Efforts to revive the Soviet Union in 1985, partnering with a youthful leader from the Z generation, led to a chaotic outcome characterized by a drunken populace and an impoverished nation.
In the world of video games, Nostalgames has recently unveiled a new political simulator titled "Crisis in the Kremlin: The Cold War". This game, a remake of an older title of the same name, offers players an immersive experience as they navigate the complexities of the 1985 Soviet Union.
The game's user interface has seen significant improvements compared to Nostalgames' previous efforts, making it more accessible to a wider audience. The English language version, in particular, shows a marked improvement, making it easier for players to engage with the game's intricate mechanics.
Upon starting the game, players are tasked with creating their leader. Interestingly, the create-a-leader tool allows for the creation of a 35-year-old woman named Cool Greg, a character that does not appear in search results as a historical figure or the person who took the role of the paramount leader in the game.
As the leader, players can choose a goal and implement policies that range from the mundane to the radical. For instance, players can dramatically increase the national supply of cheap vodka, unilaterally abolish half the nuclear arsenal, or support both Iraq and Iran. The player character's actions in the game lead to a constant state of uncertainty for the USA, with the character alternating between aggressive and conciliatory stances.
The game's initial actions involve focusing national research on the cyberneticisation of the planned economy and waging war on conservative and moderate factions in the Central Committee. The player character's reign is not glorious, but the knowledge of the consequences of each decision is a significant change for Nostalgames' titles.
By the end of 1986 in the game, the USA is one DEFCON rank away from worldwide nuclear war, and the Soviet coffers are bare. The player character, intentionally veering between two polar extremes of Soviet internal and foreign policy, ultimately faces deposition from power, possibly replaced by Mikhail Gorbachev.
It's important to note that the leader character in the game is not a real historical figure. Joshua Wolens, a seasoned video game journalist with a history of writing for Vice, Fanbyte, and the Financial Times, has reviewed the game, praising its depth and complexity.
Interestingly, the game does not contain any advertisements for Pizza Hut or any other specific brands, ensuring an uninterrupted gaming experience.
In conclusion, "Crisis in the Kremlin: The Cold War" offers a unique and challenging experience for players interested in political simulations. With its improved user interface, engaging gameplay, and thought-provoking narrative, it's a game worth considering for any strategy enthusiast.
