Quick history lesson: if you missed the Kuju-developed Battalion Wars for the GameCube back in 2005, it brought a refreshing mix of real-time strategy and action to the console. Now the sleeper franchise is back, bringing its brand of combat to the Wii.
Now for a history lesson that should be longer, given that it takes in hundreds of years. The story of Battalion Wars 2 revolves around Commander Pierce and Colonel Windsor having been tricked into believing that the Solar Empire is developing a super-weapon of devastating proportions. They take it upon themselves to launch a pre-emptive attack against the Empire, and so it goes that you end up with a war to fight.
Battalion Wars 2 blends together strategy and action combat. Not only do players direct their forces, they also join them in the heat of combat.
The game's graphical style is marked by cartoony characters set against a gritty and realistic backdrop. Play takes place across everything from post-apocalyptic wastelands to lush greenery.
New to the series is the ability to control naval fleets for the first time. Players will also find an online multiplayer mode that makes the most of the Wii's network functionality.
If you've ever fancied controlling armies to prevent galactic destruction but found that real life doesn't really offer you the opportunity, this could be your bag.