GRAW 2 PC trailer, dev interview

via Computer and Video Games


PC GRAW fans have had to twiddle thumbs for a few extra months and put up with a delay for the sequel, but GRAW 2 is creeping ever closer to its late June release. In the meantime though, enjoy a new trailer that's deployed from Ubisoft HQ. It runs for around two minutes and is end-to-end in-game action.

In addition to sending out this new footage, the publisher's filled our in-box with a GRAW 2 interview where Bo Andersson, CEO of the PC sequel's developer GRIN, answers questions put forward by the GRAW community. The interview covers all the basics and is worth reading as a refresher or if you're a GRAW 2 virgin. Over to Bo...


I heard GRAW2 X360 is already out, what are the differences with the PC version?

Bo Andersson: Two different teams are working on the games. The entire PC version is being developed by GRIN, with the objective to create the tactical shooter reference on the platform. In terms of game design, technology and controls, the games go in different directions, but share the Ghost Recon background (high-tech gear, accuracy...) and the storyline.

Regarding the maps, multiplayer modes and single-player feel, it's totally worth it to play both games, as each gets the most out of its respective platform. Think about reading two books relating to the same events: two different visions of the same scene.

What's the storyline behind GRAW2?
Bo Andersson: The action in GRAW2 takes place shortly after the events in GRAW and revolves around the US border. Following the events in Mexico City, the Ghosts leave the country after saving the US and Mexican presidents. Soon after, while they are training in Fort Bliss in Texas, they are called back to Mexico.

The remaining Mexican rebels have gathered their forces alongside the US border. Ciudad Juarez, which is one of the key strongholds of the rebels, is separated from El Paso Texas only by the newly constructed wall on the US / Mexican border. Mexican rebels threaten to strike on US soil if the Americans interfere again on what they qualify as an internal conflict.

I spend most of my playing time on PC on multiplayer games, what does GRAW2 offer?

Bo Andersson: We tried to create with GRAW2 on PC an extensive multiplayer experience, with a huge variety of maps and modes.

First of all, the Recon versus Assault mode is totally exclusive. The high tech Ghost team is fighting against heavily armed Mexican rebels. In this mode, the Ghosts need to clear the anti-air defence of the zone in order to launch air strikes. Thus the Rebels try to take the Ghosts down. This mode demonstrates the essence of the Ghost Recon games: stealth and technology, against brute force and firepower.

Moreover, GRAW2 includes the classic Ghost Recon MP modes, like the cooperative campaign (up to 4 players can play the single player campaign together) and the Original Ghost Recon coop mode: short missions with a single objective in cooperation with up to 12 players.

Finally, we wanted the PC players to find their favourite modes in the game: Death Match, Siege, Team Deathmatch and Hamburger Hill. This makes a comprehensive package, with 9 multiplayer maps to play on.

Will the game have dedicated servers?
Bo Andersson: Yes, the game will have dedicated servers at release. We're currently testing them with the Closed Beta, and have European and US servers.

Is there a standalone dedicated server application to create my own server?

Bo Andersson: Yes, there is. You can install it on any PC (no need to have the CD in the drive, no powerful GPU needed). It includes admin tools and remote control.

Will there be a multiplayer demo?

Bo Andersson: Yes, this will be detailed in a separate announcement!

Will there be an anti-cheat system?

Bo Andersson: Yes, this is a GRIN developed tool.

Will the game allow in game voice communication?

Bo Andersson: Yes, through Teamspeak services.

Will the game have online leaderboards?

Bo Andersson: Yes, we will have ladders, including clan ladders, using Gamespy services.

I HATE checkpoints, will there be again automatic savepoints?

Bo Andersson: Yes, there will. But you'll also be able to save anywhere, as long as you're not in a fight.