I don't want to take to long to write a review because it will cut into my available playing time. But this is one of the greatest games I have ever played. I'm using the unofficial plus patch as recommended by some of the reviews, and it's a great choice.
I'm glad I got this as a GOG giveaway way back when, because I'd be mad if I paid for this schlock. The premise itself has potential, but the execution is just awful. There are a plethora of bugs, but the worst of them means you can't even finish the game. That'd be fine if there was a sandbox to play in, but nope. Sandbox is just you, no AI competition. I guess it works to learn the basics, but provides no replayability. Don't waste your money on this. If you're able to get it for free from another giveaway, don't waste the space on your hard drive.
This was one of my favorite games growing up. I remember how disappointing it was they moved away from the Caeser 2 style. Playing it again, I realize how far the series has come. Compared to the later titles, it feels...unpolished. My biggest irk is the lack of a roadblock, as in Pharaoh. It stops the aimless walkers from passing that point, but allows destination walkers through. A minor thing, but not having it is a huge headache when you're used to it. And the employment walkers are not something I missed. I know Pharaoh has them, but they don't seem to be as annoying as they are here. In short, a great game if you're playing the series in chronological order. Otherwise, I'd say head for the later titles and get the polish.
I still have the cd, but GOG is much more convenient. I've played similar games that are sleeker and better looking than this, but they can't compare to the game play. Few games get you as invested as this one. I remember spending hours harassing a convey that had two tankers (what luck!) and a carrier (the gods smile upon me!) as well as a mess of escorts (whom gods destroy...). I popped up to get a visual, and spent 20 minutes avoiding depth charges. With sonar and dead reckoning, I got right behind the carrier and put two fish in her stern. I didn't wait to see the result, and sat on the bottom for 20 more minutes waiting for the destroyers to go away. I've had more successful battles, but few as fun as that was.
