The 260MB Strike Force weights take awhile to install. That's assuming you have UT installed and updated to version 4.36 and you got the mod on a CD. However, if you need to download the mod, install UT and update it, it's a good wait before experiencing some action.

After the somewhat long process of installation , finaly we're ready to play.

One thing that stands out is the huge amount of work taken to create new textures from scratch, new weapons, new music, models, IA, the interface.

The UT engine still kicks ass. Strike Force takes advantage of it, combining the new textures with a great level design and presenting us with almost 50 maps of architectonic delight and pure diversion.

I was particularly (well) surprised with a map intitled "Portugal" (and forgive me the personal note, it's my country), with such level design and textures that instantly took me (and still does) to the North of Portugal. Notice also a delicious "Trancado" sign (portuguese for "locked") on the doors. It's good to feel at home.

The variety of levels sticked me to the computer in the urge of exploring them all. From and Embassador's House to an Oil Rig, we find almost about every possible Strike Force Vs Terrorists scenario.

The gameplay is what attracts the most. A new feature - the pulse indicator - gives a major turn over in gameplay comparing to UT. When jumping, running, beeing shot at, the heart beat rises, taking the pulse up, and with that reducing agility and shot precision. Also, when gearing up at the beginning of each mission, make sure not to be overloaded cause, like in real life, you wouldn't be able to run like "Flash".

The crosshair disappeared. It takes awhile to get used to it, but it's definetly a plus to the sence of reality. Press the secondary fire and you get a small dot in the screen that works like the crosshair and helps those that are having problems getting used to it's absence.

Besides the tutorial, the game modes include Deathmatch, Team Deathmatch, Hostage Rescue and Escape.

A note goes to some bugs in the bots script, where there are some problems with the pathfinding.

With no doubt the real fun takes place in Multiplayer. It's always more exciting to face real opponents. The great gameplay combined with real players makes multiplayer a thrilling experience.

Strike Force 1.60 is one of the best mods out there and delivers high expectations into future versions. Xtreme Gaming is definetly one team to keep an eye on.

Useful links:

http://www.strikeforcecenter.com

Thundra
thundra@gamesurge.com