Jagged Alliance 2: Wildfire

"Don't be afraid"

Overview:
It would be a lie to say anyone could pick up this game and play it. But if you're a JA2 fan, this is the challenge you've been waiting for. For anybody who could clear out map after map without breaking a sweat, this is your game.

Graphics:
It still runs off the old engine, so if you are considering this title for looks alone, forget it. There are basically no improvements to the basic program. However, most of the maps have been dressed up with extra obstacles and cover. The maps in Wildfire therefore look a lot different from those of the original JA2. Don't expect to be impressed, unless you haven't played a game since 1996.

Sounds:
All your favorite mercs are still there with all their adorable quotes (''I kiss my gun!'' and ''I don't carry it around just to look good, jackass!''). As an added bonus, most of the gun sounds have been updated. When you cap a soldier with a SPAS or an AK, it sounds a lot better. You KNOW that man is in pain!

Gameplay:
Again, all the original elements are there. Further, stealth plays a greater role, as does diplomacy. You can't barge into a sector at high noon and start shooting. You can't loot a town blind the moment you show up. If you have mercs running around like Rambo instead of lying prone behind rocks, they die. Clever strategies are rewarded and foolishness earns you a trip to the morgue.

Another big difference is the damage dealt by weapons. I've seen a shotgun blast to the head do 180 damage (out of 100). Forget calling 911 after that. Every gun packs a lot more punch. This makes teamwork and coordinated movement a lot more important.

Finally, enemy AI is much better than in the original. Even at lower difficulty levels, the enemy soldiers make clever use of darkness, terrain, and their beefed-up weapons. Be ready for a challenge!

Bugs:
With every PC game, you have to worry about bugs. Despite going through several versions, Wildfire has a few. The programmers are very quick to come out with patches (available at the official Wildfire forum) so you won't have to suffer for long.

The big picture:
If you want a game where you rush in and blow stuff up, this isn't it. If you are looking for a game where careful strategies pay off, go buy JA2: Wildfire. Even then, you will want to save very often. And for strangers to the series, don't worry! The game comes bundled with JA2. It's the perfect way to learn the ropes and hone your skills against relatively weak opponents. All in all, JA2: Wildfire is a challenging and rewarding game.

Reviewer's Score: 9/10, Originally Posted: 04/08/04