EA commences European Assault

Electronic Arts went once more into the breach today, with the announcement that it has shipped Medal of Honor: European Assault. The latest console chapter in the ongoing shooter series is rated T for Teen and retails for $39.99 for the Xbox, GameCube, and PlayStation 2. The game was previously subtitled "Dogs of War."

Like previous Medal of Honor games, European Assault takes place during the 20th century's biggest conflict, World War II. Featuring a story penned by Apocalypse Now screenwriter and Red Dawn director John Milius, the game follows the first field agent of the CIA's precursor, the OSS, as he fights the Nazis in 1942. Featuring such events as St. Nazaire, North Africa, Stalingrad, and the Battle of the Bulge, the game's authenticity was overseen by famed military film advisor Captain Dale Dye.

European Assault will feature several new gameplay additions, including large battlefields that allow for free-roaming action. Exploration of said levels will be key to fulfilling multiple objectives, including time-sensitive goals--some of which will reward players with tactical intelligence.

"The realistic WWII setting, the cinematic presentation, and the emotional storyline are still there, but we have thrown them wide open with new features, like the open battlefield that encourages players to use more 'duck and cover' gameplay; the adrenaline mode, which players can deploy under duress; and combat squad control, which allows players to control their squadmates with a simple press of the button," said executive producer Dan Winters.

GameSpot's previous coverage of Medal of Honor: European Assault has much more information on the game. A full review will be up soon.