Which game do I buy?

[le Anders]

I'm considering buying "Wars in America II", "American Civil War", or "Napoleon's Campaigns".
Which of these has the biggest MP-community? And which one is considered "bestest" of them?
I enjoy RUS tremendously, so I'm hoping for somethign like that game.

[Durk]

It probably depends upon why you like RUS.
If for the leadership, unit organization and supply, then American Civil War is the closest match.
If for the open movement and variable play, then Wars in America might be the match.
I enjoy Napoleon's Campaigns, but with week long turns and no Grand Campaign game, it is best for those with a desire to examine each campaign.
The largest part of the community plays ACW, but there are players for all games in the forum. Most players are game-o-dexous. They play all AGEOD games.
I am not sure if you own Rise of Prussia or if it was simply not on your list. It is really most like RUS. Prussia in a central position surrounded by hostile nations. It needs to use its superior movement and leadership to work its way out of a serious strategic crisis to a winning hand. Hmm, that does not sound like the Red side at all; where its poor leaders make it work really hard to gain a victory.
You will make a great choice whichever you select.
I am a WIA mega-fan, but I enjoy all.

[Gen. Monkey-Bear]

I recommend American Civil War. It is great for the reasons stated above, and it appears to have the largest following globally, so more opportunities for PBEM.

[le Anders]

I went with ACW. Going through the tutorial now. The difficulty with the AGE-games, for me at least, is the different way the controls are handled, like unit construction and reinforcements.
I like RUS because of the semi-modern units and the historical context, which to me is much more interesting than the ACW. Also, RUS has the better graphics of the AGE-games IMO.
Already have RoP, and it's fun, but difficult. Losing quite badly in my first MP game.

[Durk]

ACW is a great choice. It has the most mysterious unit construction and reinforcement interface of all the Ageod games. ACW veterans, please do not dump on this comment.
Most confusing, the Economics Option screen in the ledger. It looks like you need to build some factories. Not true. All the construction is outside this screen. You can use this screen in odd situations, but as a new player, ignore it.
Chance some inflation, but mostly try to maximize recruitment.
That said, it is a great game and will feel a lot like RUS. The naval component of the game is unique to ACW. Nice historical recreation, but requires time and experience.
ROP is a fun but tough game. Best play is harder to decide than it is in RUS because of the very different force qualities. Still, it is a wonderful play.