Despite Carrsoft's claim that the game is "a blend of both turn-based and real-time strategy games," it is really just a real-time game with a slight difference: the computer pauses the game automatically after you've accomplished certain tasks (e.g. digging up treasure). This misnomer notwithstanding, the game shines with originality and great gameplay. True to its purpose, you have to co-ordinate your team that comprises five types of units: the Fighter (best all-around unit), Trapper (good at digging for treasure and laying traps), Runner (best for returning a found treasure chest to your ship), Swordman (best fighter of the group), and the Scout (can see the farthest). Since you can only move one unit and do one thing at a time, planning is essential to winning the game.

The only thing about Treasure Island that will disappoint fans of Capture The Flag is that there is no multiplayer option. However, the game's tough AI more than makes up for this deficiency, as it does not cheat (e.g. is bestowed with the same starting resources) and is surprisingly good at adapting to your game plan just as a human being would. Much of the game's over three years in development was spent in perfecting the AI, and the results are truly impressive, especially at "Varsity" difficulty level and up. If you're a strategy fan, this game is a must-have.