After all the orders have been given, both sides at the same time, a simple click of the "Go" button sends the turn into motion. You can then use the camera system to view the turn from any angle. You can replay, rewind, or fast-forward at any time, which leads to some very exciting wargaming. The turn lasts 60 seconds and then it's back to the orders phase.
I cannot convey how crucial this single innovation turns out to be for armchair commanders. It eliminates that "his hex beat up your hex" feeling one gets from traditional wargames and even improves upon the fancier "miniatures in combat" feeling. The graphics don't look like Private Ryan but the action feels like it. Go into first person view, rotate to get the German perspective and watch as your hordes of infantry burst from the tree line and surge forward. See a Panzer roll around the corner and use its flamethrower to discourage infantry from remaining in that foxhole. It's a brilliant enhancement and, unlike many graphical additions to wargames, at no point will you grow bored and seek to ignore it. Also, since the turn occurs simultaneously and for 60 seconds there is nothing you can do, it sort of simulates the helplessness most commanders no doubt feel after the battle begins and the war is out of their hands. It isn't completely realistic, of course, but it's closer than ever achieved before.
