Operation Flashpoint: A Cold-War crisis.

• Author: Silbergeld, David LL.
• Position: Digital Marketplace

What war gamers need is a perfect balance between realism, war-gaming expertise and geopolitics. It's here now, in the form of a challenging, tactical military action sim called "Operation Flashpoint."

Players are introduced to a 1985, Cold-War scenario, where a new Soviet regime seizes control of an island community. Underground resistance groups have mobilized in opposition. The new Soviet government, unable to defeat the resistance, calls upon NATO for peacekeeping forces to help restore order to the region.

It's potentially got everything. And you--a U.S. or NATO private, on a training mission with your squad--are smack in the middle of it.

The sim has three main components: (1) a single-mission mode, with more than 50 choices; (2) a campaign element, and (3) a multi-player selection, with space for 16 players.

The single-mission mode allows you to execute missions found in the campaign component, such as sniper raids, squad assaults on a town, possibly including vehicles in the attack.

The campaign version incorporates all elements of the single-mission mode, weaving them into a cinematic story line that runs from a private in training camp to a battle-worn commander, somewhat similar to the story line in the HBO series, "Band of Brothers.

Multi-player enables all players to utilize the total skills compiled in previous modes and apply them to real-war scenarios in player-vs.-player Internet combat.

You can create your own missions, with customized depth and complexity, using the integrated mission editor. Utilize modern weaponry, such as M-16A2 and AK-47 assault rifles, plus a wide variety of vehicles, including tanks, trucks, choppers and more. From Abrams ranks to Cobra helicopters, details are great and accompanied by realistic sound effects. UH-60 helicopters and Scud launchers have been added to broaden your tactical options.

Add to this lighting conditions and weather alternatives to increase the complexity of the scenario. There are even accurate star constellations for navigation. Do we still teach troops how to locate the North Star, or are we totally dependent on global positioning systems? For new missions, new vehicles, game updates and more, check out www.codemastersusa.com/flashpoint.

Recommended system requirements: Windows 95/98/ME/2000, DirectX 8, Pentium II 600 MHz CPU or better, 128 MB RAM, 16-bit Direct Sound Compliant sound card, compatible 3D graphics card with 32 MB RAM, 24X+ CD-ROM, 40 MB HD space.

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