jvgfanatic -> RE: Hearts of iron (11/22/2006 6:59:04 PM)
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ORIGINAL: dinsdale quote:
ORIGINAL: jvgfanatic Matrix's interfaces are pretty weak, while graphically nice they don't provide that extra layer of user interactivity that some of Paradox's games do. Paradox obviously employs someone who is schooled in cognitive sciences to help with the interfaces while Matrix buys into the "if it looks good, it must work good" mentality. I like paradox games, but this statement had me laughing. Try: 1) Assning a general you wish to promote to a division 2) Selecting multiple air units in a province occupied by ground units 3) Effectively organizing your armies during real time 4) Adding an attachment to a unit overseas If you think that's the result of "expertise" then I'd love to see you using a real interface. Matrix games are no better in general (WiTP winning the prize) but check out HTTR and COTA and compare the number of mouseclicks you need to accomplish repetative, basic tasks to HOI. As I said, there are exceptions to every general statement, particularly with a company like Matrix which works with many different houses. HTTR and COTA are actually excellent examples of some pretty fine interface design (though I've only played HTTR and haven't looked at it in a while since my boxed copy was lost in a move and I have no backup). Whenever I speak of at least HTTR I always bring up its truly exceptional points. Oh, and please allow me to apologize for that "if it looks good it must work good" line. It was actually meant specifically for interface and does not represent the underlying awesomeness of a great game that might be present undereath that merely functional interface. WITP is, of course, an inteface disaster (great game though :P) As to your specific issues with HOI. Granted, it isn't perfect. In any game so large there are bound to be holes. I have to think, however, that Paradox (or the developers of HOI) at least gave it an "A" shot whereas another developer might have just slapped on a fancy 2D picture and called it good. Most strategy game interfaces are no more elaborate than an interactive Powerpoint presentation and it seems as if the designers spent more time aligning buttons than concentrating on usability (not that pixel pushing should be underrated or anything).
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