Gamersgate currently has Combat Mission Shock force on sale 50% off for $5
http://www.gamersgate.com/DD-CMSF/combat-mission-shock-force

This is the Paradox retail version that is upgradeable to the current recently patched Battlefront 1.32 version via the Battlefront $1 patch that also adds the license management (DRM):

CMSF Paradox to Battlefront version Patch $1

It is a few hoops to jump through but well worth the $6 for those out there who have been waiting on CMSF to drop down in price, I know this works because I recently went through this route at the regular $10 GamersGate price.

I bought it the other day from them using the Blue Coins I had saved up. Played for a couple of hours so far and it's an ok game. Better than I expected after hearing a lot of early horror stories from when the game originally came out.

Yeah same thing, I suck at it, but seems pretty decent especially after all the patches.

Also since it's my first Combat Mission game, I'm using it to decide if I will stay interested in this type of game, and if so I will eventually fork over $55 for CMBN...

the problem was just that the maps were to small for modern combat, fits better for WW2 combat.... and one thing Battlefront does with there own games is support them and patch them, but not games they don't make...ie: PT Boats...etc etc....

JMO

Yeah I can see how the map size would be tough for some of the modern technology realism, and I was pretty surprised how long they have kept up support for CMSF, makes the cost of CMBN seem more worth it than the typical games company.

this is true! I did not care at all for CMSF, but CM:B4N plays nicely and is more engaging (imho,ymmv)

One can also grab a used copy of CMSF through Amazon for $2 ($4 for new) and use the leftover $3 for a nice bottle of lager.
http://www.amazon.com/Combat-Mission-Shock-Force-Pc/dp/B000PWUZ2Q


edit. I never played PT boats but it did sound to be broken from your review of the game. I thought a Russian company made PT boats and BFC was the publisher? I know that BFC also initially published Dangerous Waters which is an excellent, if difficult to learn and master game (imho,ymmv).

Try some of GeorgMC's missions in the game and modules. "Armour Attacks" is one, "Panzer Angriff" is another, "Cry Havoc" is another which comes to mind. They set up both sides with mechanized infantry on huge maps with plenty of detail. I'm talking like 2500 meters by 2900 meters. You have room in these for some serious tactical maneuvering.

"British Mettle" is also very good and has a very large map. That one frustrated me to no end before I gave up on it.

I have not tried that one yet.

Thanks guys I will definitely give those a try once I get the hang.