The latest title in the famous Combat Mission franchise of wargames, now on Steam. Shock Force 2 brings you to a hypothetical conflict in Syria between the forces of NATO and the Syrian Army. Play either on WeGo or Real Time in an incredibly detailed and realistic 1:1 tactical simulation.
Players laud the game's exceptional level of tactical realism, which provides an authentic 1:1 simulation of modern warfare. The developers meticulously model the behavior and capabilities of individual soldiers, vehicles, and weapons, forcing players to contend with a wide array of factors, from terrain and weather to morale, leadership, and the psychological state of their units. This granular attention to detail allows the game to capture the true complexity and unpredictability of the modern battlefield.
One of the game's standout features is its innovative "WEGO" hybrid turn-based system. Here, players plan 60 seconds of commands for their forces, then watch as those orders are executed simultaneously by both sides. This unique blend of real-time and turn-based gameplay requires careful coordination and deliberate decision-making, as players must anticipate their opponent's moves and react accordingly. The ability to rewind and review previous turns, as well as engage in email-based multiplayer, further enhances the strategic depth.
Effectively integrating a diverse array of units, from infantry and armor to artillery and air support, is crucial to victory. Players must leverage the unique strengths and capabilities of each unit type, understanding how they interact on the battlefield. This encourages meticulous tactical planning and coordination, as they maneuver their forces and support them with the appropriate assets.
The game's sophisticated system of relative spotting and fog of war adds an intense element of uncertainty and tension. Each soldier has their own unique view of the battlefield, meaning that units do not automatically share information about spotted enemies. Players must actively manage reconnaissance and information gathering to maintain situational awareness, often making decisions with incomplete information.
The deep simulation of individual soldier behavior and the interplay of various factors on the battlefield result in a high degree of emergent gameplay and unpredictability. No two battles are alike, as the actions and reactions of units can lead to unexpected outcomes and unfolding scenarios. This encourages players to think quickly and adapt their tactics and strategies on the fly, rewarding those who can thrive in the face of constantly changing circumstances.