Screenshots of MGM Interactive's long-time-coming 3D action/strategy title for the Sony PlayStation, Return Fire II (the sequel to Return Fire, which appeared on the 3DO, PlayStation, Saturn, and PC), recently reared its head around the videogames.com offices.

　　Basically capture-the-flag with high-end ammo, RFII is being developed under the tutelage of the original creator, Baron R.K. Von Wolfsheild, whose team has reportedly stepped up the graphics, multiplayer capabilities, combat interaction, enemy AI, perspective, and the level of strategy needed to beat the game. In single- or multiplayer mode, players battle from a behind-the-vehicle or behind-the-wheel perspective, creating, perhaps, a more immersive playing field experience.

　　Pitted against intelligent opponents (who are notably more intelligent this time around), gamers are equipped with a stockpile of vehicles, such as helicopters, PT boats, and jump jets that are launched from an aircraft carrier, tanks, and four-wheel drives. These transports handle differently in each environment, from city streets and jungles to deserts and the arctic. Active weather conditions and landscape features, such as mountain ranges and bodies of water, also influence the controllability of vehicles and availability of access to enemy troops.

　　RFII also includes more missions than the original, analog control, new vehicle designs, and enhanced gameplay, as jet fighters this time can engage in dogfights. RFII is expected on the Sony PlayStation and Windows 95 in the third quarter of 98. And while both are single- and multiplayer capable, two to four PC gamers can fight via modem over a LAN, and up to 16 can battle simultaneously on the Net.