Those Who Die As Cattle

This game was created for Ludum Dare 56 [Game Page].

A WW1 trench warfare simulation game, with a personal touch. Take command of a Regiment in the First Battle of Ypres as either a French Colonel or a German Oberst. If you are so inclined, examine the casualty list (and click on the names).

I recommend you play in Fullscreen. Heed the briefing. Play as France if you want a German attack to be inevitable (for historical reasons), but the enemy will always exploit weakness no matter the side.

Please note, due to time constraints:

- It is a 124mb download, it may take a while for the unity web player to load.

- The audio is loud by default (as is war), please turn down your volume prior to starting the game if you would prefer a quieter experience.

- The names may not be demographically accurate to 1914 Germany / France.

- Some of the combat simulation is not based on historical data

For those who need a primer on trench warfare:

- High Explosive Shells are critical for damaging the enemy trench, while also killing and traumatizing the men inside. Damaging the enemy trench makes it more vulnerable to assaults and Shrapnel Shells.

- Shrapnel Shells are most effective at destroying an enemy attack in No Mans Land. If there is no attack going on, they will attack the enemy trench. The more damaged the trench, the more damage it will do.

- Mustard Gas is good against high troop concentrations in a trench. It is a good way to make massing for an attack more costly, or to thin the ranks of defenders.

- In general, preserving your reserves is good, because they won't take casualties (especially from mustard gas) or build up combat fatigue. If you see the enemy massing though, it's probably time to bring them up. Or when it is time to go over the top.