Great tactical action in a totally different type of game
The game has great atmosphere as far as background, environment and the feeling of being in a Middle East country. Some of the levels are just fantastic in their look. I like the Palace level and the Airport level. The Palace has intricate looking buildings with depth and height. Watch out for snipers! The Airport is broad and spread out as you can imagine. You sure could use a Jeep or Humvee or something to get around in. But no we’re an infantry squad so hoof it.
The sound is one of the best I’ve heard in a video game. It’s really something to see and hear when you order your squad to suppress an enemy. The rifles, RPG’s, grenades, vehicles all sound great. It makes great use of a 5.1 surround sound system. Even the sound of the soldiers running is realistic. You can even hear the equipment on their equipment belts!
Keep in mind this is not a shooter in the strictest sense. It’s more of a squad based strategy game. It is not a fast paced game either. You have to put a little thought into what you’re doing. That’s one reason I like it.
One thing that slows the game down is when one of your men gets hit you have to carry him back to the CASEVAC for medical treatment. It’s realistic, but it does slow down the action.
I really enjoyed this game. I looked forward to it from the first time I saw screens of it and I was not disappointed. It’s so satisfying when you flank an OPFOR (opposing force), give your squad a fire sector, and they take him out.
The follow up, Full Spectrum Warrior: Ten Hammers will be out by the end of the month, and it will be in my collection.