In the October 1981 edition of "The Space Gamer" (Issue No. 44), Jon Tindel agreed that the rules were complex and extensive, but thought that the investment of time to learn them was worth it: "It has been said that "C&S" is unplayable, that it is better as a work of reference, but that is emphatically untrue. I know many people who play "C&S" and enjoy the game very much [...] It all comes down to one question: are you willing to spend the time to learn the complicated rules? If you are, by all means buy "C&S"; your reward will be many hours of joy. If you are not, stay away, it is not for you."