DESCRIPTION

With Hammer & Sickle, the makers of Silent Storm deploy another round of militarily themed, historically inspired, turn-based tactics for hardcore PC gamers. Instead of an Allied or Axis soldier, as in the earlier game's World War II setting, Hammer & Sickle players take the role of an undercover Russian operative at the start of the Cold War. The hero suspects a plot that would lead the U.S. and the U.S.S.R. to nuclear war, but much remains a mystery. By progressing through a series of secretive missions, player characters can gain the materials and support they'll need to uncover the truth.

As in Silent Storm, missions take place on detailed 3D maps which can be viewed from nearly any perspective or proximity. Most areas can be explored in real-time, but the game switches to a turn-based mode when fighting breaks out. In battle, each character's possible actions are governed by a system of points, so it takes longer to sneak about or discharge a grenade launcher than it does to run away or fire a pistol. As players progress through the game's story, their customizable character develops better skills and new abilities, and can recruit a squad of controllable commandos to help in the cause. ~ T.J. Deci, All Game Guide