So, how is the gameplay?

[Rickenbacker]

Originally Posted by Topcat357

1) we have to run back and forth to each different station for information? This does not sound fun...switching from periscope to map to sonar, etc. Does this work? It sounds like the RPG elements are getting in the way of the actual game.
2) targeting / TDC controls seem kinda screwy sounding
3) finding important info, like depth under keel, sonar info, etc sound more complicated than they should be.

It's playable, and fun, but not very well documented or explained in-game.

1. You can check the map anywhere, which is VERY nice - navigation is one of the things that works really well in this game (except no return to course command, for some reason).
2. I'm on my fifth war patrol, and I still don't know how the auto-TDC works. Or if it does, I think something is missing, as it seems to need you to lead the targets manually until the arrow turns green. A little silly if you ask me. On the other hand, feeding the targeting data to the XO manually is simpler than before, using a question/answer format that is pretty fun to use - if only it was explained in the manual, or anywhere at all. You can find out how to use all the bits and pieces here on the forum, though.
3. Nah, finding out the depth isn't complicated, you just can't do it . Sonar info is fed to the map (unless you deselect that in the options), showing some new stuff that wasn't in SH4, like the estimated range each ship can spot/hear you from at your current speed. Works very well.