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Story

688 Attack Sub invites players into the tense underwater world of Cold War-era submarine warfare. Developed by John Ratcliff and Paul Grace, and released in 1989 by Electronic Arts, the game captures the strategic depth and suspense of commanding a nuclear submarine. While the game lacks a detailed narrative found in modern titles, its strength lies in its historical context and the realistic scenarios it presents.

The game is set during a period of high tension between the United States and the Soviet Union. Players can choose to command either a Soviet or American submarine, each with unique missions reflecting the strategic interests of their respective nations. These missions range from reconnaissance and rescue operations to direct confrontations with enemy vessels. The scenarios are designed to immerse players in the geopolitical chessboard of the late 20th century, emphasizing stealth, strategy, and the stakes of global warfare beneath the waves.

Gameplay

688 Attack Sub’s gameplay is a meticulous simulation of submarine operations, offering a blend of strategy and real-time action. The game is renowned for its complexity, demanding players to manage a variety of systems to successfully complete missions.

Control Systems

The game interface replicates the control rooms of real submarines, challenging players to navigate through various stations:

• Sonar System: This is crucial for detecting enemy vessels and avoiding detection. Players must interpret sonar readouts to identify objects, determine the location of threats, and decide on the best course of action.
• Periscope: Essential for visual identification of targets. The periscope mode is used sparingly to minimize the risk of being spotted by enemy forces.
• Navigation: Players must plot courses, considering depth, speed, and environmental factors to ensure stealthy passage through hostile waters.
• Weapons Control: This station is responsible for arming and firing torpedoes and other weaponry, requiring precise timing and targeting to engage enemy vessels successfully.

Mission Variety

The game features a diverse array of missions, each requiring different strategic approaches. Missions can involve silent reconnaissance to gather intelligence, escorting allied vessels, or engaging in direct combat with enemy forces. The dynamic nature of these missions encourages players to be adaptable and think critically, using the submarine’s capabilities to their fullest extent.

Difficulty and Realism

688 Attack Sub is known for its steep learning curve and commitment to realism. It demands players to have patience, strategic foresight, and an understanding of submarine warfare mechanics. The game does not hold the player’s hand, instead opting for a trial-and-error approach that is both challenging and rewarding for those willing to master its intricacies.

Graphics and Sound

For a game released in the late 1980s, 688 Attack Sub’s graphics are a testament to the era’s technological constraints yet showcase a commendable attention to detail. The game’s visuals, though primitive by today’s standards, effectively convey the claustrophobic and high-pressure environment of a submarine’s interior.

Visual Presentation

The game employs a first-person perspective from various control stations within the submarine. The graphics are predominantly 2D, with simple, yet functional interfaces that mimic the actual controls found in submarines. While the external views of the ocean and enemy vessels are minimalistic, they serve their purpose in enhancing the gameplay’s tactical aspects.

Audio Design

The sound design in 688 Attack Sub plays a crucial role in building tension and immersion. The game features authentic sonar pings, engine noises, and weapon discharge sounds that add to the realism. The absence of a musical score further immerses players into the silent world of underwater warfare, where every sound could signify danger or opportunity.

Legacy and Reception

Upon its release, 688 Attack Sub was well-received by critics and players alike for its realistic portrayal of submarine warfare. It was praised for its challenging gameplay, detailed simulation mechanics, and educational value regarding Cold War naval strategies.

Critical Acclaim

The game was noted for its ability to immerse players in the strategic complexities of underwater combat. Publications lauded its attention to detail and the demand for tactical thinking, making it a standout title among naval simulation games of its time.

Influence on Future Titles

688 Attack Sub set a benchmark for future submarine simulation games, inspiring the development of successors that expanded upon its foundations. Its influence is evident in later titles like Silent Hunter and Sub Command, which continued to evolve the genre with improved graphics, more complex systems, and deeper narratives.

Enduring Appeal

Decades after its release, 688 Attack Sub remains a beloved classic among enthusiasts of simulation and strategy games. Its dedication to realism and strategic depth has earned it a lasting place in the history of video gaming, often cited as a pioneer in the genre of military simulations.

Conclusion

688 Attack Sub is a defining title in the realm of submarine simulations, offering an authentic and challenging experience that captures the essence of Cold War naval conflict. Its intricate gameplay, realistic systems, and historical context provide both an engaging and educational journey into the depths of underwater warfare. Though its graphics and sound may seem outdated today, the game’s impact on the genre and its influence on subsequent titles remain significant. For those with a passion for military strategy and history, 688 Attack Sub offers a dive into the past, where every decision could be the difference between survival and defeat beneath the ocean’s surface.