-<>--<>--<>--<>--<>--<>--<>--<>--<>--<>--<>--<>--<>--<>--<>--<>--<>- __ ___ _ ## \ \ / (_) ___| |_ ___ ___ _ __ __ _ #22# \ \ / /| |/ _ \ __/ __/ _ \| '_ \ / _` | 2 \ V / | | __/ || (_| (_) | | | | (_| | 2 \_/ |_|\___|\__\___\___/|_| |_|\__, | 2 |___/ 2222 Demo FAQ >>==<<==>>==<<==>>==<<==>>==<<==>>==<<==>>==<<==>>==<<==>>==<<==>>== For PC Version Final By Chris Zawada User: antseezee E-mail: chris@z-wad.com Website: www.z-wad.com Created: 09/24/05 Last Update: 03/10/11 Copyright 2011 Chris Zawada -<>--<>--<>--<>--<>--<>--<>--<>--<>--<>--<>--<>--<>--<>--<>--<>--<>- Author's Note ---------------------------- Over the past few years, we've seen a huge increase in the amount of Vietnam War-based shooters across the PC/console gaming markets. Whether the games feature hundreds of limbs flying around due to friendly artillery strikes, or attempt to recreate a realistic/historical scenario, many of them were above average to fairly good. One popular shooter that rose out of the 2003-2004 era was Vietcong, a game that based itself strictly around realism, while employing some nifty tactics. Thankfully, Pterodon (developers of Vietcong), have been working on a sequel to their 03' classic, which is suppose to feature better multiplayer, a more interactive environment, and improved graphics. This guide will lead you through the recently released official multiplayer demo. Will you accept the pain from the butt of your rifle recoiling into your shoulder, or end your suffering with a hand grenade? Contributing/Feedback ---------------------------- If you have any contributions, feedback, or strategies you'd like to have added to the guide, contact me via e-mail or on GameFAQs. I'll be more than content to add your segment of information, and will also provide credit. If you have any questions you'd like added to the Common Questions section, ask. I simply don't have the time to sit around thinking of questions. Provide me with what you want to know! Updates ---------------------------- =03/10/11= vFinal Final update. =09/25/05= v1.0 Finished the FAQ. Demo was fun for the most part, but I couldn't see this game lasting if I bought the full version. There are a ton of weapons available in the demo version, which shocked me. =09/24/05= v1.0 Started the FAQ. Since the multiplayer demo really only has two maps, and a limited amount of classes, I'll try to keep this FAQ brief. The game is fairly fun though despite its shortcomings. ============================ - Table of Contents - ============================ 1) Introduction 2) Basics > Setting it Up > Game Modes > Controls 3) Classes > Description of each w/ ratings 4) Weapons > Description of each w/ ratings 5) Maps > Tips 6) Common Questions 7) Copyright/Distribution/Reproduction Guidelines 8) Proper Credits -<>--<>--<>--<>--<>--<>--<>--<>--<>--<>--<>--<>--<>--<>--<>--<>--<>- ============================ - 1) Introduction - ============================ Vietcong 2 is an upcoming realism-based first person shooter via a developer called Pterodon. Their first production, Vietcong, turned out to be a moderate success, that eventually spawned out to various consoles (and even an expansion pack). The Vietcong series has mainly been about the Tet Offensive, allowing you to play both sides of the ferocious conflict known as the Vietnam War. You'll traverse across various maps (both jungle & urban), each with scripted events, and a multiplayer mode that allows you to compete against other live players. The Vietcong 2 demo only allows you to play their multiplayer portion of the game. This is both good and bad. For starters, it's free online multiplayer against real-life players, without the same scripted levels over and over again. Unfortunately, only two maps are available with this demo (one jungle- based, and one an urban training complex). Three classes for each team are available (generic fighter/infantry, sapper/engineer, & medic). Weapons are limited to each class respectively, even though you're capable of picking up any weapon on the battlefield (as long as you drop your respective weapon). Overall, the demo is quite extensive for a free product, and great for those of you needing something to spice things up (or if you're interested in the actual game). > Base Requirements: - 2.0 Ghz CPU or better (Remember, Intel M's can be lower ghz) - 256MB RAM or better - DirectX 9.0 Compatible Video Card w/ Pixel Shader 2.0 Support > On a side note, I don't have an official list of video cards that knowingly support Pixel Shaders 2.0 or better. I've heard of people who have had problems running the demo even though their specs are great (except for horrible video cards). If you have an integerated video card, it most likely will not work with this game. I've also heard that a stripped ATI Radeon 9800 (not the Pro version) does not work. Try to find out if your card supports Pixel Shaders version 2.0 in the video properties of your card. -<>--<>--<>--<>--<>--<>--<>--<>--<>--<>--<>--<>--<>--<>--<>--<>--<>- ============================ - 2) Basics - ============================ Before you can get started, there are a few things you have to do in the demo to actually log on and play. ______________ /Setting it Up/ -=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-= Make sure your computer meets the above requirements listed. Now, you must find a download link that is consistent and fast enough to download the entire demo. The demo file is generally zipped, but roughly around 455MB. Try to have at least 2 GBs free on your hard-drive for insurance measures. Try the following links for more info on where to download the demo: - http://www.pterodon.com/ - http://www.fileplanet.com/ - After you have downloaded the demo, open up the zip, and extract the files. Run the setup file from the unzipped package. Install the Vietcong 2 Multiplayer Demo. Start it up via the game file. Everytime you run it, Vietcong 2 prompts for your video card settings. Highlight your video card via the drop- down box. Unless you have a superb setup, keep the colors on 16-bit, and pick a fair resolution. - Since I was running the game on a laptop, I chose my native resolution (1440 x 900). You'll most likely want 800 x 600 or 1024 x 768. Triple buffer helps smooth things out. Click to play the demo once your settings are straight. After a few brief screens, you'll be at the main menu. Click on Multiplayer. - In order to play the multiplayer demo, you must sign-in with an account. The Vietcong 2 demo is supported by Gamespy, and it is necessary that you have a Gamespy account in order to play online. If you don't, click the register button. Otherwise, type in your gamespy e-mail login, and the password. Don't type a profile name. Click the sign-in button, THEN select the profile name via the available ones on the list below (there will usually be one). Now you're set to play online. __________________________ (Customizing your character) ============================ - It is highly recommended that you customize your character both name-wise and appearance wise. To do so, enter the Multiplayer tab and click customize. You can change the facial appearance of your US & Vietcong team characters. There are various accessories ranging from sunglasses, to hats, to face textures, and even gas masks. Also, change your Profile name to match something as to what you want. You probably don't want your full name listed there. If you want a quick setup, click the Random button until you find an appearance that is gratifying. ___________ /Game Modes/ -=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-= The multiplayer demo version has three different gameplay types, with two different maps. Map sizes can contain up to 64 players, but there are rarely any servers that large due to ping problems. -=- Capture the Flag -=- > Primary mode of play > Two teams (US vs. Vietcong) > Maps: Depot, Trail - Each team has a spawn point on the map. There is a pole post in the center of their landing zone which holds up the team's own flag. The goal is to snatch the opposing team's flag, and return it to your post to earn a score point. If a flag carrier is killed, they drop the flag. If the same team walks over their own flag, it is returned to the post. If an opposing enemy walks over an opposing flag, they will pick it up, and continue the path to capture it. RATING: *** + Capture the Flag is easily the most realistic mode of play for the Vietcong 2 demo. You have to select from either a Fighter or Engineer class. Through the game, after you have reached the first rank (10+ points), you can select a Medic. Normally, on capture the flag, you'll find it to be realistic as your HUD is not normally displayed (Vietnam mode is usually enabled). This means you do not know where your allies are (unless you pause the game), and you have to be cautious with ammo rounds fired. Secondly, it's tougher and more team-based. More points are rewarded for defending/capturing flags. This mode works best on Trail. - Unfortunately, the limit of classes means there is a small selection of weapons available. You don't get to experience the full array of weapons with a limit of classes. Several classes are not in the demo. Too many players camp the defending points. -=- Deathmatch -=- > Alternate mode of play > Free for all (US or Vietcong skins available) > Maps: Depot, Trail - The goal is to score the most points (only earned for kills). Spawn points are randomly placed on a map, so you do not spawn at set points. Generally difficult and camper-prone. RATING: ** + Deathmatch, while almost a necessary element in any first-person shooter, feels awkward in Vietcong 2. Almost all weapons are available on a map that are normally in the game. You have various skins to pick from, and it's great for scoring points. No teamwork involved or pesky objectives. Just kill, kill, kill. - Too slow paced. Too many campers, and campers often win the round. On smaller maps, spawn points can awkwardly place you behind another player. Players often spam booby traps everywhere and/or use only ranged rockets/LAWs. -=- Team Deathmatch -=- > Secondary mode of play > Two teams (US vs. Vietcong) > Maps: Depot, Trail - The goal is to score the most points with your team (only earned for kills). Spawn points are randomly placed on a map, so you do not spawn at set points. Probably the most fun you'll get out of the Vietcong 2 demo. RATING: **** + Team deathmatch at its finest. You have comrades on your team, which means you must be weary of friendly fire. Nearly all weapons are available on each map, so you can really test the firing capabilities to a maximum. Extremely fun on the depot map where explosions occur everywhere. - Only drawback is with nasty spawnpoints. Sometimes you'll spawn behind an enemy or vice versa. Teamkills are frequent; don't punish often. _________ /Controls/ -=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-= The controls are setup fairly well for Vietcong 2. Why you ask? Because they seem perfectly set for either a desktop PC, or a laptop computer. In my case with a laptop, the arrangement scheme worked out perfectly. I'd like to thank Pterodon for providing this control layout in their readme documentation. Easier than transferring notes from/to the game. Controls can be customized in the options menu as well. Action: Primary Key: Alternate Key: Forward Up W Backward Down S Strafe Left Left A Strafe Right Right D Lean Left Delete Q Lean Right Page Down E Jump Right Shift Space Bar Crouch Right Ctrl Shift Go Prone Num Pad 0 Ctrl Sprint Toggle / Caps Lock Fire LMB Aim RMB Reload Mouse Wheel Button R Use Enter Key F Prev Weapon Mouse Wheel+ Next Weapon Mouse Wheel- Drop Weapon Backspace X Command Key End C Hand/Use Enter Call Medic F2 Call Engineer F3 - Leaning can only be done when stationary, not while on the move. Jumping, crouching, proning, and sprinting eat up stamina on your energy bar. While it regenerates after walking/resting, it prevents you from bunnyhopping or repeating actions. You must hold down the right mouse-button to keep the iron sights up. To pick items up, put your cursor over the intended item as a "hand" icon should appear. Press enter to use the designated item/equipment. If you cannot pick something up, it usually means your inventory is full. Drop some items by pressing Backspace. -<>--<>--<>--<>--<>--<>--<>--<>--<>--<>--<>--<>--<>--<>--<>--<>--<>- ============================ - 3) Classes - ============================ Classes are the types of soldiers you elect to use in Vietcong 2. Sometimes classes are disabled based on the game mode (generic deathmatch). For the most part though, classes affect your general appearance and equipment slots setup. While you can customize what weapons you use for each class, certain rifles/equipment are not available for base classes. For example, a medic cannot have an L1A1 unless that person finds one on the battlefield off of a corpse, or on the ground. This section will describe the available classes in the demo. __________________________________________ | Infantry Grunt (US) / Fighter (Vietcong) | |------------------------------------------|____________________________ |Equipment Slots: (1) Primary, (1) Secondary, (1) Explosives | |-----------------------------------------------------------------------| |The prototypical average soldier, a grunt/fighter is capable of engaging in |numerous situations involving both close quarters and ranged combat. In the |demo, the grunt/fighter is the best killing machine. Capable of getting the |best weapons with range. Unfortunately, they possess no special qualities, |but are by far the best class to use in the demo. |------------------------------------------------------------------------ |Equipment Options (US): M-1911 A1, Remington 870, M-1 A1 Thompson, | Sten Mk.II, L1 A1, Ingram MAC-10, M-72 LAW, | M-67 Grenade |Equipment Options (Vietcong): S&W Mod.27, Mod.61 Scorpion, SKS-1945, | Shotgun Baikai, StG-44, M-72 LAW, | Chicom Grenade |------------------------------------------------------------------------ ___________________________________ | Engineer (US) / Sapper (Vietcong) | |-----------------------------------|___________________________________ |Equipment Slots: (1) Primary, (1) Secondary, (2) Explosives | |-----------------------------------------------------------------------| |The engineer/sapper is a specialty class in Vietcong 2, and actually |somewhat of a cheap downgrade compared to regular infantry. These units |are capable of getting special equipment unattainable to the other classes |including booby traps, smoke grenades, and a wrench. However, their use in |the demo is very limited with no vehicles. To make matters worse, booby |traps can easily be triggered by friendlies yielding teamkills. Difficult |class to master. |------------------------------------------------------------------------ |Equipment Options (US): M-1911 A1, Remington 870, M-1 A1 Thompson, | Sterling L34A1, Ingram MAC-10, M-67 Grenade, | M-18 Smoke Grenade, M18 Claymore, Booby Trap |Equipment Options (Vietcong): Makarov, Mod.61 Scorpion, PPSh-41, | Shotgun Baikai, Mod.58, M-18 Smoke Grenade, | M18 Claymore, Booby Trap |------------------------------------------------------------------------ _______________________________ | Medic (US) / Medic (Vietcong) | |-------------------------------|_______________________________________ |Equipment Slots: (1) Primary, (1) Secondary, (1) Medkit | |-----------------------------------------------------------------------| |For starters, Medics are restricted in the demo until you earn a Level 1 |ranking on that server in a round. Basically, you have to get 10+ points, |then you can select the Medic class. The only advantage a medic possesses |is the ability to revive downed teammates who have not been killed, and |purposely wait for a medic to revive them. A medic's weapons are limited, |has no explosives, but can drop medpacks on the ground to assist soldiers. |The reviving process takes up to 5 seconds, and leaves a medic exposed to |enemy fire. Nice class to show off your fancy ranking. |------------------------------------------------------------------------ |Equipment Options (US): S&W Mod.27, Remington 870, M-1 A1 Thompson, | M-14, Carl Gustav M-45, Ingram MAC-10 |Equipment Options (Vietcong): S&W Mod.27, Mod.61 Scorpion, SKS-1945, | Shotgun Baikai, StG-44, MAT-49 |------------------------------------------------------------------------ -<>--<>--<>--<>--<>--<>--<>--<>--<>--<>--<>--<>--<>--<>--<>--<>--<>- ============================= - 4) Weapons - ============================= Thankfully, Pterodon made critical decisions when it came to the weapons of Vietcong 2 - they're varied, and they're cool. You literally see a variety of weapons ranging over the past century used during the Vietnam War. Whether they were actually used in the war brings questions to hand, however, it certainly provides a level of depth to the demo. This section will discuss ALL weapons available in the demo version. Ratings will be provided. ^NOTE: Not all of these weapons are attainable in Capture the Flag. You must play TDM/DM in order to experience about 65% of the game's demo weapons. In CTF, weapons are limited to classes, which takes out a good chunk of them. Try a deathmatch game to get a feel for the weapons! ^NOTE: Weapons are in no particular order. I had to jot them down from the demo. ,:> M-1911 A1 (US) .:> TYPE: Pistol - POWER: *** - RANGE: *** - OVERALL: *** - A sturdy sidearm for most law enforcement officers, the 1911 was a typical for most officers/certain infantry. Stable, capable of firing rounds at semi-auto capabilities, but exhibits no specialty over other pistols. ,:> Remington 870 (US) .:> TYPE: Shotgun - POWER: **** - RANGE: ** - OVERALL: *** - This is one of the few FPS's where you'll find shotguns to be worth the effort in picking up. The Remington is by far the best shotgun in the game with pump action capabilities, large loading capabilities, and one shot nearly puts an opponent down 75% of the time. The only trouble is that your shot must be aimed straight-on (either with crosshairs or iron sights) to yield a hit. Can go on killing streaks with this. ,:> M-1 A1 Thompson (US) .:> TYPE: Machine Gun - POWER: *** - RANGE: *** - OVERALL: **** - A popular automatic used during WWII, the Thompson is known as the spray-n-pray weapon, as it features a large clip that just goes "all over the place." The idea behind the Thompson is to lay down short bursts of automatic fire to incapacitate a target. The Thompson has nearly 30 bullets, is fairly accurate for a machine gun, and not very big. Very useful sidearm for assaulting. ,:> Sten Mk.II (US) .:> TYPE: Silenced Machine Gun - POWER: ** - RANGE: ** - OVERALL: *** - The Sten is a British-made model, but modified with a custom silencer on end. Obviously some sort of special-forces mold, the Sten is ideal for jungle scenarios where you don't want to be heard, and you don't want to be seen. While its ratings are fairly weak, the Sten has the advantage of surprise and ambush. Use it to your advantage. ,:> L1 A1 (US) .:> TYPE: Rifle - POWER: **** - RANGE: **** - OVERALL: ***** - My favorite rifle to use on the US, the L1 A1 is very reminscent of the G3 A3 (a later build). It utilizes the same base stock, and features cooling drills on the tube to help bullet velocity/venting. Most of all is that it can be fired either semi-auto, or full-auto. While the 20-round clip is small, this gun packs a punch and can be used for moderate sniping, defending, or all-out assaults. Great to use as US infantry. ,:> Ingram MAC-10 (US) .:> TYPE: Submachine Gun - POWER: *** - RANGE: ** - OVERALL: ** - Although I'm not sure how this weapon got involved in the Vietnam War (considering it was developed in Israel in the 70s), it's there. The MAC-10 is designed for small situations with less range, and the need for controlled automatic fire. It's like shooting 30 9-mm's in a matter of seconds. Still, why bother with a dinky gun when you have a dunking gun. ,:> M-72 LAW (US) .:> TYPE: Rocket Launcher - POWER: ***** - RANGE: ***** - OVERALL: ***** - The LAW is the best version of a rocket launcher in the game, since it's more modernized than the RPG-7, and seems to have more accurate aim. While LAWs are one-shot deals, they're great for picking off stationary targets at far-off ranges. Hell, you could blow someone up 10 feet away from you and still survive the blast. ,:> M-67 Grenade (US) .:> TYPE: Explosive Projectile - POWER: *** - RANGE: ** - OVERALL: *** - The typical frag grenade of any US soldier, these babies look like small circular objects filled with specialty materials. Grenades don't do much damage in Vietcong 2, since you have to be fairly close to the blast radius to even receive a hint of damage. ,:> Sterling L34A1 (US) .:> TYPE: Machine Gun - POWER: *** - RANGE: *** - OVERALL: *** - Another British mainstay weapon, the L34A1 seems to be an upgrade of the Sten.MkII (not sure if there's a relation). Stock build is larger, features auto/semi-auto, and an obtusive sideclip loading bay. Nonetheless, this sidearm is designed for less combat-intensive troops (aka engineers). Seems fairly accurate though; must be why the L85A1 turned out to be a huge success. ,:> M-18 Smoke Grenade .:> TYPE: Projectile - POWER: n/a - RANGE: ** - OVERALL: * - Smoke Grenades were often used in the Vietnam War for signaling helo drops, artillery strikes, moderate air strikes, or just flat-out causing a diversion. Putting them in the demo is useless though unless you're playing capture the flag. The only purpose they serve is to cover your movements as you rush/retreat to/from flag locations. ,:> M18 Claymore .:> TYPE: Explosive Projectile - POWER: **** - RANGE: *** - OVERALL: ** - Another fun-to-use device, at too much of a hassle. Claymores are one-sided explosives that are mounted on the ground, and then (usually) triggered with a separate clicker device. Unfortunately, in Vietcong 2, proximity claymores didn't seem to exist. Instead, they must be manually clicked or shot at with a weapon. Thankfully though, the blast power is extensive and fun to watch. ,:> Booby Trap .:> TYPE: Explosives - POWER: *** - RANGE: ** - OVERALL: *** - Another useful device that goes down the drain thanks to stupidity. The booby trap is an explosive charge set on a small wooden stake, with string attached to another small wooden stake. When an opponent trips or tugs at the wire, the explosive charge is suppose to go off. While this all works well in Vietcong 2, the range on booby traps are VERY limited (maybe only five feet). Usually, your opponents can see both ends of a stake by just looking around. Secondly, teammates trigger them automatically, meaning you're charged a teamkill, and there's no warning sign. It's realistic, but reckless. ,:> M-14 (US) .:> TYPE: Carbine - POWER: *** - RANGE: **** - OVERALL: *** - The M-14 Carbine was a fairly-used weapon during WWII, and also utilized during the Vietnam conflict. It was more of the less similar to a Garand except less powerful, and made compact for nifty maneuverable officers. The weapon's distinct firing sound, along with the ability to hit ranged targets with moderate power makes it an appealing choice. In Vietcong 2 though, it has an odd recoil pattern (left-right, left-right). You cannot pop away at targets, but must pinch at them one at a time. ,:> Carl Gustav M-45 (US) .:> TYPE: Carbine - POWER: *** - RANGE: *** - OVERALL: ** - A cool name, slightly European, but not as rangeful as the M-14. The Carl Gustav is typically given to medics, or people needing a weapon to lay down a pun without too much stun. Has a larger clip giving you the extra ammo needed to cover fire, but not exceptionally accurate with hodge-podge recoil. ,:> S&W Mod.27 (Vietcong) .:> TYPE: Pistol - POWER: **** - RANGE: ** - OVERALL: ** - This is actually a modified .357 Magnum designed for more treacherous environments. The recoil is fairly horrendous, which makes it difficult to land long, accurate shots. On a side note though, it's a nice sidearm that packs solid punch, but with only six bullets, and a slow reload, can also be a shelf pistol. ,:> Mod.61 Scorpion (Vietcong) .:> TYPE: Submachine Gun - POWER: *** - RANGE: *** - OVERALL: *** - Very similar to the MAC-10 in design, but better in performance. This is a compact submachine gun ideally suited for close-range fighters, or sappers. The great thing about the Scorpion is that it has controllable automatic fire, and seems to hit on a large majority of its shots. ,:> SKS-1945 (Vietcong) .:> TYPE: Rifle - POWER: **** - RANGE: *** - OVERALL: *** - An often used and common rifle of the Vietcong (not the NVA), the SKS was used for long-range capabilities at the cost of cheap affordability. Seems like the design was ripped off of the Germans from WWII, the SKS is capable of semi-auto/auto fire, but only has a 10-round clip. Very useful for clicking, clicking, and I got a kill! I love this rifle in the game, but there are certainly better weapons to use on the battlefield. ,:> Shotgun Baikai (Vietcong) .:> TYPE: Shotgun - POWER: *** - RANGE: ** - OVERALL: * - In my opinion, one of the worst weapons you can pick in the game. The Baikai is a double-barreled shotgun. This means you can only load two shells at a time, and it takes a fair amount of time to reload. If you miss, you're screwed. If you hit him only once, you're screwed. Its range is limited, it's worse than the Remington, and should never be used by any class. ,:> StG-44 (Vietcong) .:> TYPE: Rifle - POWER: **** - RANGE: **** - OVERALL: ***** - One of the first assault rifles ever developed (by the Germans of all people during WWII), the StG-44 is reserved to the most elite troops. In this case, it's a rare, but well-used rifle by the Vietcong. Capable of laying down powerful shots in either ranged, or close quarters battles, the StG-44 is an ideal weapon to use against American infantry limited to their small round clips. A large clip, a nice design, and very useful. ,:> Chicom Grenade (Vietcong) .:> TYPE: Explosive Projectile - POWER: *** - RANGE: *** - OVERALL: *** - Besides a potato stick design stolen from the Germans, the Chicom grenade has a long tube with a screwbulb at the end used to charge the explosives inside. However, both grenades seem identical in performance and execution in this game. ,:> Makarov (Vietcong) .:> TYPE: Pistol - POWER: *** - RANGE: *** - OVERALL: *** - Almost identical to the 1911 in stability and execution, the Makarov is a Russian-made model that was more commonly given out to Vietcong troops. While it's one round short of the 1911, it still packs a whallop for an even smaller design. ,:> PPSh-41 (Vietcong) .:> TYPE: Machine Gun - POWER: ** - RANGE: *** - OVERALL: ** - A poor's man version of a machine gun, the PPSh-41 has a fairly rotund design, with a large 70-round barrel clip. From the stats, you'd think it makes a great weapon, but it turns out merely mediocre. The lack of power in each round greatly hauls down the overall power you can yield from the barrel. I'd rather have a Thompson than this, and the Thompson is nicknamed a recoil machine. ,:> Mod.58 (Vietcong) .:> TYPE: Rifle - POWER: **** - RANGE: *** - OVERALL: *** - Comparable to the L1 A1, except less accurate, the Mod.58 is a modified AK-47 more suited for ranged environments and close range scenarios. While it packs less of a punch than the AK-47, it still is a high firing rifle that is excellent to use on the move. Hard to control in short bursts, especially for accuracy. ,:> MAT-49 (Vietcong) .:> TYPE: Submachine Gun - POWER: *** - RANGE: *** - OVERALL: *** - Sort of like a mix between a M-14 and a Thompson, the MAT-49 features a large clip, which a modified stock frame that gives it a weaker, yet high firing appearance. Typically given to ranking or assault officers, the MAT-49 was a specialty weapon for any given scenario. Not very common though. ,:> Nagant Mod.1895 (Vietcong) .:> TYPE: Silenced Pistol - POWER: **** - RANGE: *** - OVERALL: **** - Who would have ever thought that the Vietcong used an 1895-made revolver, with a modified silencer down the barrel? I certainly didn't. This .357 Magnum revolver has an extensive silencer that doubles the length of the gun at the compensation of power and stealth. Very useful, but extremely rare, and only available in deathmatch. ,:> Degtaryev 1928 (Vietcong) .:> TYPE: Machine Gun - POWER: **** - RANGE: ** - OVERALL: ** - Another classical-based machine gun. The iron sights alone are enough to warrant collectible, as opposed to operating machinery. Has an odd rate of fire, does fair damage, but other than that, suffers from heavy recoil. There are better MGs out there. ,:> RPD (Vietcong) .:> TYPE: Machine Gun - POWER: **** - RANGE: *** - OVERALL: ***** - Almost equivalent to the M60 except more balanced, the RPD is the ideal support machine gun for the Vietcong. It features a very fast rate of fire, while yielding almost PKM damage equivalents. Has a huge barrel clip as well to expend on a majority of your opponents. ,:> Ak-47 (Vietcong) .:> TYPE: Rifle - POWER: **** - RANGE: **** - OVERALL: **** - While most soldiers think of the AK as recoil heaven, it surely bounces around with good reasoning - it's powerful, and it's a rifle. The AK-47 can do both fast firing and yield drop-down kills while on the move. The stock isn't particularly built well, but it gets the job done, hency why many Vietcong used it. ,:> Mosin-Nagant 1891/30 (Vietcong) .:> TYPE: Bolt-Action Rifle - POWER: *** - RANGE: ***** - OVERALL: *** - Anyone who has played WWII FPS's knows that the K98 or Kar Rifle always kicks butt. It's powerful, it lays down a whooping, and it has a neat bolt- action reload. The Mosin Nagant 1891/30 is the equivalent of the K98 (minus the modernization). This is practically a bolt-action rifle that supposedly packs a whallop, but is fairly weak in the demo. Has precise accuracy though. ,:> RPG-7 (Vietcong) .:> TYPE: Rocket Launcher - POWER: ***** - RANGE: **** - OVERALL: ***** - Even though this rocket launcher has just normal iron sights, the RPG-7 still makes a worthy mobile launcher of projectiles. You can lay down accurate rocket shots on well-defended targets, and watch the limbs fly in a fury of violence. ,:> Mod.59 (Vietcong) .:> TYPE: Machine Gun - POWER: **** - RANGE: *** - OVERALL: **** - Another stock modified version for the NVA, the Mod.59 is an entirely different build from the 58. Matter of fact, the Mod.59 is actually a prone-style machine gun designed for support fire. It's not as well- designed as the RPD, and doesn't have the same ammo capacity. It still makes a useful machine gun though at the cost of recoil. ,:> M60 (US) .:> TYPE: Machine Gun - POWER: ***** - RANGE: **** - OVERALL: ***** - There are reasons why M60's and .50 CALs were mounted inside of bunkers and on vehicles - they kick ass. This is what the M60 does, and it does it at the cost of recoil. You should always be proned when firing this. Secondly, if you're not proned, you're probably firing a mounted one. Fires massive shells at the cost of a slower rate of fire, but certainly pays off. ,:> Trombone Gun .:> TYPE: Rifle - POWER: **** - RANGE: ** - OVERALL: ** - The Trombone Gun is practically a musket rifle. Each round has to be loaded with powder and respective pellets. So you're exposing yourself by even firing this weapon. Secondly, the range tends to cut down its usefulness. The shot spreads out after so many yards, but it's a guaranteed kill 40 feet or less. ,:> M-40 (US) .:> TYPE: Sniper Rifle - POWER: ***** - RANGE: ***** - OVERALL: **** - This is the base version of the ever-so popular Marine-style sniper rifle. The M-40 is a bolt-action reload rifle mounted with a scope. It is specifically designed for shots at long yardage, hence why it goes through many field tests. Only the best shots are awarded the use of this rifle. Sadly though, the Dragunov (while weaker) seems to always overrule in the sniping department. ,:> SVD Dragunov (Vietcong) .:> TYPE: Sniper Rifle - POWER: **** - RANGE: ***** - OVERALL: ***** - While it's slightly less powerful than the M-40, the Dragunov is reloaded via clips, meaning you don't zoom out after firing a shot. This makes a huge difference on the battlefield, allowing you to take multiple shots on multiple opponents within a matter of seconds. Usually takes two rounds to down an opponent. ,:> M-79 (US) .:> TYPE: Grenade Launcher - POWER: **** - RANGE: **** - OVERALL: ***** - A common exploit for many on Depot is to grab the M-79, and just launch a grenade into the M60 bunker for 3-4 kills. The M-79 simply rules. It's a separate launcher designed for sending explosive grenades up to a few hundred yards (when aimed precisely). Very effective, very useful, and great for flushing opponents out of foxholes. ,:> XM-177 (US) .:> TYPE: Rifle - POWER: *** - RANGE: *** - OVERALL: ** - Believe it or not, this is actually an alternate name for the CAR-15, which is a short stock version of the M16. So basically, the XM-177 is an assault rifle, that's partially compact. The only problem is that it sucks in this game, because of inconsistency. Recoil tends to be a problem, and in full auto, it hardly hits anything. Damage, while good, is not overwhelming to make it a necessary pickup. ,:> M-16 (US) .:> TYPE: Rifle - POWER: *** - RANGE: **** - OVERALL: **** - Practically the souped-up version of a XM-177, the M-16 is designed for long-range encounters, even though it can handle close encounters fairly well. Power is not as great as the AKs, but it has handling designed for precise shots, and doesn't bounce off too much from recoil. ,:> S&W Mod.39 (US) .:> TYPE: Silenced Pistol - POWER: ** - RANGE: *** - OVERALL: ** - A somewhat 1911-ish stock build, but just designed as a partial alternate for many stealthy missions. They were often used for clearing out rat tunnels, but since there are none in the demo, and it's so rare to find this on Depot, I doubt you'll have much use for it. ,:> Stetchkin APS (Vietcong) .:> TYPE: Pistol - POWER: *** - RANGE: **** - OVERALL: **** - One of the few high-round clip pistols in the game, the Stetchkin features 20 bullets in a single clip. This is ideal for any combat situation as it gives you a lot of bang for your buck. Again though, this is a specialty pistol that is fairly rare. -<>--<>--<>--<>--<>--<>--<>--<>--<>--<>--<>--<>--<>--<>--<>--<>--<>- ============================ - 5) Maps - ============================ There are only two available maps in the demo version of the game, one of them which is really cool, and the other one which is really scary. This section will cover the maps along with some brief gameplay strategies. *^* Depot *^* ============= "A US Special Forces training complex packed with plenty of explosives to simulate the Vietnam experience. Yeah...right." ________________________________ | | | | - The X's mark where obstacles might | | X X X X | | be such as solid boxes, or explosive | XX | | barrels. There is a M60 bunker you | X X | | can use by entering a small door on | | ^^^^^^^^^ | |____| the lower side. There are tons of | | |M60 | | | | weapons spread throughout. | |______|Bunker |______| | | | | | X X XX X | |________________________________| TIPS: - Group everyone inside the bunker, and protect the lower door, while someone guns on the M60. Watch for someone to grab explosives and try to flush you out. Don't overheat the M60. - There is a RPG-7 spawn in the middle of the map, a M-72 LAW spawn on a roof to the right of the bunker, and a M-79 grenade launcher spawn in the upper right corner of the map. Booby traps are deadly on this map, along with any pump-action shotgun. - CTF should be with 2 people on defense, 1 on offense. Extremely easy to defend due to small size of map. *^* Trail *^* ============= "A jungle-based environment near Ho Chi Minh Trail. A creek bed passes through the center of the area, while most of the terrain is hill-based with palm leaves, jungle plants, and strange animal sounds. Watch for the rocky cliff paths as they setup for easy ambush points." Vietcong Spawn / (Village) / ~ ~ / C C C ~ ~ ~ ~ ~C C / ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ C ~ C ~ ~ / / ~C C~ ~ ~ ~ ~ / CC ~ ~/ ~ ~ ~ US C / Spawn TIPS: - You basically got three ways to hit either spawn, the left point across the creek bed, the center point via the canyon pathways, or the third path via the creek bed upstream. - The upstream is the best offensive route for the US, while the creek bed on the left is designed for the Vietcong. The center routes generally favor the Vietcong, along with the Vietcong spawn point. The village has several buildings inside in which Vietcong can setup ambush points. Watch the roof for potential snipers. The US spawn consists of a giant hill with your resupply in the center. It can be taken quite easily, so play good defense as the US. - If you're being overrun on the left/right flank as either team, take the canyon routes in the center, and drop down to the creek bed. Then, flank behind the opponents who have you stacked. You can hit either team from behind for several easy kills before being gunned down. -<>--<>--<>--<>--<>--<>--<>--<>--<>--<>--<>--<>--<>--<>--<>--<>--<>- ============================ - 6) Common Questions - ============================ )) Gameplay (( ---------------------------- << What would you rate Vietcong 2 based on the multiplayer demo? >> - Probably a [7/10]. Honestly, I've never touched a Vietcong game in my life, so this was a new experience. I've had tons of experience with FPS's before, and this game reminds me the most like Hostile Intent, Operation Flashpoint, or even moderately Men of Valor. Obviously, Pterodon was focusing on creating a realistic point-of-view with the game, and this is quite obvious as they have so many weapons inside the actual demo you can use. All of these weapons are authentic for the most part, unlike games that twist or mold their own weapon names. The graphics are not impressive from a modern standpoint. While the requirements are moderately high, I can easily say BF2 is a much prettier game than this. Does it really make a difference though? How much more prettier can jungle leaves and/or dirt on the ground get? Believe it or not, this game runs beautiful textures, it just suffers because we've only seen two maps in the demo. Audio is clear and precise, although the lack of VOIP is a small downfall. The gameplay is where it tends to be lackluster. Realism comes at the price of fluidity. Demo seemed somewhat quirky, edgy, but then again, it was just a demo. << What are the system requirements for the demo? >> - Check the introduction section. Be prepared to have a decent video card that supports pixel shading 2. << What type of account do I need to play online? >> - Just a default Gamespy account, free or premium. The in-game browser uses Gamespy, so it makes sense that they use Gamespy log-in to cooperate. << Which weapon is the best? >> - Depends on the gameplay mode. For CTF, the L1A1 has huge upside, but the StG-44 really makes a whopping difference on the battlefield. Anything related to TDM or DM should be the RPG-7/M-72 LAW/M-79 with the M60 coming in a close second. << How do I pick a different teamkill option? >> - If you are teamkilled, a mini dialog box pops up after you die. You generally have several options to choose from. You can ignore the team kill (nothing happens to the teamkiller). You can warn him verbally, you can instantly kill him, you can vote kick him, or you can vote ban him. To pick a different option, use the mousewheel to move up/down, then press the left mouse button to respawn. Note, if you pick the vote options, it goes by majority votes. So, people might vote yes just because they think it's funny to see someone kicked/banned from a server. Abusing this feature could get you banned if an admin is on. << Are there any other versions of Vietcong? >> - Yes, the original Vietcong was released for the PC around late 2003. Vietcong: Purple Haze was designed for the consoles & PC as a partial standalone/expansion. There was also Fist Alpha which was a multiplayer add-on mod. << Does this game favor the Vietcong in any way? >> - Not really, although it represents both sides very well. US has disadvantages via their bulky uniforms, while some of the Vietcong models have matching ghille helmets, and solid green suits to match in with the dense green jungles. It's not a game that forces you to play the Vietcong as a dominant team, but rather, tries to represent a realistic aspect of the war. << Any idea as to how the single player will play? >> - From a few tidbits, it sounds like you'll be stationed as an officer in Hue right before the Tet Offensive is initialized. The first game placed you in a base camp near the Cambodian border, but Vietcong 2 looks to be more urban intense. Plus you'll be able to drive vehicles - woohoo. Looks like there will be both a US & Vietcong campaign. << When is the release date for the full version? >> - October 6th-7th or later in the month after October 20th. Hopefully, barring any delays, we'll see the finished product very soon. << What are the levels I earn when I'm playing on certain servers? >> - Apparently, Vietcong 2 has an incorporated ranking system (it's only available on certain servers). The idea behind it is that you gain experience points for any action you perform (returning a flag, killing an opponent, not teamkilling). Once you accumulate enough points, you'll earn a star level. Your level goes up from 1 to an excessive number. All I know is that the higher your number, the better class you can select from the class selection menu. Obviously, the demo is limited to three classes (two base, one earned), so you can only get one extra class. In the full game, I'm sure it will permit you to select a more advanced, or specialized class. Otherwise, everyone would play Commando. << How come there is no radar? >> - It's called Vietnam mode. It's a special realism mode that disables your HUD for all players. Makes it more realistic, tougher to know your ammo count, and most of all, shows how it is to be a soldier without GPS. Very fun, very frustrating - you be the judge. << Are you buying the full version? >> - No. That's the reason I wrote this demo FAQ. More people need to know about this quality product (and game) that Pterodon is developing. I'm not purchasing it simply because I don't have to. It's not the best game in the world, but a great one. -<>--<>--<>--<>--<>--<>--<>--<>--<>--<>--<>--<>--<>--<>--<>--<>--<>- ====================================================== - 7) Copyright/Distribution/Reproduction Guidelines - ====================================================== This FAQ/Strategy Guide/Walkthrough is my own published work, and copyrighted by Christopher Zawada. Whatever you do, DO NOT edit this FAQ in any way. DO NOT steal anything from this FAQ. If you want to use some information in your own guide, simply ask me. If you want to place this guide on your website, either link to the GameFAQs game page, or download the file and place it on your own web server. Basically, you can post this on your website as long as it's in ORIGINAL form, and not linking directly to GameFAQs. Aside from that, all proper credit is due when necessary. Also, don't even think about selling FAQs. Trying to prosper off of other people's work will get you in big time trouble (coming from an eBay seller myself). This is a list of the current known sites that host my FAQs: - http://www.gamefaqs.com/ - http://www.ign.com/ - http://www.neoseeker.com/ - http://www.cheatcc.com/ - http://www.cheatplanet.com/ -<>--<>--<>--<>--<>--<>--<>--<>--<>--<>--<>--<>--<>--<>--<>--<>--<>- ============================ - 8) Proper Credit - ============================ I'd like to thank the following people for their help in making this FAQ possible: )) CJayC (( for constantly updating GameFAQs, and dedicating his entire life to it. Takes a lot of effort to keep a site going this long. )) Pterodon (( for creating a free Vietcong 2 multiplayer demo that everyone can enjoy. Very few companies actually showcase their multiplayer capabilities without a fee, and this is just a gift to the public. Most of all, thanks for posting the controls inside your readme file. )) Rootsecure.net (( for providing an ASCII generator to help make the title. I was in a rush, and needed a quick fix. Their site was just the key. )) Fileplanet.com (( for providing a high-speed download line to get the demo file. Even though they changed their policy the past few years to concentrate on paid members, they're still a free service. "Some people make sacrifices to make other people happy." - Chris Zawada "Freeeeeeddooommmmmmmmm!" - William Wallace (Braveheart)