I review these two books as a group because they are really companion volumes. The North and South are essential elements in the world of Heavy Gear and to compare their Gears and Striders side by side makes more sense.

When I saw these books I was reluctant to shell out the money, being new to Heavy Gear. But a quick peek inside persuaded me. These book are a compilation of the earlier field guides, which are now out of print. As the publishers state on the opening page (as they seem to with all their supplements) they give a reason as to why and how they wrote the book. Not only does this give us insight but it also gives the readers a bit of credit. Dream Pod 9 know that we would like to see what goes into a game and aren't afraid to tell us.

Their is a brief intro explaining the use of symbols to indicate the role that the Gears take in combat (Scout, Assault etc) and the terrain types that they are suited to (Desert, Jungle etc.). After a brief explanation of the purpose of the book they launch into the meat of it, which is presented like a special publication: The Fort William Military Review Guide. A history of gear development and important people is a nice change from a book of pure stats. It tells the story of the invention of the Hunter, and the corresponding theft of a prototype by the South to develop their Jager gear. They also discuss the general direction of development for the North and South.

In accordance with the aims of the author each gear chassis has a reason for development and the logic behind it, they aren't just a bunch of numbers. The variants (and there are a lot) are presented as a list of modifications, but they also have a story behind each of them. There are also prototype gears and striders and a summary at the back of weapons and a comparative chart of gear tables. An added bonus is the resources section at the back which includes two common installations (one in each book). There is also an explanation of the identification codes used ( ever wondered what HACS means? Humanoid Armoured Combat System! There you go!) and a summary of camoflage schemes for interest or if you are a minatures gamer (you can see them in colour at www.dp9.com) and new perks and flaws.

Between the two books there are around 150 different gears and striders (including the variants) more than enough for even the keenest gamer. This could be classed more as a supplement for the tactical side of the game but if you run integrated campaigns it will be of great use too. The book is laid out clearly with an illustration of every gear variant. The technical drawings are the usual excellent standard and the other illustrations are very good as well.

The book could be a little heavy going for most, unless you really care about every gear it is best used as a reference volume, but if you have the time, reading all the descriptions will give you valuable insight into the military world on Terra Nova. If you are running a tactical games, this is a must, unless you prefer the raw statistics that are presented in the record sheet books. For anyone running a role-playing game that uses military, police or anything similar these are also fantastic books. If you run a dedicated North or South campaign, you could get away with buying just one.

Dream Pod 9 have again turned out an excellent product that provides a great deal of information to players and GMs alike. For the enthusiast of Heavy Gear or the military style campaign, buy these books, they are an invaluable resource.

Style: 4 (Classy and well done)
Substance: 5 (Excellent!)