Rating WWII subsims old and new

[MarkShot]

{I am hoping that this forum can handle this post. I know that the SH3 forums would probably crucify me for not find SH3/GWX as the highest form of sub evolution that has or will ever exist for the U-boat.}

I recently posted the following on a private discussion forum. At the risk of igniting an oil tanker, here it is in public. My primary intention was to look at the heart of these game and the game play aspect.

I've played all three within the last month. Too often, I think SH3/GWX is a "hands down" winner simply on graphics alone. However, the classics are easily playable on today's new new machines with XP/DOSBOX or Vista/DOSBOX. I plan to be playing a lot of WWII sub sims in 2008 and I will tell you that I plan to be enjoying of the following which have been rated. I may also add SH3/NYGM and SH3/WAC; possibly give SH4+mods a try too.

Graphics: SH3/GWX, SHCE, AOD

Sound: SH3/GWX, SHCE, AOD

Other:

(1) If you are not fond of 3D stations, then the 2D stations of SHCE are the best.

(2) The sonar station of SH3/GWX although not being as steeped in realism as SC/DW creates tremendous atomosphere where as AOD and SHCE only provide situational awareness.

(3) The map and charting features of SH3 are unparalled.

(4) If you into role playing, then SH3's crew management has what you need.

(5) AOD provides for real wolfpacks and the radio is really alive in AOD. You can report convoys and get orders detailing you to shadow and finally attack as part of the pack.

I am getting close to the point of being able to
rate these games (hardest to easiest, left -> right):

Finding convoys: AOD, SH3/GWX, SHCE

Tracking convoys: SHCE, SH3/GWX, AOD

Surface screen penetration: SH3/GWX, SHCE, AOD

Surface attack: SH3/GWX, SHCE, AOD

Submerged screen penetration: AOD, SH3/GWX, SHCE

Submerged attack: SH3/GWX, AOD, SHCE

Undetected evasion: AOD, SHCE, SH3/GWX

Detected evasion: AOD, SHCE, SH3/GWX

Automated TDC: SH3/GWX, SHCE, AOD

Manual TDC: SH3/GWX, SHCE, AOD