the docks. There’s this little building kind of in the middle of the two docks. When I went in it turned into more of a Rainbow six Close quarters battle. I wish more games would mix in more of that. I like moving from outdoor to indoor fighting. COD4 and Frontlines does this some what. It’d just be nice if it was expanded on more.
This is why Ghost Recon is probably one of the better titles I’ve ever played. 🙂
I do wish that it felt a bit more natural indoors, though. Having the R6:Vegas cover mechanic combined with the transitional environments of GR would be almost my perfect game.
Does anyone know if the new COD4 maps are any good? is there somewhere I can get a good, (non IGN, gamespot), review ? I really enjoy the show, keep it up!!!!
I’m sure I’ll have one for you 😛
Hey guys go t my site at http://callofdutyblog.wordpress.com/.
Hey guys? No more Tango Down? 😦
hey chris and mike…just listened to my first episode and really liked it. looking forwords to the next one.
Anyone? Anyone?
Seriously, Tango Down is an excellent podcast. Any more going to come down the pipe?
Anyone still using the notepad?
Ditto to what Captain Quark said! Only just discovered Tango Down and spent the last week listening to all the episodes. What a great podcast and I wish there could be more episodes guys!
Dare I get my hopes up? Alas, I shall post every week until Chris or Martin give us another update!
Also, the new Operation Flashpoint was released yesterday. Might be a good topic to get things rolling again hint hint.
We actually recorded an episode when Arma2 came out, but Martin hasn’t had time to edit it up. Seeing as how he’s currently in warzone, I’m not expecting it soon. I definitely want to get OFP2 and give it a look.
Like an actual warzone? … sweet.
+5 respect level