The graphics skimp on the brutality of the war, by not showing any blood or dismembered bodies. Historically, this is not accurate, but we'd rather than not remember the ugliness of war anyway, so this is excusable. Sound should adhere to historical conditions. It's not originality of sound, but arrangment that counts. The voice acting of the generals portray strong leaders with a sense of mission.
Sound effects mimic the dull thud of a cannon and the crackling of the muskets.
Real weapons are truly unremarkable in sound effects unlike the Hollywood synthesized sound and that's the way it's done with SM Gettysburg. Music is historically based. I play for the North, and the Battle Hymn of the Republic makes me feel like I'm truly fighting for a noble cause. Admittedly Dixie is good, but I typically receive this after being trounced off the hill by the rebs. Much of the other music is used during battle to accentuate troop movement and to give the user a clue as to the enemies formation moves.