Links
Favorite Links
Related to SSI
(The old SSI URL, www.ssionline.com, now links to a squatter site. Ubi Soft is apparently no longer interested in keeping the domain name registered. It is indeed a sad, sad day.)
SSI and Strategic Studies Group had a rich history together. SSG developed some of SSI's earliest wargames. SSG then went off on their own, but near the end of SSI's life, they published once more some of SSG's games including the new version of Reach for the Stars and some of the Warlords series.
Col. Brooks was one of the finest contributors to Computer Gaming World during its glory days of the 1980's. One may not always agree with his views, but I, for one, cannot help but greatly admire his writing and willingness to tell it like it is. Although a grognard, I sense in his reviews an interest in playability over the strictest historical accuracy. Thank goodness! Naturally, his site includes a very conclusive wargame list of all wargames from all publishers for all platforms including, of course, SSI's.
The Digital Antic Project is an impressive, intensive effort to bring all issues of the classic Atari 8-bit magazine, as well as its sister ST magazine STart to the web. In July 1985, a short piece on SSI's history was presented. SSI was one of the 8-bit Ataris most stalwart supporters, with titles still available quite some time after many other major publishers ceased support.
Another top-notch article from The Digital Antic Project.
This is the site for 2 by 3 Games, the new wargame company founded by Joel Billings, Gary Grigsby, and Keith Brors.
Tactical Simulations Interactive (TSI)
A new (as of summer 2014) company founded by SSI stalwarts Paul (Wizard's Crown) Murray and David Shelley.
A great fan site for SSI's greatest game.
Information about Imperialism and Imperialism II.
Scans of many of SSI's catalogs.
Museum of Computer Adventure Game History
The SSI section focusing on SSI's RPGs. Especially check out information on international releases including the MSX version of Phantasie.
Great Computer Games
If you have any interest in any aspect of mass-market entertainment, you owe it to yourself to check this game out. The player is in charge of a small movie studio and must attempt to make a profit. It is one of the most addictive, riveting games I have ever played. In fact, it would be on my Top 10 list of greatest PC games. Download the demo and try it for yourself.
I must assume that if you found my site, you're well familiar with Matrix. If not, head out and see how they're reinvigorating wargames. Just released by them is Uncommon Valour, the first game by 2by3 Games.
Another fine wargame publisher, HPS publishes many of the game from TalonSoft (R.I.P.) refugee John Tiller.
Not everyone likes their complex strategy titles, but Europa Universalis and EU 2 both reminded me strongly of SSI.
Personal Favorites
Santa Barbara--TV's finest hour
As SSI was to computer games in the 1980s, so was Santa Barbara to television. I cannot sing its praises highly enough.
This worldwide site contains fascinating information about the many appearances of Kalle Anke and Onkel Dagobert, er, Donald Duck and Uncle Scrooge, around the globe.
A resource for Amiga enthusiasts.
A resource for Atari enthusiasts.