Well over 300 historic commanders across both sides make appearances in the game such as Union Generals Sherman and Grant. Commanders are vital to success since they provide leadership to your troops, without which they would disband. As commanders gain experience, they become open to advancement. Promotions make is possible to raise a young Sherman and Grant from within their respective armies to take a spot at the top. Promotions aren't always a good thing, however. Just as in reality, a corps commander may prove to be an incapable general (such as Burnside, Hooker, etc. - ed) Determining which commanders are suited for promotion and who to hold back is a vital component of the game.

Differences between the Confederacy and Union are largely nuanced, although a few are worth noting. At the start of the war, the Confederacy possesses greater cohesion over their Yankee rivals. Troops are better trained, particularly cavalry, and work together under their commanders with great fluidity. A smaller population, however, handicaps the South unlike the Union which is well-manned. One of the greatest strengths the Union claims is naval command with ironclad ships that steam along rivers and down the Atlantic seaboard. While these differences obviously made an enormous impact on the real outcome of the war, care has been taken to ensure that both nations have a fair shot at emerging victorious.

Despite the incredible depth of its strategic gameplay, American Civil War could derail due to a few glaring issues. First and foremost, this is an extremely involved game that requires careful consideration of every move. This is far from a casual title, relegating itself to the farthest reaches of hardcore gaming. Complicating matters even more is a less than stellar presentation. Lovingly recorded music written during the period creates a nice backdrop, but the graphics leave a lot to be desired. Most serious wargamers won’t care, but the casual player might be turned off by it.

The only multiplayer mode complementing the single player campaigns is e-mail play--no direct online matches to be had. Thibaut assures us that online matchmaking is currently a high priority. Hopefully it comes packed with the game in time for its ship date early next year. Otherwise the joy of reenacting this nation's bloodiest war will remain a private pleasure.