Those who enjoyed the original Enigma: Rising Tide will enjoy the many new features included in this expanded and polished version.
Graphically, Enigma shines with detail. From the detail of the bridge to the numerous dials, pipes, and systems of the submarines, the developers spent many hours to try and bring realistic models to life. The physics are true to life as well, with massive cruisers swaying in the high seas and depth charges churning underwater leaving bubbles in their wake. Make sure to bring your parka if you’re out on the deck; a host of weather effects from fog, rain, and choppy seas will have an impact on you and your crew’s performance, from navigation to targeting.
Sadly, the explosions and other damage effects are underwhelming. Most of the time, you encounter lots and lots of smoke; I suppose these vessels did contain a lot of flammable material, but it seems overdone at times.
Sound wise, Enigma: Rising Tide: Gold Edition boasts some impressive auditory effects, and if you have played previous naval games, you’ll feel right at home among the plinking of the sonar and roar of the deck guns. The ambiance created from planes buzzing overhead on strafing runs combined with aforementioned guns thundering, creates a real sense of danger and mortality. One shot could take your ship out if landed just right. Perhaps the best addition to sound is voice command, as you can control your crew using many sets of commands, such as “Periscope depth!” or “Deck guns fire!” All of this is followed by your crew’s immediate audio response as they dutifully carry out their task. Very few games have tried this feature and Enigma nails it, and is one of the highpoints of the title. Rounding out the sound department, the score is typical of many WWII games; lots of orchestral, grand wind and string sections with menacing overtones when the action heats up.
