

Multiple options are available that allow you to customize your game. Gameplay is non-linear with real-time exploration and turn-based combat. No less than 150 in-game characters communicate with you and your squads, utilizing more than 10,000 digitized lines of speech as the missions unfold. You'll need to use the available human resources as well - treat the locals nice and they may just help you in any number of ways (information, money, warnings, etc.). Resources can be found in the secret mines of the region, mines you'll have to ferret out, then take by force and exploit to finance your squads that can range up to 18 individuals for any given mission. Diplomacy, sheer guts, determination, tactical planning, the ability to select wisely those mercs needed for each mission and economic concerns (ammunition, bribes, salaries, weapons, equipment, etc.) are just some of the aspects you'll need to master. There are many roads to victory and you'll have to travel most, if not all, of them. In Jagged Alliance 2, you'll be required to mix equal parts of role-playing, strategy and combat to reach your main objective. Morale, training and individual energy levels also enter the mix. Attributes are measured on a scale of zero to 100 and include a sliding pay scale commensurate with experience gained, health, agility, dexterity, strength, wisdom and leadership.

Individual characteristics include initial fees demanded by each merc, skills (medical, explosives, mechanical, marksmanship and experience) and attitudes (which can change during the course of the game). Mercenaries in the game improve with success in typical RPG fashion. It'll be your responsibility to pick the right soldiers for the right job, keeping them inspired, providing sufficient ammunition and, most importantly, ensuring that paydays are never missed - after all, they're not fighting for the glory of it - they're mercenaries, just like you! You can even create your own merc with characteristics ranging from attitude to expertise. You'll need to recruit specific squads of mercenaries from a pool of 70, each selected for his or her specific skills and attributes, from the rolls of the Association of International Mercenaries (A.I.M.). And he really doesn't care how you do it, as long as you get it done! The decisions, planning and strategy that permeate a successful operation are entirely up to you! So, you wanted your own private war? What's that? You want to be paid for it too? Well, merc, your wishes are about to come true! Your renowned skills have landed you the job of winning back the country of Arulco for deposed ruler Enrico Chivaldori.
