America's Army: Special Forces Overmatch Preview

There will be two new expansions released within the next few months, version 2.1 and version 2.2 (Overmatch).  The first expansion will include two new maps with additional maps possible within a few weeks after the release.  The version 2.1 release is scheduled for release in June.  The next version, Overmatch, will be the biggest upgrade to the America’s Army core engine.  The new version was the version shown behind closed doors at E3.   

The developers did advise us that this version is still early and the demo was missing several features that will be included in the final version.  The biggest difference noticeable was the graphic overhaul in the game.  The graphics in this version were much more detailed with better textures and effects included in the engine.  The developers showed off a sun flare effect that looked great.  They even mentioned that the sun flare effect could be used as a tactical advantage since your opponent won’t be able to see you while looking at the sun flare. 

Another big update is the inclusion of a new physics detection system within the game.  The game will have the rag doll effect that you see so common in new first person shooters.  So when you shoot the enemy the character will fall down with their own unique animation.  Some new weapons were displayed as well.  The first one was a door buster, which acts like a remote control bomb that can be attached to a door to blow it open.  Another new weapon was a proximity detector, which is similar to a land mine.  When someone steps on one of the detectors the weapon fires by launching a small explosive projectile in the air.  One of the last new features was the inclusion of vehicles that you will be able to use.  

As with the original games’ release and expansions the developers have the full cooperation from the US Army.  If they want to investigate a special weapon that the military uses, they have full access.  They have access to thousands of experts because they can ask soldiers and experts within the military for advice.  But for gamers the biggest feature is the cost which is zero.  The regular game is currently available from the America’s Army’s website.  All future versions will be available for free from the website as well.  You’re not alone if you’ve downloaded the game from the site, since there are a total of 3.5 million registered users for the game.  America’s Army is becoming one of the largest games available right now and the Overmatch expansion could draw even more players.