Sim: Smugglers 3 [by Niels Bauer]

Smugglers 3 is one of the more enjoyable surprises I've played lately.  The game is a treat for sci-fi fans.  Actually it seems that we have gotten a lot of sci-fi games lately, which in my mind is a good thing only because each one of them has been well-done, and each brings something different to the table.  In the case of Smugglers 3, you are a pilot in a interstellar conflict.  However, instead of spending your time in non-stop battle action sequences, Smugglers 3 is based more on text. 

Smugglers 3 places you in one of four factions.  Each of the factions has different objectives and weapons.  Playing through the game, one of your main goals is to trade goods with the various planets that you visit.  This will help you to build up your funds so that you can buy better weapons and a better ship.  In addition you will undertake missions that will help to increase your standing within your faction and win you medals of honor.

You do in fact have action battles in the game.  However, the battles consist of you and an enemy in a turn based conflict that shows you both ships, a proximity meter and the special weapons that you each have available.  These battles work very well to put you in control of all the important factors of the battle without making you get too tied up with minute details.

Smugglers 3 scores big points for providing such a rich storyline despite a few grammar problems that show up in the text.  The story draws you in with constant updates as to where your faction lies in regards to the conflict and encounters with other star vessels that help make you feel as though you really are engaged in the conflict.  The game also offers amazing depth and development as you continue on, hiring crew and accepting ever more perilous and complicated missions throughout multiple star systems.

The graphics in the game are done quite well and do a wonderful job of keeping you interested in the systems, weapons, and peoples in the game, though they are not the newest 3D graphics available.  Each of the characters and screens is very well-rendered, and I think most people will be pleasantly surprised at how well the game looks as the screenshots don't really show it off very well.  The sound is rather scant, but what is there is exceptionally well done.  It helps provide a good backdrop for the game without becoming over-powering or annoying.

Those who enjoy space simulations along the lines of Master of Orion or Starlines INC. should give Smugglers 3 a try.  It is a different angle on the space sim, and one that works extremely well.  I think most people who play the demo will find themselves wanting for more, and with good reason!  Smugglers 3 is a game that delivers a high-quality gaming experience that is well worth the money spent!

Added: February 2nd 2004
Poster: Russell Carroll
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