What makes War in The Gulf very different from its predecessors is the greatly improved enemy AI. While certainly not cutting edge, the AI can spot holes in your strategies and tank formations and quickly take advantage. The computer will also insidiously hide large numbers of troops on the dirt tracks in the forests and jungles, waiting for the perfect moment to ambush you. This necessitates very thorough scouting and cautious planning – something that wasn't quite so involved in either Team Yankee or Pacific Islands.

Another feature new to the series is money, which adds an all-new dimension to planning. An essential part of War in the Gulf is raising funds through the destruction of enemy military installations, but any collateral damage results in deductions. The game therefore requires a sharp eye and quick thinking to stay on top of things. Sounds and graphics are not much different from the previous, although as mentioned earlier the orange tone makes it difficult to spot enemy tanks. The terrain is sparse, as you'd expect. Unit graphics, though, seem to be more sharply defined and better animated.

Overall, War in The Gulf is definitely the best game in the tank sim trilogy. Not as realistic as many would hope, but still a lot of fun, and the ability to switch your point of view to any one of four tanks at a time makes for some exciting moments... especially when you realize you've been ambushed. Recommended for fans of tank simulations and military action games, but be warned of a VERY difficult last mission which I've never been able to complete.