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Digital Gaming => Computer Gaming => Topic started by: Gusington on August 06, 2013, 08:45:12 AM

Title: Dragon Commander is out...today!
Post by: Gusington on August 06, 2013, 08:45:12 AM
Looks like today was a good day to call in sick...

Title: Re: Dragon Commander is out...today!
Post by: Jarhead0331 on August 06, 2013, 08:50:52 AM
Just doesn't do anything for me.
Title: Re: Dragon Commander is out...today!
Post by: Martok on August 06, 2013, 09:03:43 AM
I'm not immediately enthralled by it, but it looks like it could be good. 

Title: Re: Dragon Commander is out...today!
Post by: Gusington on August 06, 2013, 09:11:26 AM
There are parts I really like and parts that are pretty bizarre. I do remember a few people around here were excited for it and I totally forgot about it until a few minutes ago.
Title: Re: Dragon Commander is out...today!
Post by: Rayfer on August 06, 2013, 09:32:35 AM
Quote from: Jarhead0331 on August 06, 2013, 08:50:52 AM
Just doesn't do anything for me.

Ditto.
Title: Re: Dragon Commander is out...today!
Post by: Yskonyn on August 06, 2013, 09:36:48 AM
I am intrigued by it from the first trailer I saw.
The launch trailer is pretty cool and I like the humour.

The production values seem to be of good quality too. Not sure how deep the campaign is, because from the trailer it seems like the strategic map is pretty small.

I'll wait for some reviews and most likely a sale. ;) But it does look like a game I would enjoy.
But with CK 2, EU IV, Dom 4 and Rome 2... I already have much more game than I have time for....
Title: Re: Dragon Commander is out...today!
Post by: PanzersEast on August 06, 2013, 10:04:06 AM
Would be curious to know how it is.  Looks like a strange marriage, some good ideas mixed with a couple of wtf<?> I'll be passing on everything except EU IV and maybe RTW 2.


PE
Title: Re: Dragon Commander is out...today!
Post by: W8taminute on August 06, 2013, 10:25:00 AM
Looks like a good game but need more info on it.  Time to do some research.  Btw is EUIV going to be real time?  Can they make a TBS Europa Universalis for once?
Title: Re: Dragon Commander is out...today!
Post by: LongBlade on August 06, 2013, 10:25:08 AM
I dunno guys. The only thing that turns me off is the real-time aspect.

Lots of country building and policy making. It also manages to merge an FPS aspect into controlling your dragon. This is a kind of holy grail of gaming - FPS and RTS merged into one. I've seen a few other games do it, but not many.

The production value looks good, but not AAA level. That has me wondering how many corners got cut and what the bugs might be. If they just cut visuals to get solid gameplay this looks good to me.

I'm off to sniff around the dev's website for a look.
Title: Re: Dragon Commander is out...today!
Post by: Gusington on August 06, 2013, 10:27:56 AM
It's available over at Steam for 39.99 which is a bit steep. But if it turns out to be good...
Title: Re: Dragon Commander is out...today!
Post by: LongBlade on August 06, 2013, 10:35:02 AM
I've just asked for a review code.

It's got a multiplayer campaign that can be played coop. I see a lot of potential here.
Title: Re: Dragon Commander is out...today!
Post by: mikeck on August 06, 2013, 10:43:38 AM
Just looks like another variation of command and conquer
Title: Re: Dragon Commander is out...today!
Post by: Sir Slash on August 06, 2013, 10:44:13 AM
No way I'm gonna marry a un-dead skeleton princess and how is it she still has breasts? Could be a winner if you're into that type of game. Don't know a whole lot about the creators. What else have they done?
Title: Re: Dragon Commander is out...today!
Post by: Jarhead0331 on August 06, 2013, 11:04:17 AM
Dragons are gay.
Title: Re: Dragon Commander is out...today!
Post by: son_of_montfort on August 06, 2013, 11:12:42 AM
Quote from: Jarhead0331 on August 06, 2013, 11:04:17 AM
Dragons are gay.

No... no...no...

Wizards are gay. This is proven.

(https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/thumb/e/e9/Gandalf600ppx.jpg/220px-Gandalf600ppx.jpg)

(https://www.grogheads.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fthefeed.com.au%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2013%2F05%2F451958-x_studio_08dumbledore_large.jpg&hash=3761d3ca5fb05f8ea1764e9d5b9f83da0ca77415)

I got this one as part of my KS support of Divinity: Original Sin. Right now it is updating, or I would already have impressions loaded.
Title: Re: Dragon Commander is out...today!
Post by: Martok on August 06, 2013, 11:18:44 AM
Quote from: Jarhead0331 on August 06, 2013, 11:04:17 AM
Dragons are gay.
(https://www.grogheads.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi1108.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fh412%2FRotarrin%2FOther%2Fgo_to_your_room_by_metope87-d39o0qx_zps54fdc97e.jpg&hash=f562170556c27803787ec13579eb2e54d9560072) (http://s1108.photobucket.com/user/Rotarrin/media/Other/go_to_your_room_by_metope87-d39o0qx_zps54fdc97e.jpg.html)

Title: Re: Dragon Commander is out...today!
Post by: Jarhead0331 on August 06, 2013, 11:21:28 AM
Its shocking how many xxx pictures of gay dragons there are floating around on the web. 
Title: Re: Dragon Commander is out...today!
Post by: Martok on August 06, 2013, 11:25:13 AM
I'm willing to take your word for it, but I'm disturbed you know that in the first place...  :o 

Title: Re: Dragon Commander is out...today!
Post by: Jarhead0331 on August 06, 2013, 11:28:35 AM
Quote from: Martok on August 06, 2013, 11:25:13 AM
I'm willing to take your word for it, but I'm disturbed you that in the first place...  :o

Don't be. I was simply conducting research so that I would be prepared, with evidence, to defend my comment.  Th evidence is truly compelling.
Title: Re: Dragon Commander is out...today!
Post by: SgtRock on August 06, 2013, 11:50:05 AM
Quote from: Jarhead0331 on August 06, 2013, 08:50:52 AM
Just doesn't do anything for me.

Me either!
Title: Re: Dragon Commander is out...today!
Post by: Gusington on August 06, 2013, 11:51:46 AM
Jeez rough crowd. The real target of this thread was SoM. Let's see what he comes back with after his game updates.
Title: Re: Dragon Commander is out...today!
Post by: tgb on August 06, 2013, 12:47:11 PM
Quote from: SgtRock on August 06, 2013, 11:50:05 AM
Quote from: Jarhead0331 on August 06, 2013, 08:50:52 AM
Just doesn't do anything for me.

Me either!

It's a little too......whimsical, I guess, based on the videos I've seen. Plus the RTS aspect turns me off, and I've read that the auto-resolve system is unreliable.  I may pick it up when it hits $5.
Title: Re: Dragon Commander is out...today!
Post by: mikeck on August 06, 2013, 12:57:14 PM
Quote from: Jarhead0331 on August 06, 2013, 11:04:17 AM
Dragons are gay.

It is known
Title: Re: Dragon Commander is out...today!
Post by: W8taminute on August 06, 2013, 01:01:38 PM
I don't know which way dragons swing but we all missed a very important point to this thread.  Gus called in sick on a day that a new game is out there.  Now that is smart. 

How many of us have done this in our lifetimes?   8)
Title: Re: Dragon Commander is out...today!
Post by: son_of_montfort on August 06, 2013, 01:13:37 PM
Quote from: Gusington on August 06, 2013, 11:51:46 AM
Jeez rough crowd. The real target of this thread was SoM. Let's see what he comes back with after his game updates.

I got about 20 minutes in and so far I'm intrigued. Be aware, the battles are very "clicky," as in Total Annihilation style click-fest. First-tier units are fairly fragile, so you have to be consistently rebuilding and reinforcing. In many ways, largely due to the number of units, the use of capture points, and the reliance on a sole "manpower" resource that grows over time, the RTS portion feels quite a bit like Supreme Commander.

In a sense, that is a good thing. One of my biggest problems with the Total War series of games is that the battles alone take about 30 minutes each, and you can easily be taking 2 hour long turns by the end of the game (unless you let the AI auto-play the battle, which always has mixed results). I don't see this as being a problem in DC, the battles are pretty fast and you can plan to have at least 2-3 of them per turn. I have yet to use a General in combat, so I don't know how that alters the situation.

There is a nice feeling to entering the battle as a (possibly gay, according to JH's extensive "research") dragon. Actually, you are a half-dragon, the product of some decidedly heterosexual sex between your father, the king, and your mother, a dragon in woman's guise. So you jetpack around the battlefield, blasting away with fireballs and using a variety of skills to repair, bolster, or otherwise influence your troops or the battlefield. The dragon, at least initially, is paper thin and can't take a huge amount of abuse (although my limited arrival to the battle drastically turned the tide).

I have yet to get to the political side of the game, you have to conquer more provinces to begin that. This aspect was a big draw for me and I look forward to exploring it.

My one complaint is that there is absolutely no hand holding in the game. No introduction of units and buildings, no introduction to the battlefield, no introduction to research and production (aside from a few small text boxes). It isn't rocket science, but you will stumble a bit at first. Like when I spent all 20 of my initial research points on upgrading my units, only to find out that the same research pool was used by the Wizard in another room to gain more dragon powers. I also found out that you don't get 20 RP per turn, you get 2 at the beginning (depends on provinces controlled). So it will be several turns for me to upgrade my dragon.

More impressions to follow.
Title: Re: Dragon Commander is out...today!
Post by: Jarhead0331 on August 06, 2013, 01:14:19 PM
Quote from: W8taminute on August 06, 2013, 01:01:38 PM
I don't know which way dragons swing but we all missed a very important point to this thread.  Gus called in sick on a day that a new game is out there.  Now that is smart. 

How many of us have done this in our lifetimes?   8)

Gus is a civil servant. Slouching is expected and, in many instances, rewarded.
Title: Re: Dragon Commander is out...today!
Post by: son_of_montfort on August 06, 2013, 01:15:41 PM
Quote from: Jarhead0331 on August 06, 2013, 01:14:19 PM
Quote from: W8taminute on August 06, 2013, 01:01:38 PM
I don't know which way dragons swing but we all missed a very important point to this thread.  Gus called in sick on a day that a new game is out there.  Now that is smart. 

How many of us have done this in our lifetimes?   8)

Gus is a civil servant. Slouching is expected and, in many instances, rewarded.

But are civil servants gay?
Title: Re: Dragon Commander is out...today!
Post by: Jarhead0331 on August 06, 2013, 01:17:02 PM
Quote from: son_of_montfort on August 06, 2013, 01:15:41 PM

But are civil servants gay?

Some of them.  State agencies are certainly equal opportunity employers.
Title: Re: Dragon Commander is out...today!
Post by: LongBlade on August 06, 2013, 01:47:51 PM
I'm still troubled that both dragons and Aquaman are getting a bad rap.
Title: Re: Dragon Commander is out...today!
Post by: tgb on August 06, 2013, 02:20:35 PM
I thought I read somewhere that you can only take charge of one battle/turn, and the rest have to be auto-resolved. Can SoM confirm that?
Title: Re: Dragon Commander is out...today!
Post by: Windigo on August 06, 2013, 02:49:39 PM
Quote from: Jarhead0331 on August 06, 2013, 11:21:28 AM
Its shocking how many xxx pictures of gay dragons there are floating around on the web.

it never would have crossed my mind that such a thing existed.... these forums are good for expanding one's field of possiblities
Title: Re: Dragon Commander is out...today!
Post by: Gusington on August 06, 2013, 03:28:07 PM
Note that I am indeed under the weather and found that Gay Dragon Commander was released just by chance.
Title: Re: Dragon Commander is out...today!
Post by: Jarhead0331 on August 06, 2013, 03:38:23 PM
Quote from: Jarhead0331 on August 06, 2013, 11:21:28 AM
Its shocking how many xxx pictures of gay dragons there are floating around on the web.

I think this is signature line quote worthy.  Please help yourself to it.
Title: Re: Dragon Commander is out...today!
Post by: son_of_montfort on August 06, 2013, 04:42:16 PM
Quote from: tgb on August 06, 2013, 02:20:35 PM
I thought I read somewhere that you can only take charge of one battle/turn, and the rest have to be auto-resolved. Can SoM confirm that?

I just now confirmed this. You control one battle and you either have a general-less army auto-resolve for free or you pay a general 5 gold to auto-resolve with a better chance of victory (depending on their specialty).

I'm really digging the political aspect. The sheer amount of conversation and dialog options makes the game feel more like an RPG.
Title: Re: Dragon Commander is out...today!
Post by: tgb on August 06, 2013, 04:50:20 PM
Quote from: son_of_montfort on August 06, 2013, 04:42:16 PM
Quote from: tgb on August 06, 2013, 02:20:35 PM
I thought I read somewhere that you can only take charge of one battle/turn, and the rest have to be auto-resolved. Can SoM confirm that?

I just now confirmed this. You control one battle and you either have a general-less army auto-resolve for free or you pay a general 5 gold to auto-resolve with a better chance of victory (depending on their specialty).

I'm really digging the political aspect. The sheer amount of conversation and dialog options makes the game feel more like an RPG.

So how enjoyable/playable is this if you skip the rts and action parts and just play the strategic game, auto-resolving everything?
Title: Re: Dragon Commander is out...today!
Post by: Bison on August 06, 2013, 04:56:03 PM
(https://www.grogheads.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.vh1.com%2Fcelebrity%2Fbwe%2Fimages%2F2011%2F12%2Fgirl-red-dragon-tattoo-1324048139.jpg&hash=54cf822b38d00bed644340df1855a60dab53a4db)
Title: Re: Dragon Commander is out...today!
Post by: Rayfer on August 06, 2013, 05:11:12 PM
If that's real, it must have hurt like a son-of-a-b getting it done.
Title: Re: Dragon Commander is out...today!
Post by: Jarhead0331 on August 06, 2013, 05:17:05 PM
Quote from: Rayfer on August 06, 2013, 05:11:12 PM
If that's real, it must have hurt like a son-of-a-b getting it done.

I don't have breasts, but I do have a chest panel, and yes, it hurt like a b*tch. 
Title: Re: Dragon Commander is out...today!
Post by: son_of_montfort on August 06, 2013, 07:07:52 PM
Quote from: tgb on August 06, 2013, 04:50:20 PM
Quote from: son_of_montfort on August 06, 2013, 04:42:16 PM
Quote from: tgb on August 06, 2013, 02:20:35 PM
I thought I read somewhere that you can only take charge of one battle/turn, and the rest have to be auto-resolved. Can SoM confirm that?

I just now confirmed this. You control one battle and you either have a general-less army auto-resolve for free or you pay a general 5 gold to auto-resolve with a better chance of victory (depending on their specialty).

I'm really digging the political aspect. The sheer amount of conversation and dialog options makes the game feel more like an RPG.

So how enjoyable/playable is this if you skip the rts and action parts and just play the strategic game, auto-resolving everything?

I would say this would be extremely boring and not very successful. Part of the draw is playing the flying dragon of doom, turning the tide of a battle by blitzing everything in your path. In that, the game is a little like Sacrifice (an obscure reference, but bound to be understood by these learned readers). The political stuff is fun, but not a game in itself. Also, the impact of political decisions show up on the battlefields, so you would miss the repercussions of your decisions. Otherwise, the game is just moving dudes around, sort of like Risk.

Quote from: Jarhead0331 on August 06, 2013, 05:17:05 PM
Quote from: Rayfer on August 06, 2013, 05:11:12 PM
If that's real, it must have hurt like a son-of-a-b getting it done.

I don't have breasts, but I do have a chest panel, and yes, it hurt like a b*tch. 

You don't have breasts? Like a Ken doll?  :P
Title: Re: Dragon Commander is out...today!
Post by: undercovergeek on August 06, 2013, 07:26:13 PM
http://perezhilton.com/2011-11-29-a-revenge-tattoo-artist-puts-poop-tattoo-on-his-cheating-girlfriend#sthash.jBbTin6N.dpbs

never mess with the tattoo artist
Title: Re: Dragon Commander is out...today!
Post by: LongBlade on August 06, 2013, 07:53:55 PM
Quote from: Bison on August 06, 2013, 04:56:03 PM
(https://www.grogheads.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.vh1.com%2Fcelebrity%2Fbwe%2Fimages%2F2011%2F12%2Fgirl-red-dragon-tattoo-1324048139.jpg&hash=54cf822b38d00bed644340df1855a60dab53a4db)

That might be the breast dragon tat I've ever seen.
Title: Re: Dragon Commander is out...today!
Post by: Jarhead0331 on August 06, 2013, 07:55:12 PM
^Nah...I've seen breaster.
Title: Re: Dragon Commander is out...today!
Post by: LongBlade on August 06, 2013, 07:57:02 PM
I started to look for Aquaman tats on some chick's boobs but I got distracted.

(https://www.grogheads.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2F3.bp.blogspot.com%2F-8j7iuJwNYA0%2FTzRpVSsqOII%2FAAAAAAAABQQ%2Fs25PoXZCcE0%2Fs320%2Fgood-spook-bad-spock.jpg&hash=34132a84d1b538840e58fe0ad101f708a6a68ba3)
Title: Re: Dragon Commander is out...today!
Post by: Gusington on August 06, 2013, 08:19:10 PM
 :o
Title: Re: Dragon Commander is out...today!
Post by: son_of_montfort on August 06, 2013, 08:31:15 PM
I think this pic from Dragon Commander encapsulates a perfect reaction to the above (ignore the text, only look at face).

Title: Re: Dragon Commander is out...today!
Post by: Sir Slash on August 06, 2013, 09:38:13 PM
That's the problem with breastfeeding, there's nothing pretty to look at. Except for the other one I mean. Now... problem solved. We are making the whole world a better place here at Grogheads. ::)
Title: Re: Dragon Commander is out...today!
Post by: Yskonyn on August 06, 2013, 11:30:10 PM
Why does covering your nipples suddenly makes it fine to be photographed?
Title: Re: Dragon Commander is out...today!
Post by: Jarhead0331 on August 07, 2013, 06:17:43 AM
Quote from: Yskonyn on August 06, 2013, 11:30:10 PM
Why does covering your nipples suddenly makes it fine to be photographed?

It doesn't. Doesn't make it fine to be posted either. Our apologies.
Title: Re: Dragon Commander is out...today!
Post by: Yskonyn on August 07, 2013, 07:50:57 AM
Well as long as it isn't my wife, no objections. :P Within reason now; don't start posting senior 'hangers'
Title: Re: Dragon Commander is out...today!
Post by: mikeck on August 07, 2013, 08:02:32 AM
Meh... Just a boob.  No biggie
Title: Re: Dragon Commander is out...today!
Post by: Yskonyn on August 07, 2013, 08:08:16 AM
I meant it ironically; if they show a nipple everyone goes; 'that is indecent!', but if they cover the nipple while the biggest part of the breast is still visible people generally just shrug.
I find it fascinating that the nipple is such a protagonist. :P
Title: Re: Dragon Commander is out...today!
Post by: Sir Slash on August 07, 2013, 08:57:23 AM
Behave yourselves, Nipples!!!
Title: Re: Dragon Commander is out...today!
Post by: mikeck on August 07, 2013, 09:04:06 AM
Kind of like the butt crack...ok to show a butt in a thong but can't actually show the butt without it. Who knows
Title: Re: Dragon Commander is out...today!
Post by: LongBlade on August 07, 2013, 09:35:06 AM
It leaves something to the imagination. I guess.

Probably why the vast majority of us practice procreation indoors.
Title: Re: Dragon Commander is out...today!
Post by: Bison on August 07, 2013, 09:39:58 AM
I guess you all could go back to discussing the homoeroticism of dragons.  Me?  I'm not a fan of homoeroticism of any sort, but I do like boobs.  I like them a lot.  One might even suggest I love them and they would be correct.
Title: Re: Dragon Commander is out...today!
Post by: PanzersEast on August 07, 2013, 09:48:21 AM
Sorry but I photoshopped the image below as every time I see it I think of....  :P


(https://www.grogheads.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Flinesofcommand.com%2Fimages%2Fskel.jpg&hash=32f98b3d69d8ab37a2d38fa2a1ea672c41dbc94c)



PE
Title: Re: Dragon Commander is out...today!
Post by: LongBlade on August 07, 2013, 09:49:11 AM
Quote from: Bison on August 07, 2013, 09:39:58 AM
I guess you all could go back to discussing the homoeroticism of dragons.  Me?  I'm not a fan of homoeroticism of any sort, but I do like boobs.  I like them a lot.  One might even suggest I love them and they would be correct.

Hey, for the record I never suggested anything of the sort. That was entirely JHs' fault. First, last, and middle.
Title: Re: Dragon Commander is out...today!
Post by: Bison on August 07, 2013, 09:54:56 AM
I'm just a practitioner of boob apologetics.
Title: Re: Dragon Commander is out...today!
Post by: Gusington on August 07, 2013, 10:07:42 AM
The day anyone apologizes for boobs is the day I, er...do something I would never do. Or something. What I am failing to say is boobs need no apology. Unless of course they are old, low hangers...like soap in a sock.
Title: Re: Dragon Commander is out...today!
Post by: Nefaro on August 07, 2013, 10:37:43 AM
The pathword ithh...  "NIPPLE".


(https://www.grogheads.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimages4.fanpop.com%2Fimage%2Fphotos%2F16500000%2FJim-Carrey-as-Chip-Douglas-in-The-Cable-Guy-jim-carrey-16534782-1152-656.jpg&hash=c0d56618e5e7c0da10c2feb5855b8f6f2039a5e0)
Title: Re: Dragon Commander is out...today!
Post by: Windigo on August 07, 2013, 10:44:22 AM
Quote from: Bison on August 07, 2013, 09:39:58 AM
I guess you all could go back to discussing the homoeroticism of dragons.  Me?  I'm not a fan of homoeroticism of any sort, but I do like boobs.  I like them a lot.  One might even suggest I love them and they would be correct.

what this guy said... +1
Title: Re: Dragon Commander is out...today!
Post by: son_of_montfort on August 07, 2013, 11:00:41 AM
If anybody cares about the actual topic of the thread...  :P

I got several hours in last night and, for some odd reason, I really enjoy the game. I was actually sort of wrong when I told TGB that playing only the strategic portion and auto-resolving would not be fun - it actually is. Obviously the battles are more fun, but the strategic map has its draw. The game is fairly simplistic as an TBS/RTS, but it feels "right." The RTS portion is clicky, frenetic, and arcade-oriented, but that also "feels right." The big draw is the character and story development in between turns, which is actually much better than most RTS out there. You get a feeling for the personalities, beliefs, and goals of each character. There is also a sort of sense that you are being manipulated and lied to... a vague notion that these politicians, princesses, and generals have ulterior motives and intrigues and are trying to use you as a puppet. The replay seems very strong as you have a multitude of dialog options and decisions to completely alter the game. You also have four princesses that will alter the story significantly. Choosing which one to marry was a bit agonizing, because all seemed interesting (except, maybe, the elf). Finally I settled on the Dwarf, because I liked her sassy nature (and she is a red-head).

The characters also remember your decisions, which is nice. So when you refuse to, say, force the Undead to accept female suffrage, one of your generals cajoles you for it when other things arise.

This game is certainly an example of "the whole is greater than the sum of its parts" as each piece alone would be boring and flat but all together it is interesting and fun.
Title: Re: Dragon Commander is out...today!
Post by: Jarhead0331 on August 07, 2013, 11:01:10 AM
Everyone knows breasts are great.  Lets actually start talking about the game again.  Believe it or not, I almost bought it last night.  The tutorial videos are pretty enticing. But I held off...there is so much stuff coming out over the next two weeks.
Title: Re: Dragon Commander is out...today!
Post by: son_of_montfort on August 07, 2013, 11:20:41 AM
Knowing your game preferences (which are a lot like mine), you would probably like it (but not *love* it). I really really like it, but most people can wait for the inevitable sale. Mine just came as part of the KS, so it was basically gravy.
Title: Re: Dragon Commander is out...today!
Post by: Jarhead0331 on August 07, 2013, 11:22:52 AM
Quote from: son_of_montfort on August 07, 2013, 11:20:41 AM
Knowing your game preferences (which are a lot like mine), you would probably like it (but not *love* it). I really really like it, but most people can wait for the inevitable sale. Mine just came as part of the KS, so it was basically gravy.

Your assessment is probably spot on.  I will try to wait for a breast reduction...errrrr...I mean a price reduction.

(See what I did there?)
Title: Re: Dragon Commander is out...today!
Post by: Bison on August 07, 2013, 11:26:50 AM
Way to make the breast of the situation JH.
Title: Re: Dragon Commander is out...today!
Post by: Windigo on August 07, 2013, 11:28:56 AM
(https://www.grogheads.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Ft2.gstatic.com%2Fimages%3Fq%3Dtbn%3AANd9GcTv64sR1_hahzOtx-2eog3QR-a0LboOK38F37ifbu1TeufWxKJfpQ&hash=039be728efe7b0c1495aa6a97827727a2b5d0916)
Title: Re: Dragon Commander is out...today!
Post by: Windigo on August 07, 2013, 11:32:50 AM
Quote from: Jarhead0331 on August 07, 2013, 11:22:52 AM
Quote from: son_of_montfort on August 07, 2013, 11:20:41 AM
Knowing your game preferences (which are a lot like mine), you would probably like it (but not *love* it). I really really like it, but most people can wait for the inevitable sale. Mine just came as part of the KS, so it was basically gravy.

Your assessment is probably spot on.  I will try to wait for a breast reduction...errrrr...I mean a price reduction.

(See what I did there?)

Hey new dad... how goes the the whole dad gig for you? I hope you're getting decent night time sleep.
Title: Re: Dragon Commander is out...today!
Post by: Gusington on August 07, 2013, 12:40:58 PM
Ok Mr. Doesn't Interest me in the Least.

SoM did you type Undead female suffrage??

I think I'm losing it. All it takes is vigorous breast discussion and you guys, even JH, can be convinced to buy anything.
Title: Re: Dragon Commander is out...today!
Post by: son_of_montfort on August 07, 2013, 01:00:17 PM
Quote from: Gusington on August 07, 2013, 12:40:58 PM
Ok Mr. Doesn't Interest me in the Least.

SoM did you type Undead female suffrage??

I think I'm losing it. All it takes is vigorous breast discussion and you guys, even JH, can be convinced to buy anything.

I did. I also approved of State-funded Imp Steampunk limb surgeries for indigent dwarves crippled in mine collapses.
Title: Re: Dragon Commander is out...today!
Post by: Gusington on August 07, 2013, 01:02:37 PM
Very liberal of you!
Title: Re: Dragon Commander is out...today!
Post by: Jarhead0331 on August 07, 2013, 01:03:19 PM
Quote from: Windigo on August 07, 2013, 11:32:50 AM
Quote from: Jarhead0331 on August 07, 2013, 11:22:52 AM
Quote from: son_of_montfort on August 07, 2013, 11:20:41 AM
Knowing your game preferences (which are a lot like mine), you would probably like it (but not *love* it). I really really like it, but most people can wait for the inevitable sale. Mine just came as part of the KS, so it was basically gravy.

Your assessment is probably spot on.  I will try to wait for a breast reduction...errrrr...I mean a price reduction.

(See what I did there?)

Hey new dad... how goes the the whole dad gig for you? I hope you're getting decent night time sleep.

Thank you for asking, you are a gentleman and a scholar.  Baby Amelia sleeps soundly through the night.  We put her down at 2100 and she doesn't make a peep until 0900 the following morning.  I'm so damn proud.
Title: Re: Dragon Commander is out...today!
Post by: Windigo on August 07, 2013, 01:06:24 PM
freekin' hell, but thats awesome, can't ever say I got more than 5 straight hours til the kids were all past a year.... I hate you!
Title: Re: Dragon Commander is out...today!
Post by: Jarhead0331 on August 07, 2013, 01:18:41 PM
(https://sphotos-b-iad.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ash4/995719_10151723471707702_140517480_n.jpg)
Title: Re: Dragon Commander is out...today!
Post by: LongBlade on August 07, 2013, 01:22:07 PM
Quote from: Jarhead0331 on August 07, 2013, 01:18:41 PM
(https://sphotos-b-iad.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ash4/995719_10151723471707702_140517480_n.jpg)

Ha! :)
Title: Re: Dragon Commander is out...today!
Post by: Sir Slash on August 07, 2013, 03:25:24 PM
Congrats Jarhead! This world needs more beautiful women in it.
Title: Re: Dragon Commander is out...today!
Post by: Martok on August 07, 2013, 03:39:53 PM
Thanks for the impressions/feedback SoM.  Your posts have put me on the tipping point of getting this, except for the mention of "clicky" battles.  (There's a reason I've long preferred the pace of TW-style combat.)  Sounds like I may want to get it when it goes on sale. 





Quote from: LongBlade on August 06, 2013, 07:57:02 PM
I started to look for Aquaman tats on some chick's boobs but I got distracted.

(https://www.grogheads.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2F3.bp.blogspot.com%2F-8j7iuJwNYA0%2FTzRpVSsqOII%2FAAAAAAAABQQ%2Fs25PoXZCcE0%2Fs320%2Fgood-spook-bad-spock.jpg&hash=34132a84d1b538840e58fe0ad101f708a6a68ba3)
Awesome!! 

If she didn't appear to be so damn young (and very possibly underage), I would find and marry this girl immediately. 




Quote from: Yskonyn on August 07, 2013, 08:08:16 AM
I find it fascinating that the nipple is such a protagonist. :P
...Aaaaand there's another line I have to sig.  Well done sir.  :)   





Quote from: Jarhead0331 on August 07, 2013, 01:18:41 PM
(https://sphotos-b-iad.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ash4/995719_10151723471707702_140517480_n.jpg)
Outstanding!  That pic is full of win. 

Glad she's sleeping through the night so well, Jarhead.  From everything I've ever seen & heard, you and Amy are very lucky (and/or just damn good) parents.  8) 

Title: Re: Dragon Commander is out...today!
Post by: Jarhead0331 on August 07, 2013, 03:51:59 PM
Quote from: Yskonyn on August 07, 2013, 08:08:16 AM
I meant it ironically; if they show a nipple everyone goes; 'that is indecent!', but if they cover the nipple while the biggest part of the breast is still visible people generally just shrug.
I find it fascinating that the nipple is such a protagonist. :P

In this context, wouldn't the nipple actually be the "antagonist?"
Title: Re: Dragon Commander is out...today!
Post by: Bison on August 07, 2013, 03:57:20 PM
Quote from: Jarhead0331 on August 07, 2013, 03:51:59 PM
Quote from: Yskonyn on August 07, 2013, 08:08:16 AM
I meant it ironically; if they show a nipple everyone goes; 'that is indecent!', but if they cover the nipple while the biggest part of the breast is still visible people generally just shrug.
I find it fascinating that the nipple is such a protagonist. :P

In this context, wouldn't the nipple actually be the "antagonist?"

It's areola you look at it.
Title: Re: Dragon Commander is out...today!
Post by: Gusington on August 07, 2013, 04:37:07 PM
^That's a stretch [mark].
Title: Re: Dragon Commander is out...today!
Post by: Bison on August 07, 2013, 05:43:39 PM
There's a flapjack joke in all of this somehow.
Title: Re: Dragon Commander is out...today!
Post by: BanzaiCat on August 07, 2013, 07:08:17 PM
Keep us abreast of this situation.
Title: Re: Dragon Commander is out...today!
Post by: WYBaugh on August 07, 2013, 07:39:36 PM
I'm very titillated about this game.
Title: Re: Dragon Commander is out...today!
Post by: Gusington on August 07, 2013, 07:55:35 PM
Although a bit on the weird side there appears to be an ample bosom of features included. I hope sales are strong and the game doesn't go tits up.
Title: Re: Dragon Commander is out...today!
Post by: Bison on August 07, 2013, 07:58:51 PM
It'd be really depressing if they started sagging so soon after being exposed to the public.
Title: Re: Dragon Commander is out...today!
Post by: Staggerwing on August 07, 2013, 07:59:04 PM
Where, oh chest where is all this punnery headed?
Title: Re: Dragon Commander is out...today!
Post by: BanzaiCat on August 07, 2013, 08:03:02 PM
These guys will no doubt milk this for all it's worth.
Title: Re: Dragon Commander is out...today!
Post by: Gusington on August 07, 2013, 08:26:18 PM
We are all bosom buddies after all.
Title: Re: Dragon Commander is out...today!
Post by: Bison on August 07, 2013, 08:40:40 PM
I'm just waiting for this to rack up some reviews first.
Title: Re: Dragon Commander is out...today!
Post by: Staggerwing on August 07, 2013, 08:51:50 PM
Quote from: Bison on August 07, 2013, 08:40:40 PM
I'm just waiting for this to rack up some reviews first.

Drat. I was going to work that one in next but you nipped it ahead of me...
Title: Re: Dragon Commander is out...today!
Post by: Sir Slash on August 07, 2013, 09:54:17 PM
Damn. I'd like to shake her hand. Both actually. At the same time. I see Spock and Spock but where do you think she keeps Capt. Kirk I wonder? Or is it Mc Coy? "Dammit Jim. I'm a doctor not a Brazilian!" ;D ;D ;D
Title: Re: Dragon Commander is out...today!
Post by: Yskonyn on August 08, 2013, 03:34:02 AM
I just think jugg'ling all those units in real time is a bit too chaotit for me.
Title: Re: Dragon Commander is out...today!
Post by: Jarhead0331 on August 08, 2013, 05:29:39 AM
Just seems to me that the developers are trying to milk too many genres at once. They have mountains to overcome in combining it all successfully.  From a technical perspective, the mounds of code will require a lot of support. It will be interesting to see how much promised content gets sucked into DLC.
Title: Re: Dragon Commander is out...today!
Post by: BanzaiCat on August 08, 2013, 06:49:03 AM
In actuality, the code can't be all that bad, mostly due to an appealing yet simple trick in the coding that reuses lines instead of just packing in additional lines that do the exact same thing. This in turn makes the programming much more efficient, because sweater muffins.
Title: Re: Dragon Commander is out...today!
Post by: Gusington on August 08, 2013, 07:52:41 AM
I saw that.
Title: Re: Dragon Commander is out...today!
Post by: W8taminute on August 08, 2013, 11:09:31 AM
I love muffins.
Title: Re: Dragon Commander is out...today!
Post by: Martok on August 08, 2013, 11:38:17 AM
Sorry to derail the pun-tastic goodness going on here, but any further impressions SoM?  I'm especially curious as to how you feel the strategic side of the game plays out. 





Quote from: Jarhead0331 on August 08, 2013, 05:29:39 AM
Just seems to me that the developers are trying to milk too many genres at once. They have mountains to overcome in combining it all successfully.  From a technical perspective, the mounds of code will require a lot of support. It will be interesting to see how much promised content gets sucked into DLC.
I'm simply in awe.  Brilliant! 

Title: Re: Dragon Commander is out...today!
Post by: Bison on August 08, 2013, 11:54:29 AM
So when is the review going to bust out for public oogling?
Title: Re: Dragon Commander is out...today!
Post by: son_of_montfort on August 08, 2013, 12:27:02 PM
Quote from: Martok on August 08, 2013, 11:38:17 AM
Sorry to derail the pun-tastic goodness going on here, but any further impressions SoM?  I'm especially curious as to how you feel the strategic side of the game plays out. 

I sort of quit writing about it when it felt like the derail had overtaken the actual thread. I figured interest level was fairly low and didn't want to look like... wait for it... a boob.

The game is still fairly interesting and has a certain charm that is hard to deny. One thing I did learn is that you can use the +/- keys to change the speed of the RTS battles, which makes them much easier to handle and much easier to use some of your upgraded units special powers. And these special powers are quite something, many of them can change the entire battle. For example, the Charm skill, which can steal a unit for a limited time. If, say, they steal your balloon bombers, well, you are likely screwed. That level of customization is really interesting.

I have also gotten to the third and final act. Act I and II were fairly easy, I barely lost a battle unless I just was surprised or planned poorly. The third act ups the difficulty dramatically, you only have one opponent, he has far more resources than you, and he has more strategy cards and research than you. This works thematically with the story, but I am trying to quickly reconfigure everything so that I can find a way to win this. No more easy victories and your dragon, while still useful, needs to be used more judiciously.

The story is fun, equal parts humor, political intrigue, dark deeds (or potential dark deeds), and Machiavellian plots. I mentioned at Octopus Overlords that the RPG portion reminds me of the original Dune adventure strategy game - not the one by Westwood, the one by Sega. That is a reference that won't resonate with many people, but those that did play it will understand.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dune_%28video_game%29
Title: Re: Dragon Commander is out...today!
Post by: LongBlade on August 08, 2013, 01:34:04 PM
w00t!

The devs came through with a review key for me.

SoM, LMK if you're up for some multiplayer.
Title: Re: Dragon Commander is out...today!
Post by: LongBlade on August 08, 2013, 01:36:47 PM
Also, it looks like they're working on a second release - maybe US?

Anyway, expect a patch soon (though SoM hasn't complained of bugs or balance issues, clearly they're working on polishing the game).

QuoteNote: We'll be updating the review version between now and release, implementing fixes so don't be surprised if new downloads are initiated

     •      There are a couple of crashes we're searching for but in
general it should be fairly stable.

     •      There is an issue with the auto-resolve combat calculations
that we're looking at

     •      We're adding more campaign maps for multiplayer & custom
story campaigns

     •      We're tweaking the balancing values still (especially on
hard & on casual)

     •      We're expanding the in-combat tutorial sections

     •      We're adding Steam achievements + more advanced leaderboard
functionality

     •      There are some English strings still in other languages

Over the next couple of days you'll also see a few UI and polish improvements happening.
Title: Re: Dragon Commander is out...today!
Post by: Bison on August 08, 2013, 01:37:19 PM
W(.)(.)T!!!
Title: Re: Dragon Commander is out...today!
Post by: Martok on August 08, 2013, 03:05:33 PM
How scripted/open is the campaign?  You talk about the game occurring in three Acts.  Are they heavily rails-driven, or do you have a decent degree of freedom? 

Title: Re: Dragon Commander is out...today!
Post by: son_of_montfort on August 08, 2013, 10:42:46 PM
Quote from: Martok on August 08, 2013, 03:05:33 PM
How scripted/open is the campaign?  You talk about the game occurring in three Acts.  Are they heavily rails-driven, or do you have a decent degree of freedom?

Huge degree of strategic freedom, but the main story has a progression. So you chose where, who, and how to battle, but you got against the same "bad guys." The first act is against one of your siblings, on a small map. The second act is against several of your siblings (they do fight one another as well) on a medium map. The last act... well... I'm not going to spoil, but you have one adversary and a large map.

I haven't detected any bugs, but I could see that a little bit of tweaking might be needed. I think Charm is OP and the dragon feels a little fragile.
Title: Re: Dragon Commander is out...today!
Post by: GroggyGrognard on August 09, 2013, 03:30:15 AM
Quote from: Gusington on August 06, 2013, 08:45:12 AM
Looks like today was a good day to call in sick...


Meh.
Title: Re: Dragon Commander is out...today!
Post by: Martok on August 09, 2013, 02:51:22 PM
Quote from: son_of_montfort on August 08, 2013, 10:42:46 PM
Quote from: Martok on August 08, 2013, 03:05:33 PM
How scripted/open is the campaign?  You talk about the game occurring in three Acts.  Are they heavily rails-driven, or do you have a decent degree of freedom?

Huge degree of strategic freedom, but the main story has a progression. So you chose where, who, and how to battle, but you got against the same "bad guys." The first act is against one of your siblings, on a small map. The second act is against several of your siblings (they do fight one another as well) on a medium map. The last act... well... I'm not going to spoil, but you have one adversary and a large map.
Cool. 

I'm blanking out atm -- is there going to be a sandbox mode at all?   




Quote from: son_of_montfort on August 08, 2013, 10:42:46 PM
I haven't detected any bugs, but I could see that a little bit of tweaking might be needed. I think Charm is OP and the dragon feels a little fragile.
Well it would of course be the rare game that didn't require at least some tweaking after release (if only for balance purposes).  If that's the worst you've noticed so far, I'd say the devs had done a pretty solid job. 

Title: Re: Dragon Commander is out...today!
Post by: Silent Disapproval Robot on August 09, 2013, 03:06:29 PM
Here's a video showing about 40 minutes of gameplay.  Looks like it could be fun but I'm going to wait for a sale.

http://www.giantbomb.com/videos/quick-look-divinity-dragon-commander/2300-7793/ (http://www.giantbomb.com/videos/quick-look-divinity-dragon-commander/2300-7793/)
Title: Re: Dragon Commander is out...today!
Post by: son_of_montfort on August 09, 2013, 05:26:11 PM
Martok, I think the skirmishes and MP are more "sandbox" but they do not include the political portion IIRC.
Title: Re: Dragon Commander is out...today!
Post by: Martok on August 10, 2013, 12:22:39 AM
Thanks Monty

Title: Re: Dragon Commander is out...today!
Post by: JasonPratt on August 10, 2013, 11:48:26 PM
My impression from watching the extensive Steam promotional video is that there is a random campaign generator (with some customization options) which creates new campaigns with random story features.

Better than sandbox???
Title: Re: Dragon Commander is out...today!
Post by: LongBlade on August 13, 2013, 12:08:07 PM
I had fun with my first go-round, though I was crushed before Turn 10.

I'm not sure how to produce units. My first decision was whether to implement a draft. I elected not to. It didn't end well.
Title: Re: Dragon Commander is out...today!
Post by: son_of_montfort on August 13, 2013, 06:27:04 PM
Quote from: LongBlade on August 13, 2013, 12:08:07 PM
I had fun with my first go-round, though I was crushed before Turn 10.

I'm not sure how to produce units. My first decision was whether to implement a draft. I elected not to. It didn't end well.

You crazy liberal! This is war time!

You produce units on the strategy map by clicking on provinces with war factories. There is a "buy units button" you press, then decide how many and what type. A isn't you can produce is limited by province pop and money.
Title: Re: Dragon Commander is out...today!
Post by: LongBlade on August 13, 2013, 07:33:02 PM
Quote from: son_of_montfort on August 13, 2013, 06:27:04 PM
Quote from: LongBlade on August 13, 2013, 12:08:07 PM
I had fun with my first go-round, though I was crushed before Turn 10.

I'm not sure how to produce units. My first decision was whether to implement a draft. I elected not to. It didn't end well.

You crazy liberal! This is war time!

You produce units on the strategy map by clicking on provinces with war factories. There is a "buy units button" you press, then decide how many and what type. A isn't you can produce is limited by province pop and money.

Thanks. I figured that out the second time through - it's a right click.

Have you found the AI hard? I got crushed on Normal and Easy. I'm thinking of going to Casual!
Title: Re: Dragon Commander is out...today!
Post by: Windigo on August 13, 2013, 08:27:33 PM
Quote from: LongBlade on August 13, 2013, 07:33:02 PM
Quote from: son_of_montfort on August 13, 2013, 06:27:04 PM
Quote from: LongBlade on August 13, 2013, 12:08:07 PM
I had fun with my first go-round, though I was crushed before Turn 10.

I'm not sure how to produce units. My first decision was whether to implement a draft. I elected not to. It didn't end well.

You crazy liberal! This is war time!

You produce units on the strategy map by clicking on provinces with war factories. There is a "buy units button" you press, then decide how many and what type. A isn't you can produce is limited by province pop and money.

Thanks. I figured that out the second time through - it's a right click.

Have you found the AI hard? I got crushed on Normal and Easy. I'm thinking of going to Casual!
[/b]

(https://www.grogheads.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.costumeshopper.com%2Fmm5%2Fgraphics%2F00000001%2F58558.jpg&hash=438175859e96780bff3b7bad7c904827cdbd9ede)
Title: Re: Dragon Commander is out...today!
Post by: Gusington on August 13, 2013, 08:40:10 PM
That's *really* casual.
Title: Re: Dragon Commander is out...today!
Post by: Sir Slash on August 13, 2013, 09:47:53 PM
If that's what you've got to wear to play this game, I don't want any part. That could've been me as a baby but I preferred to be breast-fed. DON'T START THAT AGAIN!
Title: Re: Dragon Commander is out...today!
Post by: Windigo on August 14, 2013, 12:30:13 AM
Quote from: Sir Slash on August 13, 2013, 09:47:53 PM
If that's what you've got to wear to play this game, I don't want any part. That could've been me as a baby but I preferred to be breast-fed. DON'T START THAT AGAIN!

I just couldnèt find the graphic from doom for the Don't hurt me mommy skill level
Title: Re: Dragon Commander is out...today!
Post by: LongBlade on August 14, 2013, 09:21:18 AM
Quote from: Windigo on August 14, 2013, 12:30:13 AM
Quote from: Sir Slash on August 13, 2013, 09:47:53 PM
If that's what you've got to wear to play this game, I don't want any part. That could've been me as a baby but I preferred to be breast-fed. DON'T START THAT AGAIN!

I just couldnèt find the graphic from doom for the Don't hurt me mommy skill level

Yeah, I put it on Don't Hurt Me.

But now I can see what's going on without getting completely clobbered. I played it for about three hours last night and started to really enjoy it.

The RTS element isn't so click-festy - at least on Don't Hurt Me. However, the FPS perspective of the dragon? I couldn't mash the left mouse button fast enough in one game.

I managed to take down one kingdom, so I want to play on Don't Hurt Me for a bit longer to see how the game progresses, then I'll restart on a higher difficulty level.

So far I really like this game, but the jury is still out on the RTS side. Personally, I'd rather avoid it. However, it may be like the Total War series that once I have built up a core set of holdings and troops I may be able to turn my generals loose on a battle without too much problem.
Title: Re: Dragon Commander is out...today!
Post by: Windigo on August 14, 2013, 10:24:24 AM
Quote from: LongBlade on August 14, 2013, 09:21:18 AM
Quote from: Windigo on August 14, 2013, 12:30:13 AM
Quote from: Sir Slash on August 13, 2013, 09:47:53 PM
If that's what you've got to wear to play this game, I don't want any part. That could've been me as a baby but I preferred to be breast-fed. DON'T START THAT AGAIN!

I just couldnèt find the graphic from doom for the Don't hurt me mommy skill level

Yeah, I put it on Don't Hurt Me.

But now I can see what's going on without getting completely clobbered. I played it for about three hours last night and started to really enjoy it.

The RTS element isn't so click-festy - at least on Don't Hurt Me. However, the FPS perspective of the dragon? I couldn't mash the left mouse button fast enough in one game.

I managed to take down one kingdom, so I want to play on Don't Hurt Me for a bit longer to see how the game progresses, then I'll restart on a higher difficulty level.

So far I really like this game, but the jury is still out on the RTS side. Personally, I'd rather avoid it. However, it may be like the Total War series that once I have built up a core set of holdings and troops I may be able to turn my generals loose on a battle without too much problem.

I completed the Supreme Commander 2 campaign yesterday... on normal difficulty .... at the slowest speed

then I went into skirmish mode and played two games with the skill setting on hard ... both games ran a total of about 15 minutes total where I was handed my ass


pass the baby bonnet when you're done LB
Title: Re: Dragon Commander is out...today!
Post by: BanzaiCat on September 14, 2013, 06:23:20 PM
I missed most of the hype/discussion of this game as it didn't look all that interesting at first glance. But then I read all of this, and watched The Angry Gamer's review of the game, and now Imma buy this.
Title: Re: Dragon Commander is out...today!
Post by: son_of_montfort on September 14, 2013, 09:55:28 PM
Quote from: LongBlade on August 13, 2013, 07:33:02 PM
Have you found the AI hard? I got crushed on Normal and Easy. I'm thinking of going to Casual!

The AI for me was quite a pushover until I got to Act III. Now it is a demon.

I slow have been taking a province here and there, but I am bracing for it to push a full assault on me. I'm also far less likely to overcome ridiculous odds (I was able to grab victory at 22% predictions, if I led the battle myself). No more odds breaking, and I'm barely able to succeed when the odds are in my favor! 
Title: Re: Dragon Commander is out...today!
Post by: Martok on September 15, 2013, 05:33:45 AM
SoM, do you feel the AI is simply getting massive advantages, or is it genuinely good at giving you hell?  (Or is it both?) 

Title: Re: Dragon Commander is out...today!
Post by: son_of_montfort on September 15, 2013, 09:28:57 AM
Quote from: Martok on September 15, 2013, 05:33:45 AM
SoM, do you feel the AI is simply getting massive advantages, or is it genuinely good at giving you hell?  (Or is it both?)

Weeellll.... the storyline works itself out to the AI getting massive advantages from a plot standpoint. But, it is also good about upgrading its units and quickly employing unit spells (something harder to do as a person) in the RTS portion. It seems very weak on the strategic map, but if it were stronger, I don't think there would any chance for victory, as it could simply out-produce and rush you. It is hard to say if this is just a poor AI or proper planning on the part of the Devs to make the game winnable.

That being said, I've seen the Rome II AI make dumber moves that the DC AI.