Hidden And Dangerous

Overview

Hidden and Dangerous emerges as a polarizing tactical gem that demands patience and strategic thinking. This World War II squad-based shooter delivers deep tactical gameplay that rewards meticulous planning, though its punishing difficulty and AI limitations create a steep barrier to entry. Originally a commercial release now offered as freeware, it combines realistic combat mechanics with ambitious squad management in a package that either captivates tactical purists or frustrates those seeking straightforward action. The game's unforgiving nature means every decision carries weight, creating tension-filled moments that stick with players long after missions end.

This is a must download for those Rainbow-Six fans out there. But before playing the game better prepare yourself well as you may have to repeat missions to get a clear idea of the different level layouts.

CoolDude

Tactical Depth and Squad Management

At its core, Hidden and Dangerous shines through its sophisticated squad command system. Players control up to eight specialized operatives, each with distinct skills in marksmanship, endurance, stealth, and technical abilities. The game forces thoughtful unit deployment – sending your demolition expert through a sewer tunnel while positioning snipers on overwatch creates genuinely cinematic moments of coordinated warfare. Equipment management adds another layer, requiring players to strategically distribute limited weapons and gear before each mission. This isn't run-and-gun warfare; success comes from positioning units in complementary fields of fire and synchronizing their actions through the intuitive command interface. The ability to instantly switch between first-person action and top-down tactical views creates a uniquely flexible combat experience that remains impressive decades after release.

Realistic Combat Mechanics

The game distinguishes itself through remarkably detailed ballistics and location-based damage that predates modern shooters. A carefully placed headshot delivers instant lethality, while limb wounds dramatically impact enemy mobility and accuracy. This realism extends to environmental interaction – players can loot fallen enemies for ammunition, utilize period-accurate weapons ranging from Luger pistols to MG42 machine guns, and even commandeer enemy vehicles scattered throughout the maps. The inclusion of drivable tanks, trucks, and motorcycles provides strategic mobility options, though controlling them feels authentically cumbersome. Stealth mechanics reward patience, with tall grass, shadows, and silenced weapons offering genuine infiltration opportunities. These systems combine to create palpable tension during firefights where every bullet counts and cover becomes a lifesaving necessity.

You have full control over all 8 members of your squad, each member having different tactical skills... When playing as the person the skills are not very noticeable, but when you let the AI take over it comes in very useful.

Zero Gamer

Punishing Learning Curve and Mission Design

Hidden and Dangerous demands mastery through repetition, presenting some of gaming's most brutally efficient enemy AI. Missions range from sabotage operations to prisoner rescues across diverse European theaters, each requiring thorough reconnaissance and adaptive planning. The game refuses to hold players' hands – minimal waypoints and intelligence mean early attempts often end in ambushes or overlooked objectives. This trial-by-fire approach divides players; some relish the satisfaction of finally cracking a mission through learned tactics, while others lament the hours lost to unforgiving checkpoint systems. Environmental destruction adds strategic depth, allowing players to blast through walls or collapse structures on enemies, though these systems sometimes work against you when grenades destroy carefully positioned squad members. The expansion missions included in the freeware version escalate complexity further, testing even veteran commanders with multi-phase objectives across sprawling maps.

Technical Execution and AI Quirks

While ambitious for its era, the game shows its age through inconsistent AI behavior that remains its most criticized element. Squadmates occasionally misinterpret commands, freeze during complex maneuvers, or fail to react to obvious threats – flaws that can sabotage meticulously planned operations. These moments of artificial stupidity contrast sharply with the otherwise competent enemy AI that flanks, suppresses, and communicates effectively. Graphically, the game delivers functional but dated visuals, with character models showing limited animations while environments feature impressive draw distances for large-scale battles. The sound design stands stronger, with distinctive weapon reports and positionally accurate gunfire that helps locate unseen threats. The included mission editor empowers players to create new challenges, extending replayability for those who overcome the initial technical hurdles.

Verdict

Hidden and Dangerous remains a benchmark in tactical military simulations that rewards dedicated commanders willing to overlook its flaws. The freeware package offers tremendous value with its expansion content and mission editor, preserving a complex WWII experience that still feels uniquely demanding. While the frustrating AI and steep difficulty will deter casual players, those who persevere will discover a richly strategic gem that makes victory feel genuinely earned.