Are you armchair general? Do you watch the History Channel hoping to glean some insight from Patton or Napoleon? Do you sit on the beach imagining the way your virtual forces would invade it, looking for tactical weakness while the children play happily amidst the sand and waves? If so, let me know so I sit away from you on the bus. I’m just kidding, a little bit at least. For those of us with a mind to command, video games offer a wide variety of titles and styles to sample and dominate. Whether you’d prefer to storm the beaches of Normandy, turn outer space into a battle ground, or simply rule the world, you’re going to find something here to satisfy you. Better yet, with so many great games out there, finding affordable ones generally isn’t a problem. This week’s Bargain Bin takes some time to highlight a few of the best ones.

Panzer Tactics DS (DS)

The DS has been a great system for turn-based strategy games, and while I could easily -- and have before -- recommend the DS versions of the Age of Empires games, I’m going to take some time to discuss Panzer Tactics DS. Panzer Tactics is a bit pricier than my usual fair, especially for a DS game. I usually try to keep my selections around the twenty dollar range, and this one is almost pushing thirty. That said, I’m not at all exaggerating that if you are a fan of this style of gaming and are looking for a truly challenging experience, Panzer Tactics is absolutely, completely worth the extra few dollars.

Panzer Tactics is easily one of the most complex games on the DS, giving you control of a massive amount of unique and authentic WWII units. You have infantry, planes, tanks, and everything in between to play with here, and moreover, so does your enemy, which is easily the most intelligent and unforgiving I’ve ever come up against in a turn-based strategy game. It pulls absolutely no punches, and will fight you like a cornered dog for every inch of ground. You can never just charge in, guns blazing. There are always outside elements to pay attention to. How strong is my tank compared to his? How many core units have I already lost (replacements are hard to come by and losing too many will cost you the mission)? Do I have enough supplies to stage an assault? The game is absolutely addictive and enthralling.

It isn’t without flaws though. Replay value is sadly limited. You can redo any campaign mission you want, but the game unfortunately lacks any option to play out randomized or player made levels. Furthermore, the wireless multiplayer is rather weak. Essentially once you’ve beaten this game, that’s it. That said, while it lasts it is a brilliant ride and it will last you awhile. I literally spent an entire week at one point just trying to complete one of the mid-level difficulty missions. If only through sheer challenge, it will last you.

Amazon (Note: Used Amazon.com prices are subject to change)

New - $26.79

Used - $26.78