80%PC

If you've watched the 1983 film, Wargames, then you'll understand the premise of DEFCON. It's a simulation of all-out nuclear warfare, as you launch attacks against the enemy from ground silos, subs and bombers. What results is Mutually Assured Destruction (MAD), where your only goal is to do more damage to the other side than they can do to you.

The interface shows a map of the world, your forces and the enemy's, and once launches are detected, the path of the nuclear warheads as they speed towards their targets. Chillingly, once they hit, you'll see a count of the number of people killed. It's a good strategy game that really brings home what would happen if such a war played out in real life.

80%PC

Simplistic and quick matches are no major misdemeanors in this very fun, yet surprisingly chilling and depressing strategy game.

70%PC

Played through tutorial, there's a decent casual game here for strategy fans, and it's got a weird atmosphere and style which is cool. But I felt like I'd explored all the depth of gameplay in an hour which wasn't for me.

40%PC

Rated as a single player experience. I believe the game can be a lot more enjoyable for those who play it in multiplayer.

60%PC

An interesting and very different kind of game. Certainly worth trying (in the free demo - hint hint), just to have a gaming experience you haven't had before. Visuals and pacing are very base level, which sucks a little even as it evokes a very tense and thoughtful setting. I only played single player, but I hear the multiplayer is very good too.

80%PC

Cool little strategy game. Very basic, yet sets an effective, eerie mood. Good for chess players.

85%No Platform Specified

DEFCON's a great example of how a few simple concepts can be combined to make something that's incredibly interesting and pleasantly complicated. The nostalgic echoes of WarGames definitely helps give the title a familiar flavor for older gamers, but even folks who haven't seen the movie will appreciate the way this game can seem detached and utterly intense all at the same time. For twenty bucks, you can't go wrong with this one.