The burgeoning roster of PC-based tactical shooters grows by one with the release of this latest sequel from Illusion Softworks. As its title suggests, a blend of both stealth and firepower is the concept throughout, as players lead a small squad of soldiers behind enemy lines, to carry out secret missions during World War II.

Taking place across European, African and Asian continents and reflecting on the theatres of war in which the SAS operated, Hidden & Dangerous 2 casts players into ... more >>

The burgeoning roster of PC-based tactical shooters grows by one with the release of this latest sequel from Illusion Softworks. As its title suggests, a blend of both stealth and firepower is the concept throughout, as players lead a small squad of soldiers behind enemy lines, to carry out secret missions during World War II.

Taking place across European, African and Asian continents and reflecting on the theatres of war in which the SAS operated, Hidden & Dangerous 2 casts players into the ranks of the renowned elite force, as they battle the armed forces of Hitler, Mussolini and the Japanese Empire. There are more than 20 missions to undertake, ranging from the isolated Arctic winter, through the dense jungles of South East Asia, to the Libyan Desert.

As you would expect, a bountiful inventory of authentic weaponry is at your disposal - you can kit your squad out with a variety of pistols, sniper rifles, grenades and bazookas. There's also an array of commandable vehicles throughout, including trucks, tanks, motorcycles, and planes.

Fully interactive environments play host to the action throughout H&D2, each populated by intelligent and responsive AI. As such, along the way you encounter a wide range of opposition, from inept and drowsy guards, to highly efficient and quick off the mark German Battalions.

Contrary to the norm, the game can be played out from both first and third person viewpoints, giving you more scope on the ensuing action. A la Splinter Cell, the latter is handy for the stealthy sections, where as a switch to first person mode can be particularly useful when battle hots up.

With the customary support for LAN/Internet gaming, allowing for all the usual multiplayer deathmatches, team battles and such, Hidden & Dangerous 2 has plenty going for it, adding another involving war sim to an already healthy roster of PC games.
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