Sun Sep 13, 2015 11:41 pm
Welcome to the Forums.
To my knowledge there really are not any demos, but there are excellent AARs which will provide a pretty detailed look into the game design and features. There are also some excellent videos on how to play the game which also provide a good examination of the game system.
I would recommend selecting your first title based upon the particular conflict which most interests you historically. Because these games are detailed studies of each conflict, familiarity with a conflict will help provide a framework for your initial play. Each title is very replayable. In part this is due to a variety of scenarios as in the Wars in America and Alea Jacta Est. Games which cover a broad expanse of history or the complexity of possible strategies and tactics found in all the titles.
Part of my recommendation would be based upon how your learn games and play them. If you like to just fire up and game and play without too much study Wars in America and Alea Jacta Est are the most approachable titles as they do not have the complication of command structure and detailed supply. Production is more by game event and the ratio of forces is small.
Civil War 2 and To End All Wars are deeply rich and complex. You will need to invest time in learning these games. This forum has lots of advice and examples, but you will not pick up these games and be playing as a veteran in a week.
One benefit of coming to the forum is that just when you think you have exhausted a game's possibilities, you can join in pbem play. The challenge other players present will make you think you have a brand new game as you learn the games at even a deeper level.
One thing I love about Alea Jacta Est is that historical events only fire when you have made some particular action. While some players are frustrated they cannot simply flip through a manual and find all the possibilities of lines of action, it is a true delight to try a different and be rewarded with a nice bonus or surprised because you now have a new enemy. This is a game which will reward study of the actual history to understand better play.
Let your historical interest guide you AEGOD games cover many conflicts not well covered. The Spanish Civil War and Russian Revolution are two such. The new Thirty Years War is a unique treatment of this not well understood time.
Have fun with whichever game you first select.