Summary

Release Year: 1999
Genres: Adventure, Shooter, Strategy, Tactical
Platforms: Dreamcast, PC (Microsoft Windows), PlayStation
Developers: Illusion Softworks, Tarantula Studios
Publishers: Gathering of Developers, Global Star Software, Take-Two Interactive, TalonSoft

Hidden & Dangerous: A Thrilling World War II Tactics Game

Released in 1999, Hidden & Dangerous is a groundbreaking tactical shooter game that immerses players in the perilous world of covert operations during World War II. Developed by Illusion Softworks and published by Take-Two Interactive, the game has garnered critical acclaim for its innovative gameplay, realistic graphics, and gripping storyline.

Gameplay

Hidden & Dangerous puts players in command of a four-man squad of Allied commandos, each with their own unique skills and abilities. The game features a unique blend of first-person shooter (FPS) and real-time tactics (RTT) gameplay. Players can directly control one soldier in FPS mode, while issuing commands to the rest of the squad in RTT mode. This allows for a wide range of tactical possibilities, as players must carefully coordinate their squad’s actions to complete missions successfully.

The game’s campaign is divided into several episodes, each of which is set in a different location during World War II. Missions vary greatly in objective, from stealthy infiltration and sabotage to explosive demolitions and hostage rescue. Players must carefully plan their approach to each mission, taking into account the enemy’s strength, the terrain, and the available resources.

In addition to infantry combat, Hidden & Dangerous also features a variety of vehicles that players can drive, including tanks, jeeps, and motorcycles. This adds an extra layer of complexity and realism to the gameplay, as players must master both the art of close-quarters combat and the operation of military vehicles.

Graphics and Sound

For its time, Hidden & Dangerous boasted impressive graphics that brought the battlefields of World War II to life. The game’s environments are detailed and immersive, with realistic textures and lighting effects. The character models are also well-animated, and the game’s physics engine allows for realistic ragdoll effects.

The game’s sound design is equally impressive, with realistic weapon sounds, explosions, and ambient noises. The voice acting is also top-notch, with each character delivering their lines with conviction and emotion.

Story

Hidden & Dangerous tells the story of a group of Allied commandos who are tasked with carrying out a series of high-risk missions behind enemy lines. The game’s plot is well-written and engaging, with plenty of twists and turns to keep players on the edge of their seats. The characters are also well-developed and relatable, and players will quickly find themselves invested in their survival.

Reception

Hidden & Dangerous was a critical and commercial success upon its release. The game was praised for its innovative gameplay, realistic graphics, and gripping storyline. It won numerous awards, including Game of the Year from PC Gamer and Computer Gaming World.

The game has also been praised for its historical accuracy. The developers worked closely with military historians to ensure that the game’s weapons, vehicles, and tactics were as realistic as possible. This attention to detail has made Hidden & Dangerous a valuable tool for teaching about World War II history.

Legacy

Hidden & Dangerous has had a lasting impact on the video game industry. It is considered to be one of the pioneers of the tactical shooter genre, and its influence can be seen in many modern games, such as Rainbow Six and Ghost Recon. The game has also been praised for its realistic graphics and sound design, which set a new standard for World War II games.

Hidden & Dangerous remains a popular game today, and it is still enjoyed by many fans around the world. The game’s innovative gameplay, realistic graphics, and gripping storyline make it a timeless classic that is sure to entertain and engage players for years to come.

Conclusion

Hidden & Dangerous is a truly groundbreaking tactical shooter game that offers a unique and immersive World War II experience. With its innovative gameplay, realistic graphics, and gripping storyline, the game has earned its place as a classic of the genre. Whether you’re a fan of tactical shooters, World War II history, or simply great storytelling, Hidden & Dangerous is a game that you won’t want to miss.