Jane's Combat Simulations: 688(I) Hunter/Killer

The Good
Detailed sonar simulation, good terrain features of the world, mission editor, plenty of missions, ability to improve submarines based on mission performance

The Bad
Lack of some famous opponents, like the Soviet Alfa-class SSN and Typhoon-class SSBN. Lack of non-Soviet Bloc opponents (what if we had to fight the Germans? or French?) Lack of dynamic campaign. Internet play limited to IP address matching, ability to improve submarine too "game-y", inability to get medals or citations. No "flag painting" (to commemorate your kills). Editor severely limited (it's not possible to created some of the included missions or the campaign with the built-in editor). No 3D acceleration (which means graphics are only average).

The Bottom Line
The current "king" of modern submarine simulation needs an upgrade or a remake. The stations are modelled expertly, as are the sonar and combat models. On the other hand, the torpedoe modelling can't seem to match the venerable Red Storm Rising, and the campaign is sorely lacking (only 16 missions). Still, it's the only game in town, and still highly recommended if you like the subject.

The Good
I especially enjoy its simplicity. I also own Sub Command and Dangerous Waters and although these two submarine simulations are top notch graphics wise, the player interface requires a bit more work.

The Bad
At first I did not like that it only allowed for the controlling/commanding of one type of sub. Both Sub Command and Dangerous Waters have changed that but not in the way that I had imagined. Now the playing field isn't so 'level' with missile-assisted torpedoes, all-seeing uuv's, ultra-sensitive sonar, etc., etc.

In 688(I) the playing field is level and each player lives, or dies, by their own skill.

The Bottom Line
It has a steep learning curve and games/hunts will very likely lasts longer than most would like but if you're the type that enjoys a long tedious hunt then Jane's 688(I) is for you. Impatience will certainly get you killed in this game and for the most part, patience is rewarded with a sunken enemy sub.