Operation Flashpoint creator, Bohemia Interactive has announced the latest instalment in its acclaimed military simulator series, Arma 3 as a PC exclusive. Arma 3 will offer "radical engine improvements" and a "unique sandbox-style military gameplay experience," when it arrives in summer 2012, the developer promises. Set in the near future, after years of intense warfare against Eastern armies, Europe has become the last stand for the battered NATO forces, reads the story blurb. "On the verge of being driven into the sea, NATO command embarks upon a most desperate measure. In the hope of seizing what seems to be a well-guarded military secret, Operation Magnitude is launched. "A small group of Special Forces and Researchers are sent to a Mediterranean island deep behind enemy lines. However, the mission is compromised and the task force destroyed, leaving Cpt. Scott Miller washed ashore upon the hostile island. "In his effort to carry out the mission, he will face the dangers of modern warfare, an unforgiving environment, and the consequences of his own decisions..." Arma 3's key features include: Single-Player Campaign - Evolve from a lone prey into a military commander in the open-ended & story-driven campaign. Vehicles & Weapons - Control a multitude of aircraft, vehicles and ships with accurate simulation; shoot anything from pistols to sophisticated weapon platforms. Physical Simulation & Improved Animations - Take advantage of PhysX supported vehicle simulation, in-game interactions and the revamped animation system. Rich & Authentic Environment - Explore an unsurpassed military combat experience set on an authentic Mediterranean island modelled from real geographic data. Multiplayer Gameplay - Experience both cooperative & competitive scenarios with the full support of dedicated servers for both Windows and Linux. Completely Extensible & Moddable - Design & create countless customizable scenarios using the intuitive & easy-to-use mission editor. Customizable Soldier Load - Choose your uniform; assemble your weapon kit; change your load-out; get loaded up. Bohemia Interactives CEO, Marek Spanel, explained: ''We're happy to bring the next generation of the Real Virtuality engine to life. The increased potential of the engine should allow Arma 3 to become our best-looking, most detailed and innovative military simulation game to date.'' Ivan Buchta, Creative Director of Arma 3, added: ''Our ambition is not only to deliver the next generation of Arma with the improved engine, but also to fully exploit the potential of our new technology in the gameplay. You can look forward to the unique experience of blending sandbox-style combat with a rich story.''
