Platform: Xbox/PC

Genre: Action

Publisher: THQ

Developer: Pandemic

ETA: Q1 2004

Related Links:

Review: Ghost Recon (PC)

Review: SOCOM US Navy Seals (PS2)

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Full Spectrum Warrior

Voted the best simulation game at E3 2003, Full Spectrum Warrior (FSW) is still a relative unknown to many gamers. The game, being developed by Pandemic Studios, will attempt to transform the face of squad-based combat; in order to create the most thoroughly produced execution of soldiers.

FSW is completely different then any other squad-based game ever created. At first glance, the game looks akin to Ghost Recon or Rainbow Six, but gameplay wise plays a lot similar to an RTS (Real-time Strategy). The game will be played in the 3^rd-person and does not allow the player to control any of the units. Instead, the player takes command, as one would in an RTS, commanding the soldiers to move and fire based upon a point and click system known as “fire orders”.

Each member of the squad performs as a real soldier would, covering the commander in the heat of battle, laying down when grenades are thrown towards the squad, and issuing hand signals to fellow soldiers. Though not actually controlling any of the team members, you control every other aspect. Simply by pointing and pressing a button, the team reacts immediately. Since the game is based on a series of pointing and pressing buttons, it’s up to the player to make sure all soldiers are protected, by issuing the best move.

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Despite the fact that the new system of gameplay may be the most impressive feature, the graphics push the realism further. Fighting through urban streets requires the use of shadows, walls, cars, buildings, and anything else needed in order to be protected. FSW showcases beautiful shadows and even more striking particle effects from splinters of cars to blood decals. When all of these pieces work together, it’s hard to differentiate between watching an actual battle on TV, or a video game. FSW forcefully drives realism to an all new level, making it the finest looking squad-based game ever seen.

Full Spectrum Warrior is set out to be released early in 2004 to the Xbox console, and then later released on the PC.

Features:

Groundbreaking new gameplay: Squad-based tactical action lets you move between two fire teams through simple, intuitive interface.
The most intelligent squad AI ever created: Full Spectrum Warrior accurately simulates the actions and reactions of soldiers in intense combat environment.
Authentic implementation of U.S. Army doctrine as taught to the Infantry
Multiple environments with varying conditions that affect squad effectiveness and tactics.
Rules of Engagement simulate real-world conditions and alter the difficulty level.
Squad equipment reflects real weaponry and equipment currently in use by the U.S. Army.
Realistic animations for squad members: Motions for soldiers were modeled after a combat veteran who is also an active-duty Sergeant in the U.S. Army Rangers.
Xbox Live support

Eric Lahiji

July 9, 2003