Commandos 2 – Men of Courage

Installation
If your computer has the AutoRun option activated, automatic installation will begin as soon as
you insert the first Commandos 2 CD into your CD drive.

If AutoRun is disabled, you'll need to select the option "Explore" on the icon of your CD unit with
the right mouse button (RMB) and run the EXE file "Setup.EXE" in the root directory of your CD.

The "Install Shield Wizard" will start, and the license window will appear. If you decide to accept
the terms, the next question will be "Where do you want to install Commandos 2?"

All the game files will be saved in the same folder, whose default route is:
\program files\Commandos2

But of course, you can change it as you wish.

Finally, you'll be asked if you want to install the DirectX 8.0 files. If you decide to do so and your
system already has them, they will not be reinstalled, although if necessary they will be upgraded.

If you have enough space on the hard disk, the game installation will start. When it is finished, if
you clicked "Yes" when asked about installing DirectX 8.0, the program will check your current
version of DirectX and decide whether to install it or not.

Depending on your operating system, you may have to restart your computer for the system to
acknowledge the changes made. It will tell you what to do in order to start training with your
Commandos as soon as possible.

UnInstaller
Remove and Repair: application that, before removing anything, will offer you the following three
options:

Modify: in case you want to change some of the options that you chose when installing.

Repair: checks the files in game folder and, if it encounters any problems, will try to fix
them by reinstalling the necessary files from the CD.

Remove: remove all the files you installed and change the registry file.

About the Game

The Missions
In Commandos 2: Men of Courage, you have to successfully take your men through a series of
missions inspired by events that took place during World War II. The missions have several
different objectives, new challenges and many possible approaches that will depend on your
tactics, skills and weapon dexterity. All the missions have at least one main objective: rescue,
espionage, assault or defend. Missions also include sub-objectives and clues that will take you
closer to your goal. If you don't complete your objectives or if you lose some of your team, you
will have to try again.
In creating Commandos 2: Men of Courage, we have tried to make an enjoyable game that is
more than just a faithful depiction of Commandos activity during World War II. So please note, if
your history book contradicts what you see in the game ... trust your history book.

Your Career in the Army

The Army life is a hard one and to excel you must complete the objectives set out before and
during the mission. Once you have completed a mission, you'll be able to move to the next one.
Each time you successfully finished a mission, you'll be assigned a number of points according to
your degree of success. The points are based on the number of secondary objectives
accomplished, the time it took you to finish, and the damage you received. Not being detected
and visiting areas of the map also influence your points. The number of enemies neutralized is
also a factor in scoring points. You get maximum points if you tie them up, fewer points if you kill
them with a knife and the fewest points of all if you kill them with a firearm.

As you progress through the missions, your points will continue to accumulate and your rank
should increase. When you start the gain you are the lowest rank. By the time the war ends, if
you have successfully completed the missions and displayed exemplary behavior you could attain
the rank of Field Marshall. Your honor and your character depend on how effective you are ...
and your pension depends on it too.

Assignment of Objectives

At the beginning of each mission you will receive brief instructions on what is expected of you and
your men. You will be given information in the following areas:

 The overall strategic situation

 The main mission objectives
 A tour of the enviroment, at which point you will be shown where the objectives can be
completed and the position of key areas. You’ll also receive some advice on the tactics
you should employ.

If you would rather skip the briefing, press the ‘ESC’ key at any point to start the mission. If you
need to check any of the objectives while in a mission, you can use the notebook in the interface.

The Puzzle

A selection of missions contains pieces of a puzzle. If you can collect these pieces and finish the
game, you may unlock special missions.

The pieces are scattered over the map. They could be found on the floor, and also inside boxes,
cabinets, enemy inventories, and anywhere items can be stored. The objects will be stored in a
table that you can access via an icon at the top of the interface.

Level of Difficulty

The objectives of the particular mission will not change even if the difficulty level is altered. The
differences you will experience from one difficulty level to the next will be in the behavior of your
enemies and the supply of tools and provisions.

For example, in normal difficulty, enemies will be less likely to leap into action and will take their
time recognizing and shooting and you. Your firearms have the longest range and shoot
extremely fast. Your enemies are more relaxed and their reaction times are far longer, giving you
a larger margin of error. If one of your commandos health levels dropped to zero, you can bring
him back from the brink of death by using any of the multiple first-aid kits you'll find. There is no
shortage of ammo and items and grenades and explosives have a larger damage radius.

In hard difficulty, you'll encounter more enemies, the range and speed of your firearms is
decreased in the time that it takes the enemies to react is faster. In any firearms are more
deadly, and when one of your man dies, there is no way to bring him back.

In very hard difficulty, the enemies react as soon as they see you, the range of their guns is the
longest and their shots even more deadly. First-aid kits and ammunition are in very short supply;
success could rely on a single bullet, so they must be used wisely. Just in case this isn't enough,
enemies recover from being knocked out by commandos far faster. Wine will also affect them for
a shorter period of time.

Some Geographic and Historic Concessions

We know that...

 There are no penguins in the Arctic

 The submarine bunkers at La Pallice in La Rochelle had more had more than three
hangers
 The bridge over the river quiet exists, but it is not made of wood and was never destroyed
 The statue of Buddha is not in India but in a temple in Kyoto, Japan
 The Shinano was sunk before entering into active combat
 There are no pirahnas in Asia, only in the Amazon River

The dates and historic events are based on real ones but have been adapted for gameplay
reasons. We maintain that you should always trust your history books -- -- this is a video game
after all!

Playing the Game

This section contains information regarding the core areas of Commandos 2. You will be given
information about your men, the weapons you will use throughout the missions and the various
tactics that will help you accomplish your objectives. Reading them does not guarantee your
success, but will help you recognize your options, rate the enemy's chances and anticipate the
different perils you'll have to face. Good luck and go for it.

Viewing the Environment

Moving the Camera

From the moment a mission starts you can freely scroll the camera around the whole external
environment. It is highly recommended that you do this prior to issuing orders. Doing this will
give you a better indication of the global situation.

You can use the cursor keys on the keyboard to move the on-screen cursor toward the screen
boundaries. When the screen stops moving you have reached the edge of the map. You can
reach every quarter of the map in a much faster way if you do the same movements described
while keeping the shift key pressed, or by pressing the "Alt" key and moving the mouse at the
same time.

Rotating the Camera

If you move the camera around the map, many of the areas will be hidden by houses, walls,
furniture or vegetation. To view the whole environment you must combine the normal moving
around the map with the three other camera angles.

If you keep the "Alt" key pressed and press the left arrow key or the left mouse button (LMB), the
camera will rotate in angles of 90 degrees to the left. Alternatively, if you press the right arrow
key or the right mouse button (RMB) while pressing the "Alt" key, the camera will rotate in angles
of 90 degrees to the right.

When inside buildings, passages and tunnels, you can rotate the camera in exactly the same way
as outside. The difference is that the camera rotation angle is free (i.e. not in 90 degree steps).
This will allow you to examine the interiors from the angle you desire.

Zooming in and out

You are able to change the zooming level of the map. Use the "-" to zoom out and observe a
larger area of the map. Alternatively press the "+" key to zoom in to view specific areas of the
environment.

Whenever you want to revert to to the default viewing scale, you can use the "+" and "-" she's
more press the "*" (asterisk) key on the numeric keypad.

Multiple Cameras

Sometimes your men or your targets will be scattered around at different points of the
environment. In positions like this you may want to keep track of what is happening at each of
these points without having to move the camera manually.

The multiple cameras function will divide your main screen into several window configurations
when you press the function keys from "F2" to "F7". This will allow you to coordinate the action at
different points. Please note that some of the function keys have alternating window
configurations: one configuration for one press and another for two presses.

Each section behaves as a completely independent window. You can select a window by clicking
on it with the LMB. The selected window will then be outlined in red. In this active window you
will be able to play the game with all its options and features.

To go back to the single window configuration, press the "F2" key. The active window at that
point will become the main viewing area and occupy the full-screen.

Enviroment Boundaries

The boundaries of every mission are marked by a shadowed zone which you cannot enter, cross
or affect anyway.

Locating the enemy and interactive elements

As explained in "Rotating the Camera" your camera position will determine the elements you can
see on the map. Press the "F11" key and a red outline will mark the position of all the enemies in
that area regardless of whether they are hidden or not.
In a similar way you can use the "F10" key to locate doors, ammunition, food, tools and other
supplies distributed around the scenery. When you press the key, every interactive element on
the map will be outlined in red.

These two functions are extremely useful as they provide information on the map and include
elements that may be hidden from you. It will help you plan your strategy far more effectively

The Game Interface

The interface is your command center. From here you'll control the game and give your men the
necessary orders to complete the mission. Moving the cursor over the interface options and
icons will the highlight the ones you are able to use in that particular situation. When you want to
use one of them, click the LMB on it or use its hotkey. If at any moment you need to use the
whole screen you can press the "~" key (the one directly below the "Esc" key). This will toggle
the interface on and off.

The Cursor

The "Arrow" cursor is your principal tool for controlling your commandos during the missions.
You can move the cursor around the screen with the mouse, executing an order with the LMB or
canceling it with the RMB. The cancel function will only work if the cancel is on the main viewing
area and not on the interface. The cursor is sensitive to the environment and will change when
placed over certain elements. If you press the "Shift" key as you move the cursor, you will see
how it changes to indicate the different actions you can perform. These include hiding, climbing,
and opening doors and boxes.

Enemy Field of View

Click on the "Enemy Eye" icon in the interface and you'll see the cursor change. When you click
on area of a map, a red marker is placed at that point. If any enemy soldiers can see that
position, the appropriate enemy fields of view are displayed.

Enemy fields of view are displayed as a colored triangular area. Avoid these areas as you will be
detected if you enter them.

The same cursor, when applied to a specific enemy soldier instead of to a particular point, will
display the field of view of that enemy. This will allow you to discover the area he has under his
surveillance.

Using this tool to observe the movements of the enemy soldiers will allow you to prepare your
strategy.

Map

Enemies = Red
Neutralized Enemies = Red
Allies and hidden Commandos Equipment = Blue
Items of Interest = Green

Clicking the LMB on the "map holder" icon will reveal a sketch of the mission map. You'll see
several points with various colors representing the different elements of the game, as well as a
rectangular box representing the area currently viewable on the screen.
If you click on any part of the sketch, both the rectangle and the viewable area will move to the
new position. Using this method allows you to immediately locate the areas you are interested in.

To put the map away, click the RMB on the "map holder" icon.

Assigning a Camera

Select the camera icon on the interface with the LMB. The cursor will change its form to that of a
camera. This indicates that you are now able to select any element of the gain, either still or
moving, and make it the focus of attention. This element is automatically kept in the center of the
screen until the function is deactivated.

When the element has been selected, a camera icon will appear in the bottom left corner of the
screen. Clicking the LMB on this icon will deactivate the camera.

You can combine this option would "multiple cameras" and assign different cameras to watch
different targets simultaneously. Each window can use only one camera, but remember that you
can have up to six windows open at anytime.

Notebook

If you're unsure about the mission objectives or about any of the objects in the game, you can
view the notebook. In that you will find detailed information on the mission, weapons, equipment
and techniques. A general help section is included to aid your success in the completion of more
difficult missions.

To view the pages of the notebook, click the LMB on the subject you want more information on.
You can alternatively click on the arrow icons located at the bottom of each page. While you're
using the notebook, the game will remain paused until you exit. This is done by clicking
anywhere on the screen with the RMB.

Help

During the gain you can also use the "?" Icon on the interface to get information regarding
elements contained in the environment. When you select this icon, the cursor will change to a
question mark, indicating that when you click the LMB over any element of the mission, the
notebook will automatically open on the page corresponding to that element.

To go back to the game and exit help mode, click the RMB anywhere over the environment.

Stamina, Oxygen And Body Temperature Indicators

Certain activities and areas will involve dangerous situations. Climbing and hanging has an
impact on your commando's physical condition that is displayed by a stamina indicator in the
interface. If the stamina bar reaches zero you're commando will run out of stamina and fall to the
floor. Damage incurred is proportional to the distance fallen.

The indicator will also display the amount of oxygen left while you're commando is swimming
underwater. Again, if the bar reaches zero the commando's health will decrease and he will
eventually drown.

When a commando is outdoors in the freezing temperatures of the Arctic without the proper
clothing, a body temperature bar is displayed. If the bar reaches zero, the commando's health
will fall and he will freeze to death unless you can get him somewhere warm.

Weapons, Tools And Items in the Backpack

The weapons, tools and items that each character has been trained to use can be controlled
through the interface. All characters can carry every item even if they are not trained to use
them. If this is the case the item will appear in the inventory but not in the interface. For
example, if the thief finds a mine and can pick it up and place it in his backpack, you will not see it
on his interface as he is not trained to use it. He can however pass it to the sapper and it will
appear in his interface as he is trained in the use of mines.

You have several empty spaces in your backpack at the beginning of each mission. You'll be
able to use these spaces to hold items you find along your exploration of the mission. Space in
the backpack is limited. Clicking the RMB on the commando face in the bottom right corner of the
screen opens your backpack/inventory. This displays the number of items you are currently
carrying in the space you have left.

Crawl, Stand up or Exit from ...

Clicking the "crawl/stand up" icon will toggle between walking or needing to crawl to avoid the
enemy in certain situations.

Crawling will allow your commandos and other characters to move around and avoid being
detected in the outer view range of the enemy field of view.

If you decide to walk, your commandos will be able to move faster but will be easily spotted by
the enemies at any other ranges of their field of view. Please note that the faster you move, the
more noise you produce you can be heard when walking if you are very close to an enemy
soldier. Crawling is far less noisy than walking or running.

When you're getting in or out of the vehicle or you're in hiding place, the icon on the interface will
change to show an exit sign instead of the "crawl/stand up" icon. Click on it with the LMB to exit
from the vehicle or from your hideout and move back into the environment.

Examine

The "examine" icon on the commando interface has different uses, all of them of great
assistance. Click on the icon with the LMB and a cursor will change to magnifying lens graphic.
If you then move the lens over the environment you'll notice that it changes depending on which
element it is currently over.

If you click on bid or bound enemy soldiers, allies, boxes or cupboards, your commandos
inventory will be displayed as well as a graphic of the soldier's backpack or the object's contents.
You can then easily select and transfer items to and fro by clicking the LMB on the item you want
to move.

The "Examine" ability has an important strategic function. The game involves both the interior
and exterior of buildings. Therefore, your viewable area will not always be capable of displaying
what you would find when using a door or climbing a ladder. If you are inside the building and
click the LMB on a window in examine mode, the external view will be displayed. Enemy soldiers
in the area are outlined in red. When you want to return to the interior view, click the RMB on any
part of the screen.

If you are inside a building and want to move carefully, click the "examine" icon and click the LMB
on doors, trap doors and ladders. A window will pop up in the top left corner of the screen. You
can move the view angle by moving the mouse left and right. To exit of this mode and regain
control of your commando, click the RMB anywhere on the screen.
In some missions you'll discover switches that activate and deactivate electrified fences, floodlit
areas and doors. If you click on them while in examine mode, a window will pop of displaying the
element the switch will activate.

Attack mode

When the enemy attacks on several flanks, attack mode will provide a method of placing your
men at different defensive points. To activate this mode, the commando must have a firearm
selected. When you select the commando's attack mode, he will remain stationary at that point in
a field of view will be displayed. Many enemies that enter the area will be shot until killed for until
the soldier runs out of ammunition.

To change the field of view direction, hold down the "CTR L." key and click the RMB in the
direction you want the commando to face. Allied soldiers will place their backpacks in front of
themselves for protection. If you change an Allied soldiers direction, his backpack will remain in
its original position. You can use this feature two protect an area different to the direction in
which the soldiers are facing.

Some firearms have limited ammunition, so be careful not to leave your men unprotected when
they run out of bullets or they will be killed.

Health bar

This orange bar indicates your general health level. At the beginning of each mission it will
always be full. As the mission progresses you may be shot, fall, suffer from lack of oxygen when
swimming underwater or freeze in Arctic conditions. When these instances occur the health bar
will diminish, indicating your increasingly precarious situation.

Fortunately you'll have the opportunity to regenerate the health level of your commandos when
you find a first-aid kit or a tin a of food in houses or other areas in the mission. If your health bar
continues to decrease in you fail to find the means to regenerate your commandos health, he will
soon die. Should this happen a skull will appear on the interface to remind you of the unfortunate
end your soldier has met. The

Your character

An image of the currently selected commando appears in the bottom right corner of the screen.
His expression and comments aid you in quickly recognizing his current health status and
whether he is able to carry out your orders.

The Backpack/Inventory

This is where your commandos store all the objects they have found during the mission. These
can include weapons, ammo, food and enemy uniforms. As you play the game you'll find
alternate ways of opening your backpack. The easiest way is to click the RMB on the face of the
character in the interface.

Description
The backpack is displayed as a box divided into sections that indicate the limits on the number of
objects that your commandos can carry. For icons above the box, from left to right, are: exit,
exchange, examine and use. To select an option, click the LMB on it.

Uses
The most common use of the backpack is to store objects or exchange them with another
character in the mission. To select items in a different backpack, click "examine" and search the
contents box, cabinet, enemy or ally. In this way the contents of both backpacks will open
simultaneously. Click on the item you want to move with the LMB and click again when you want
to place it in an empty space.

If the background color of the section turns blue, the item will occupy no extra room, so it can
share space within item you already possess. This is very useful especially with ammunition and
weapons of the same kind.

If the background color turns green, there is space for this object and you can store in your
backpack.

If the background color turns red, there is no space in the backpack for that object. This can
occur if the backpack reaches capacity or the objects the currently possess have been arranged
inefficiently.

You can also picked up items directly from the environment without having to open your
backpack. Hold down the "CTR L." key and click on the item with the LMB.

To exchange objects with other characters, move your commando near another and use the
examine the ability on the interface. The faces of the characters nearby will appear at the top of
the screen above your backpack. Choose the "use" option and click on the face of the character
you want to exchange items with; his backpack will open. To exchange objects, click on the item
you want to move with the LMB and click again when you want to place it in an empty space.

Some items can be combined. For instance, sleeping pills combined with wine will knock out
enemy soldiers. Choose one object with the LMB and click the one you want to combine it with.

Selecting Characters

Individual Selection

To give your Commandos orders, you must first select them. Click the RMB on one of your
Commandos. An outline will appear around that commando and his interface will appear. Your
view of the commando might be obscured by a building, tree or wall. To combat this, each
commando has been assigned a number on the keyboard. By pressing the appropriate number,
you can select that commando. If you press the number twice in quick succession, the screen
will center on his position.

Once you have selected a commando you can been click the LMB on his face in the bottom right
corner of the screen. This will display images of all the other Commandos in that particular
mission and their current health status at the top of your screen. If more than four Commandos
are present, you can scroll left or right to view the others using the mouse or the cursor keys. If
you click the LMB on any of the faces, you'll select that character. When you do not want to have
any Commandos selected, press a number key.

Multiple Selection

When you want to perform in action involving more than one of your Commandos, you'll need to
form a selection box. To do this, press and hold the RMB. Drag the cursor in a diagonal direction
to create a blue rectangular box around the Commandos you want to select. Once you release
the RMB, all Commandos in the box will be selected.
You can also select multiple Commandos by first selecting one commando and then, while
holding down the "CTR L." Key, clicking on another character with the RMB. If you repeat this
method with a commando who is already selected, it will deselect him.

Releasing Hostages

Liberate hostages by approaching one with a commando. Press the "shift" key and move the
cursor over the hostage. The cursor will change to the talk icon. Click the LMB and the hostage
will be released and can be controlled in the same way as your Commandos.

Selecting Allied Soldiers

You can select an Allied soldier if you have spoken to him with one of your Commandos. Lupin
cannot speak with the allies as he is not of sufficient rank.

Once one of your Commandos has spoken with an Allied soldier, the soldier can be selected by
clicking on him with the RMB. Alternatively, you can hold down the RMB and drag a box around
the soldier or soldiers you want to select. Any soldier within the box will be selected.

Moving Around the Map

Walk, Run, Stick to Walls and Move Between Levels

To move your Commandos, click the LMB once on the desired location. Commandos selected
will walk to that point. If you want them to run to that point, double-click the LMB and they will go
to the target as quickly as possible. While running will save time, your haste will create far more
noise than walking or crawling. Be wary: if you're target location is far away the Commandos
selected will choose the fastest route, which could mean running into enemy soldiers.

The scenarios are full of enemy soldiers, but your Commandos have a vast range of skills to
avoid detection. To avoid being spotted in an enemy's outer view range, make your Commandos
stick to a wall by clicking the LMB on the desired wall. When Commandos are sticking to a wall,
clicking on the base of the wall in either direction allows them to move but remain out of sight.

Inside buildings your Commandos can move from level to level using stairs. Note that the cursor
will change if placed over stairs, indicating the ability to move upstairs or downstairs. Click the
LMB on the stairs and you will ascend or descend. Commandos are able to do this both standing
and crawling.

Swim, Dive And Surface

All your men know how to swim and dive. Click the LMB on an area of water and the commando
will enter it. If the commando approaches the water in a standing position, he will dive head-first
into the water, creating a loud splash that can alert the enemy. If you want the character to enter
the water quietly, command him to crawl to the edge, then click the LMB on the water and he will
enter it in silence. You can either select the crawl icon or press the "spacebar".

Once in the water, your commando will swim with a minimum of noise when you click the LMB
once on the desired target location. If you require more speed, double-click the LMB and the
commando will swim to the target at a far greater pace. Again faster but far noisier!

If the water is of sufficient depth, your Commandos can swim underwater. This allows them to
avoid enemy detection and find alternate paths through the mission. The ability to dive is
indicated by the appearance of the dive icon on the Commandos control panel. If you click on
this icon the commando will submerge and an oxygen bar will appear indicating how long he can
stay underwater. If the bar reaches zero, the Commandos health bar will decrease and his facial
animation will turn green, indicating that he is drowning. Commandos have individual attributes;
this is obvious when swimming as Commandos can stay underwater for varying lengths of time.

To surface for air, click on the surface icon in the commando interface. The oxygen bar will then
fill until completely replenished. If you dive prior to the bar being completely filled, your
commando will dive with that amount of air.

While submerge, click on the "look above" icon to allow your commando to look above the water
to use his surroundings. Note that the oxygen bar will continue to decrease as your commando's
nose is still underwater.

If you want to exit the water, click the LMB on the water's edge and the commando will crawl out
onto dry land. If you double-click, the commando will stand up and run to the target location.

The only commando who can stay submerged for an indefinite amount of time is the diver, who
uses diving equipment. He is also the only commando who can defend himself underwater as his
harpoon gun offers protection from sharks, walrus and crocodiles, but unfortunately not against
piranha. While submerged the diver is also able to disarm enemy mines and fight enemy divers.
Hiding in shoals of fish is a highly recommended way for the diver to avoid detection.

Activated Access

Commandos can move around the exteriors and interiors of buildings, aircraft, warships, tunnels,
passages, rivers and seas. They can also move around the network of doors, stairs, ladders,
windows and tunnels, but some of these must be activated before you can gain entry. Hold down
the "shift" key and move the cursor to the point where you want to enter. The cursor will change
when you find a point that allows commando interaction. Press the "F10" key to highlight all
these points.

Doors, Windows, Trap Doors And Ladders

To walk through a door you must first ascertain if the door is unlocked. This is done by pressing
the shift key and moving the cursor over the door. If the door is indeed unlocked, and "enter" icon
will appear. Alternatively, if the door is locked a similar icon will appear but with a no entry sign
around it.

To open a locked door, you'll have to command the thief to enter the building and unlock the door
from inside. If you need to open the door quickly you can command the green beret to knock
down the door. However, this method is very noisy.

Some doors require a special key. You'll see that when you attempt to enter a security door
without a key. A blue icon will appear indicating the need to find the correct key. Not even the
green beret can knock down doors that require a special key.

Before entering a room, it's highly recommended that you look inside first. Click the "examine"
icon to the left of the selected Commando’s face, and click the LMB on the opening you want to
look through. A small screen will appear in the top left corner showing the contents of the interior.
If you press the LMB you'll enter the room; if you press the RMB you'll exit this view. If you look
through an opening leading outdoors, the screen will switch to the exterior view. You are able to
move around, zoom in an out and rotate the camera in this view. If you want to use the opening,
click the LMB and the commando will exit. To leave this view, click the RMB. These rules apply
to all openings, from doors and windows to tunnels and trap doors.
If the thief is looking in through a window, you can order him to enter via the window by clicking
the LMB. If the green beret is looking out through a window, you can order him to job. The
higher the window the more damage the drop will cause. If you are not looking out of a window,
you can perform an emergency evasion by double-clicking the LMB on the window. The green
beret will run and jump out of it

To make things easier, when you enter a building all enemies contained within it are outlined in
red. You can also press the "F11" key to show the enemies. All enemies on screen will be
outlined even if they are in a different room or on a different floor. In the interiors, use the stairs
and ladders to move from floor to floor. If you hover the cursor over stairs, the icon will indicate
that you can use them by clicking the LMB.

Ladders work in much the same way as the stairs. Hover the cursor over a ladder and the icon
will change to inform you if a click of the LMB is sufficient. While you are climbing ladders you
can stop the commando in mid-climb by clicking the RMB. If you click the RMB again, the
commando will drop to the floor. The damage sustained due to the fall is proportional to the
height of drop.

You can change direction on a ladder by clicking the LMB above or below the commando to
make him go up or down. This is highlighted by the cursor changing shape when above and
below the commando.

While you are climbing the ladder the stamina bar will appear and start to decrease. If it reaches
zero, the commando will fall to the floor and any damage sustained will be proportional to the
drop.

Holes and Hiding Places

Thanks to his small frame and agility, the thief can sneak around and hide in very small places,
including cupboards and under beds and tables. This allows him to assume extremely
advantageous positions that will aid the path to victory.

The thief can use holes in walls as entry points to buildings. Press the "shift" key and hold the
cursor over the hole. If the thief can enter the hole, the cursor will change to indicate possible
entry. Clicking the LMB on the hole allows the thief to enter and cross to the other side.

The thief can also utilize hiding places hold down the "shift" key and place the cursor over
possible hiding places. If the hiding place is suitable the cursor will change in the thief can hide.
Press the "shift" key and click the LMB on the hiding place. While in a hiding place the thief is
safe from all enemies. The drawbacks that he is unable to participate in any way. To exit the
hiding place, click any mouse button.

Special passages that all the commandos can use exist above and below ground. To use them,
press the "shift" key and move the cursor over the passage. Click the LMB on it to enter. You
can alternatively press the "F10" key to see items and doors you can access in the current
screen.

Climb Posts and Swing Along Wires

Posts and cables are another path can choose to aid in the completion of the mission. Once up
up pole you may be able to access windows you were previously unable to reach. While you're at
the top of a post or hanging from a wire, enemy soldiers will be unable to see you. The enemy
will not see you again until you run out of strength and fall or descend from the pole.

Only the green beret and the thief can climb the posts and swing along the wires. The sniper can
also climb posts but cannot swing across the wires.
To climb a post, select any commando who has that ability, press the "shift" key and click the
LMB on the post you want to climb. Once the commando is at the top he will swing at the top and
stay there until told to do otherwise. If you have selected the sniper, he will climb to the top and
grip the post with his legs so his hands are free for his rifle.

As with stealing a ladder, direction can be affected when you're climbing poles. Once on the
pole, hold the cursor above or below the commando and click the LMB to alter his direction. This
is also displayed in arrow form by the cursor.

When hanging from a wire you can swing along it by placing the cursor to the left or right of the
commando and clicking the LMB. To stop swinging across, click the RMB. If you then want to
drop to the floor, click the RMB again. The circle directly underneath a commando swinging
along a wire indicates where he would land should he fall or should you choose to descend.
Once you commence with the climb, a stamina bar appears and begins to decrease. If the bar
reaches zero you will fall.

Taking and leaving items

There are weapons, ammunition and provisions scattered around the maps that your commandos
are able to collect and use. You can find these items in cupboards and wardrobes and can also
take them from enemy soldiers.

To pick up an item, press the "shift" key, and place the cursor over the item. The cursor will
change to a hand icon if you're able to pick it up. If that's the case, click the LMB. The
commando will pick up the item and place it in his backpack. You can alternatively press the
"F10" key to show items you can interact with in the current screen.

If you want to carry a box or barrel, you can only use the green beret. These items are far too
large and heavy to place in your backpack, and you will also lose the ability to run. When walking
and carrying a large item, clicking the RMB will cancel the walk action. Once you have reached
the desired location, click the RMB to drop the item.

You can pick up the bodies of dead or bound enemy soldiers in the same way as picking up
larger items. You cannot pick up enemy soldiers until they have been tied up or have been killed.
Press the "shift" key and click the LMB on the soldier. Once you have reached the desired
location, click the RMB to drop the burden.

You can dispose of bodies by throwing the amount of windows, into tall grass or at sea. All the
commandos can carry enemy soldiers' bodies, but the ability to run is disabled for all commandos
during this time.

If your backpack is full when you attempt to pick up another item, but icon will appear indicating
that you cannot pick up the item. If your backpack is already open and you attempt to place more
items into it, a red highlight will indicate that you have no more room. You could try to reorganize
your backpack to create more space. You could also leave items you currently have on the floor
to make space for other items you have just found. To do this, click the LMB on the item you
want to leave and then click again outside the inventory area. The item will be left at your feet as
you may want to pick it up later.

Throwing Items

Your Commandos can throw objects in an attempt to distract the enemy. A packet of cigarettes
or bottle of wine can prove a tempting sight to enemy soldiers, who may then leave their post
offering you an opportunity to sneak past or maybe even sneak up on them!
Click the item you want to throw from the menu. Once it is selected, click the LMB on the desired
target. These items can be thrown a limited distance.

If you are too far away the cursor will clearly indicate this and you'll have to get closer to the
target. You can retrieve the item from the floor or from the enemy soldier's backpack once he has
been knocked out or killed.

The sapper can throw grenades. In the control panel with the LMB and click the LMB on the
desired spot where you would like the grenade to explode. You can also throw grenades through
doors, windows and trap doors. Grenades have a minimum and maximum distance. Use them
wisely as they will kill everyone in the surrounding area.

Switches in Missions

You'll find electrified fences, floodlit areas and doors activated by switches. You can first examine
what effect the switch will have prior to operating it. This is done by selecting the "examine" icon
in the control panel and clicking the on the switch. A small window will appear indicating what
effect the switch will have.

To use the switch, pressed the "shift" key and click the LMB on the switch. A small window will
appear displaying the effect the switch has caused.

The Characters
When playing Commandos 2, you are the official responsible for a very special group of
characters. They are all exceptional and have been thoroughly trained for missions behind
enemy lines. Additionally, each one has special skills that you will have the chance to exploit
when assigning orders during the missions.

It is also extremely important to know your enemies, and is especially helpful when planning your
tactics.

The Commandos
Jerry "Tiny" McHale (Green Beret)

Born in Dublin on the 10th of October 1909, McHale was the heavyweight champion of the Army
boxing league from 1934 to 1937 consecutively. He was sentenced by a military jury to 14 years
hard labor after knocking out an official, superior in rank. He was pardoned when he accepted
the offer to join the Commandos group.

He was promoted to the rank of Sergeant after the battle of the Vaagso Island, where after being
shot in the arm, isolated from his unit and without using a single firearm, he sneaked into a
bunker and killed the 16 enemy soldiers inside before returning to the Allied frontline.

He is very aggressive and reluctant to accept orders. This is a real problem for his superiors in
the nightmare for his enemies.

Skills: "Tiny" is the biggest member of the group and his tremendous strength allows him to fight,
knock out and tie the enemies very quickly. He is able to knock down virtually every door, jump
from incredible heights, climb holes and swing along wires. He is also the second fastest runner
of the Commandos group and his amazing stamina allows him to withstand flesh wounds and
gunshots that would kill any other soldier.
His preferred lethal weapons are his knife and his bare hands. He can use both in deadly
combinations especially when he uses the elements of surprise. His enemies don't stand a
chance.

Rene "Spooky" Duchamp (Spy)

Born in Lyon, France on the 20th of November 1911, Duchamp joined the French Secret Service
when he was 25 years old. He served as security chief at the French Embassy in Berlin, where
he learned relevant information about several members of the Hitler staff. At the start of the war,
he joined the French army and became one of the main active leaders of the French resistance.
He has often been a valuable team member of the Commandos group and on many occasions
has been a vital help when planning covert assault operations.

His knowledge of the tactics and personalities of the German military has repeatedly proved its
use for the English Secret Service.

Skills: "Spooky" speaks several languages fluently and has a natural instinct for imitation. These
talents are invaluable on his missions as a secret agent. One of his most common assignments
is to infiltrate enemy lines wearing a stolen enemy uniform and divert, deceive or give deceptive
orders to enemy soldiers. His attack involves silent and cautious movements and he attempts to
use minimum force if possible.

His preferred weapon is a syringe loaded with a lethal poison that will eliminate his enemies
quickly and silently.

Thomas "Inferno" Hancock (Sapper)

Hancock was born in Liverpool on the 14th of January 1911. He took a degree in chemistry at 22
and joined the firefighters where he specialized as an expert in high-risk explosives. In 1939 he
joined the Army and one year later joined the Commandos group as a volunteer. His profound
knowledge of developing and planting explosives has resulted in a string of successful missions.
During the assault on St. Nazare he was responsible for the controlled explosions that flooded the
harbor buildings and killed numerous German enemies.

Skills: "Inferno" is an expert in calculating, placing in developing explosives. The materials he

carries in his backpack are sensitive but heavy, forcing him to move slowly and preventing him
from entering water. He can operate other weapons, such as grenades, bazookas,
flamethrowers and mine detectors. He can detect and deactivate mines for years at a later time.
He can form minefields in areas where enemies and their vehicles will pass.

James "Fins" Blackwood (Diver)

Blackwood was born in Australia on the 3rd of August 1911. He joined the Navy where his ability
to swim and row greatly accelerated his promotion to the rank of Captain. Two years later, has
aggressive character and repeated disobedience were to blame for his demotion to the rank of
private within the Commandos group. In 1943 he was honored with the Military Cross after his
heroic evacuation of 45 men from the beach of Dunkirk after it had been taken by the enemy.

Skills: "Fins" is a specialist trained for aquatic-based missions. With his harpoon gun and diving
equipment he is able to spend hours underwater without worrying about oxygen supply or the
danger he may encounter at sea.

On land he has complete mastery of throwing knives and carries a grappling hook that he uses to
silently climb buildings, walls and trees.

Sid "Tread" Perkins (Driver)

This tough soldier was born on the fourth of April 1910 in Brooklyn, USA. Little is known of the
rest of his life but in 1937 he traveled to the UK and joined the British army. While cooperating
with the Foreign Office, he investigated and tested weapons and vehicles taken from enemy
armies. During this time he met Paddy Maine, who convinced him to join the Commandos group.

In 1942 he appeared in all the British newspapers when during the course of the assault on the
Tamet Aerodrome he ran out of ammunition and decided to ram his vehicle against the target.
The explosion that destroyed the first airplane produced a chain reaction that demolished most of
the Aerodrome with astonishing results.

Skills: "Tread" enjoys fighting the enemy and can drive any vehicle. His regular tools of choice
are gas bombs, smoke bombs, hunting traps and cable to make traps, to name but a few.

Sir Francis T. "Duke" Woolridge (Sniper)

Woolridge was born in Sheffield, England, on the 21st of March 1909, into one of the more
influential families of the British aristocracy. Known among his colleagues as "Duke", he is an
excellent sniper. His cool temperament and self-control allowed him to shoot and kill the chief
commander of the German army with a single shot, at a distance of over a mile, during the Narvik
invasion.

Skills: "Duke" is cool and self-controlled. All his actions are perfectly calculated. Considered one
of the best snipers in the world, he very rarely wastes a bullet. His most common missions
involve clearing a path for his colleagues and eliminating concealed enemies. He will stand
behind windows, poles or other objects that offer shelter while he provides cover for the
advancing commando troops.

Natasha "Seductress" Nicochevski (Resistance Operative)

Born in Kiev, Ukraine, on the 21st of April 1912, Nicochevski is the daughter of an aristocrat from
the Netherlands and a Russian Dame exiled after the 1917 revolution. According to her political
convictions, she joined the resistance and her father's country in 1943. She combines this activity
with occasional missions with the commandos.

Skills: "Seductress" speaks several languages as her alias shows. She is a fascinating woman
but extremely deadly. She is always ready to distract the enemy by combining fluent
conversation with an appropriate costume and the help of her lipstick. She is not especially
aggressive but is perfectly able to assist the commandos when necessary. She is a remarkably
good sniper, as "Duke" will attest.

Paul "Lupin" Toledo (Thief)

Born in Paris, France on the first of March 1916, Toledo is a recent addition to the group of
commandos. When the Germans invaded Paris he decided to start his own one-man war,
entering every house occupied by the Germans and stealing every Germans satchel within his
reach. In 1940 he stole Rene Duchamp's suitcase, thinking he was a German officer. He was
greatly surprised when he found important documents inside the suitcase in decided to put them
into the hands of the French resistance. From that moment he was recommended by "Spooky" to
the commandos and has been a great help ever since.

Skills: "Lupin" is the smallest and fastest of all the commandos. His tiny frame is more than
compensated for by his agility to access the small areas, break into houses, climb poles, pick
locks and exhibit a host of other talents. This allows him to break through enemy lines via
avenues other men wouldn't even consider. He has mastered several martial arts and enjoys
stalking and picking the pockets of enemy soldiers. He can also opened doors and safes with his
tools.

"Lupin" has a pet rat, "Spike", that he has trained to divert the enemy. His most common
methods consist of allowing other commandos to access buildings. He can enter buildings
through windows and holes. Once inside, he opens doors with his tools and keys stolen from
Germans he encounters on his way.

"Whiskey"

"Whisky" grew up in the New York submarine shipyard and became the mascots of the
submergible E-423 in 1941. During an incursion into the North Sea, the ship was captured by a
German patrol and taken to the base of La Pallice on the French Coast. After after "Whiskey's"
owner died, "Lupin" looked after him and he joined the commandos group.

Skills: "Whiskey" diverts enemies by barking and running around them. He carries small objects
from one commando to another, crossing through fields containing enemies. With his keen sense
of smell he can detect mines, although he cannot deactivate them. He cannot climb ladders, but
any commando can put Whiskey in his backpack and carry him around.

Special Characters
In addition to the main characters described above, in certain missions you will count on the help
of Allied characters such as United States soldiers, Ghurkas, the French Resistance, a Hindu
spiritual leader, an exceptional prisoner by the name of Guinness and Wilson, the shipwrecked
sailor of a not-so-abandoned island, who will help you divert the enemy.

The Enemy
You are already familiar with your men and some of their abilities. This section reveals imported
facts about your enemies. In different missions you will deal with German and Japanese soldiers.
Although their behavior is similar, studying their weak points will help you gain the advantage and
be able to defeat them on their own soil.

Enemy soldiers can see and hear your men. They can also be alerted by other soldiers or by
alarms. The if they see a corpse or something suspicious or hear an explosion, they will stare at
this point and become more vigilant about investigating anything that may happen. It will be
some time before they relax again.

General Behavior

Enemies will normally remain at their posts watching over a zone, busy with some activity or
patrolling a particular area. When alerted, some of them will stay in their positions, but many will
rush toward the point where something suspicious has occurred. You can find out which enemies
will leave their posts by using the binoculars to observe them.

Military Rank

There are three enemy ranks: soldiers, corporals and officers. Their main difference is in the
success of the Spy has when issuing . orders disguised as the enemy. His orders will be
accepted far more easily by the lower rank the enemies than by the corporals. The officers will
always recognize "Spooky" and "Seductress" in their short-range area (see below). The SS
officers will tell them apart immediately, even when they are disguised.

Field of View
Enemy site consists of the triangular area divided into two parts. These parts are the short-range
area and long-range area. In the long-range area of their sight, enemy soldiers will not see your
men immediately. It will take them awhile if your men are standing, and they will not see your
men at all that the commandos are crawling. Your men will also be oblivious to the enemy if they
are disguised, under a shadow or against a wall.

During night missions enemies can see your men if they move into the beam of a lamp or
floodlight.

When one or several enemies see one of your men, a blueline is drawn to show who has
detected him. The enemy will now consider whether he is friend or foe. If after a period of time
(long or short depending on the difficulty level you have chosen), you haven't moved the
commando from that area, the enemy soldier(s) will eventually recognize him. The line will turn
from blue to red and the soldiers will chase your man.

If you throw a packet of cigarettes or a bottle of wine, an orange line will indicate who has
detected it and may go to get it.

When enemy sniper means that one of your men with his rifle, a crosshair icon will appear over
your man's head as the sniper prepares to shoot. If you don't run for cover, your commando will
be killed. Remember that the icon will not tell you where the sniper is located. You will have to
act quickly and hope you run in the right direction.

Alerted Status

When enemy's field of view is green, he is relaxed and will tend to occupy himself with his own
normal duties -- -- things he'll keep doing as long as nothing arouses his suspicion.

If the area is red, the enemy is clearly alert. This means that he will react immediately if he sees
any of your men. If you wait a sufficient period of time, the enemy will return to his duties.

Weapons

Each enemy uses a weapon according to his rank. The corporals and officers use regulation
pistols. The soldiers have rifles and machine guns

Some enemies dressed as civilians do not carry weapons but are able to defend themselves with
their bare hands. These are workers, executives and sailors. They are not a great danger for
you but they could sound the alarm and the real problems will begin. Some mechanics where
flameproof suits and are resistant to flamethrowers, but not to your guns.

Special Units

Elite snipers use precision rifles. They can see farther and they can see your men even if they
are lying on the ground. At long distances they will undoubtedly use their rifles and, when close
enough, they will use their pistols, which are less powerful than rifles but more effective at close
range.

The grenadier corps of the German army are a fearsome foe as they can throw grenades when
outside and also through windows. A single grenade can kill all your Commandos if they are in
the same room. Be very careful if you see a German grenadier.

When underwater, you may encounter groups of divers with harpoon guns. The range of their
weapons is limited but they can be very dangerous.
Enemies also take lookout positions and can be equipped with binoculars. They can spot you
from a great distance and rapidly advise the guns to shoot at your position.

There are posts with heavy machine guns guarding strategic areas. If you can take control of
these points you can turn the guns against your enemy.

The Patrols

Patrols consist of several soldiers in formation and commanded by an officer. They make vigilant
rounds and serve as escorts. When an alarm sounds they enlarge their normal routes to cover
larger areas that will make your mission more difficult.

Some patrols can arrest your men and take them to prison. You will then have to rescue them so
that you can complete your mission. If a patrol attempts to arrest you, don't resist them are you
will be shot. If you do decide to run, make sure that you can get away.

Obtaining Information and Resources from the Enemy

Use the binoculars to get additional information about the enemy, such as type of gun, health
level and if they will leave their position.

Inspect the bodies of dead or bound to enemies as you may find valuable items. You can
salvage their weapons, ammunition, explosive materials, uniforms and special items such as
codes or keys.

The weapons that you take from enemies have limited ammunition and uniforms will disguise
your men for a limited amount of time. Consequently you should try obtaining as many of these
items as possible.

Ways the Enemy Can Be Alerted

Enemies can see you, hear you and follow your footprints on the snow or sand. If they encounter
bound comrades or find a dead soldier they can sound the alarm. And enemy will do everything
he can you find you during a certain period of time before going back to his normal duties.

Doberman guard dogs can see you and will bark while attacking you, attracting the enemy.

Wild animals will attack both you and your enemies. If you are skillful enough you can use wild
animals to your advantage to attack your enemies.

Enemy Vehicles

The enemy has various types of vehicles which they use to dramatic effect. Your Commandos
can assume control of these vehicles but not if they are occupied by enemy soldiers. You can
alternatively destroy the vehicles with the rocket launchers, bombs, anti-tank mines and
bazookas.

The best method is to find vehicles that are not currently manned by the enemy.

Equipment
To use or activate some of the objects you'll encounter on your mission, you'll have to click on
them with the LMB. Depending on the type of object it is, the action can execute immediately or
not, as in the case of some weapons were the cursor will change its shape so that you can then
use it as a target. The cursor may sometimes show a "Forbidden" sign, indicating that this action
cannot be performed with the place or object that you were pointing to.

Some tools, like the decoy, can be activated remotely. After you place these objects, you can
move away and activate them from a safe distance. Other objects are also available that you can
use to distract or deceive the enemy. Your men are well-trained and experienced specialists and
you will very seldom encounter problems using weapons and equipment.

Objects Selected with One Click

You can select all the objects in this category by clicking on the corresponding interface icon.
Once selected, that item can then be used by the current character.

Changing Uniform

All characters except for "Whiskey" have a normal uniform that they pack away while disguised
as enemies.

Enemy Uniform

All commandos are able to use an enemy uniform. The most common way to obtain an enemy
uniform is to steal it off an enemy's back. Once an enemy is knocked out or killed, you can
examine his inventory and take his clothes. By wearing the uniform, commandos will escape the
long-range view of enemies (except SS officers), as long as they do not act suspiciously.

Corporal's and Officer's Uniforms

The spy alone can take advantage of these uniforms. When in possession of a corporal or
officer's uniform, he will convince the enemy that he is one of them.

Diving Equipment

When you click on the diving equipment, the diver will put on his wetsuit and oxygen tank that
allow him to spend hours underwater.

Snow equipment

It is absolutely essential that you wear this special equipment in the extreme colds of the Arctic in
order to survive. Each character has his own snow uniform but in case he loses it or doesn't find
it, he can try to obtain one from an enemy backpack. Unfortunately, enemy snow clothing only
lasts for a limited time.

Natasha's Clothing

Seductress changes her look and dress often during a mission. Every time you click this icon,
she will decide what clothing is appropriate for the occasion and dress in it. It may well be a
Chinese costume or a German secretary's dress. She can walk around scenarios rife with
German enemies without arousing suspicion.

Release "Whiskey"

"Whiskey" enjoys traveling inside the commandos backpacks and wants to go wherever the rest
of your men go. If you want to place Whiskey on the ground, click his icon on the interface.

Whistle
This is the instru boxer's and ment that all commandos use to call Whiskey when he's needed.

Tinned Food

You can find food in cupboards and closets, inside buildings and wherever enemies keep their
provisions. All commandos will need food supplies sooner or later to regenerate their health
levels.

"Whiskeys" Bark

A loud bark from Whiskey will attract the attention all people nearby, giving your men a golden
opportunity to take advantage of the distraction.

Objects That Can Be Placed on the Scenery

All the following objects can be left or dropped on the scenery. Select the object on the interface
and the cursor will change. Place the new cursor over the target spot and click the LMB to throw
it. If the cursor shows a "Forbidden" icon, try to decrease the distance to where you want to
throw it. To cancel this action, press the RMB anywhere on the scenery.

Cigarettes

Tobacco is a rare commodity during wartime. If you are lucky you'll find a packet inside a house
or steal some from the enemy. Your men can throw the cigarettes to a certain point in an attempt
to entice enemy guards away from their positions.

Fish Food

The diver and green beret can hide from danger went swimming underwater by camouflaging
themselves in large shoals of fish. They place fish food in the water to attract the fish, who then
form a wall around them. The fish will move with the swimmer, hoping to receive more food.

Decoy

To use a decoy you need the major model Phillips L. 12 and the switch that activates it. All the
Commandos know how to operate the decoy. It is used to attract enemies by emitting a loud
noise that the enemy then investigates.

Bottle

Five bottles of wine in places where the enemy keep their provisions. As with cigarettes, the
enemy will seldom resist the temptation of grasping a bottle of wine and drinking all of it. The
effect will put him to sleep for a while. If you fill the bottle with sleeping pills the enemy will sleep
until someone wakes him up.

Dog Food

If you put some sleeping pills in the dog food it will turn a green color. You can then feed it to
enemy dogs and put them to sleep. Later, you can recover the pills and use them again.

Remote Bomb

This powerful explosive can be detonated by remote control. The only person who dares to use
its is the sapper.

Trap
The driver is in charge of studying the movements of the enemy and placing traps in the
environment. Traps, deadly to those who step on them, can be put anywhere -- -- the enemy will
never notice them. Another good thing about traps is that the driver can always recover a trap
and use it again.

Cable Trap

The cable trap is one of the more sophisticated wartime tools that the driver uses. The cable is
extended across narrow passages and corridors. Select one point of a wall with the cursor: this is
where the cable will be tied. Then select a point for the other end. Once the cable is pulled tight
the driver retreats and hides in a secure place to enjoy the show.

"Spike" The Rat

Spike is the thief's friend and obeys only his wishes. He has trained Spike so that when you
select a specific spot on the scenery with the "rat cursor", Spike runs there and performs a couple
of somersaults to attract the enemy's attention. When he's finished, Spike runs back to the thief.

Anti-Tank Mines

You'll find lots of these and ammunition boxes or buried somewhere, close to fences and other
protected areas. The sapper can find them with the mine detector. He is the only commando
who can do this. Click the LMB on the spot where you want to place a mine. Anti-tank mines
explode only when a vehicle passes over them.

Zodiak

The zodiak is a type of boat used by the diver, who always carries it in his backpack. It opens
when you select it with the cursor. Use it as transportation for your men as well as other people.

Mines

Whiskey can smell them and the sapper can find them with a mine detector. Only he can
deactivate and pickup mines. He can then place them and strategic points. Allied soldiers will
not set off mines placed by the sapper.

The Bomb

Once the sapper activates a timebomb he has 30 seconds to escape before it explodes.

Smoke Bomb

The smoke bomb creates a curtain of smoke that masks your men from the enemy's field of view
for a short while. Be prepared to move quickly to take advantage of it while it lasts.

Objects Selected with Two Clicks

To use the following elements, click once on the corresponding icon on the interface and then
click again with the new cursor on the object or place you want to use it. To go back to the
normal "Arrow" cursor, click the RMB anywhere on the map.

Binoculars Leica 8X56

The binoculars can be used by all the characters. You can obtain binoculars from enemy guards
and lookouts or find them in some cabinets. They are an extraordinary tool for spying from
exteriors into interiors. If you click with the binoculars on enemy you'll get information about him.

Wirecutters

All the commandos can use these to cut through fences and cables. Beware of electrified fences:
you must disconnect them from their power supply prior to cutting them. You will find the
wirecutters in garages, stores and in the backpacks of enemy mechanics.

Mine Detector

The sapper is trained to clear a pass-through minefields for his comrades, detecting dangerous
antipersonnel and anti-tank minds with his mine detector. You can sweep for mines, deactivate
them and put them in his backpack for use when necessary.

Bury

The green beret uses his shovel to dig a hole in the ground and bury himself. Unless someone
sees him digging, once buried he is undetectable.

Lockpicks

With the Lockpicks the thief is able to open all metallic ammo boxes and many doors. To open
doors, he must enter a house and open the door from the inside.

First-aid Kit

Find first-aid kits in various areas in the mission. Each Kit has several doses that you can use by
clicking the "Syringe" cursor on the characters. The doses can be applied to any commando or
allied comrades to regenerate health.

Sneaking Behind Enemies

The thief is a master of sneaking up close to an enemy's back without being noticed by his victim.
He can then look inside the soldier's backpack for anything of interest. To use this ability, click on
the chosen enemy soldier with the "Sneak Up To" cursor.

Blowtorch

Both the sapper and driver can use the blowtorch. It can prove very useful for fixing and building
things while I mission. You can also use it to open metal doors and even as a weapon. Search
the map to find it.

Sleeping Pills

These can be used with bottles of wind and with meat which can be fed to dogs. When an enemy
drinks the wine, he will fall asleep until the end of the mission or until a fellow soldier wakes him
up.

Lipstick

Natasha uses her lipstick to distract the enemy. Choose your victims by clicking on them with the
lipstick cursor and they will be momentarily blinded by her beauty.

Grappling Hook
The diver uses the Hook to place traps for the enemy. Fix the Hook to a wall by clicking the
"Hook" cursor on the bottom part of the wall and clicking again where you want the diver to stand
and pull the rope. Pulling the rope causes stress and his stamina bar decreases. If "Fins" runs
out of stamina he must set the trap again after recovering. Also use the Hook to scale walls when
no ladders are at hand. Click at the top of the wall to fix the Hook and climb the rope.

Rope Ladder

Not all characters have the ability to climb walls like the thief. Therefore, the rope ladder comes
in very handy. It can be thrown from any height, whether from windows, handrails or balconies.
Throw the ladder from above. When you're outside, click the "Ladder" cursor on the floor. To
descend, click on the ladder while pressing the shift key. The ladder highlights and shows the up
and down cursor. Click the LMB and you will descend. You also collect the latter from above.
Press the shift key as you place the cursor on the top of the ladder and the "pick-up" cursor will
be displayed. Click the LMB to put the ladder in your backpack. Using the ladder inside a building
requires more expertise. When you want to exit a room through the window, click on the ladder
with the "Ladder" cursor. The ladder will be extended and you will be able to use it normally. To
retrieve the ladder you must select the "examine" icon and click on the window. When the view
changes, hold down the shift key and click the LMB at the top of the ladder.

Shovel

The driver enjoys digging holes to form traps for enemies.

Issue Orders to the Enemy

The spy is the only one who can do this. He needs to be disguised as an officer to attract the
attention of enemy soldiers.

Issue "Look At" and "Go to" Orders to the Enemy

The spy can issue "look at" and "go to" orders to the enemy to make them look in a certain
direction or moved to another position.

Sheets

Inside Colditz prison the beds are many but the ladders are scarce. Steal some sheets to tie
them together to form a provisional ladder to use to escape through the window -- an old trick but
very effective.

Weapons
Weapons are the Commandos main tools. You start missions carrying some weapons; others
you must find. When you select a certain firearm, the cursor changes to a crosshair that indicates
if the target is in range. If it is red you are too far from your victim.

Machine-Gun MP 40

This is an automatic firearm, very light, which fires in tremendous bursts but has limited
ammunition.

Pistol
The most often used pistol is the Colt 1911 A, which has unlimited ammo. Most of your men
know how to use it and they always carry one.

Hit, Tie And Gag

Some of your men have awesome strength. Their fists are powerful weapons and they can hit
and daze even the biggest enemies. Once enemies are on the floor, your men will easily tie and
gag them when you press the shift key and click the LMB over the victim. You can then take the
contents of the enemies backpacks. Enemies remain tied until a fellow soldier frees them.

Knife

The Fairburn assault knife has a double blade and a combat grip. The green beret approaches
his victims and delivers a single mortal wound with the knife. The diver prefers to throw it.

Rocket Launcher Piat

Very light and powerful, the ammunition is a separate part. The sapper uses the rocket launcher
to fight armored troops.

Gas Grenades

This is a nonlethal bomb that the driver uses, especially in enemy crowded areas. The grenade
creates a thick cloud of gas that dazes all enemies in the area, but does not affect Allied soldiers.

Rifle

This rifle, used by the Allied forces, is a Lee-Enfield n4 MKI with unlimited ammunition. The
Commandos will have the chance to steal some Karabiner 98K rifles from the enemy. If you are
a good shot it will take only one bullet to kill an enemy. The Karabiner has limited ammunition.

Sniper Rifle

The rifle used by your men is the M. 1903, 30 Springfield with unlimited ammunition. You can
obtain some Gewehr 98 rifles from the enemy. Again, you'll have to get these from their
backpacks -- -- and you will need ammunition. These are very long-range rifles that only
"Seductress" and "Duke" can use.

Hand Grenades

These are No. 36M, MK1 "Mills Bombs". The sapper throws them through doors, trap doors and
windows. Grenades are very handy weapons but extremely noisy.

Syringe

This is the spy's favorite weapon. Its effect depends on the number of doses he injects into his
victims. One dazes them, two renders them senseless and makes them fall. Three kills them.

Bottle

Most people would rather drink the wind that use it as a weapon, but "Seductress" won't hesitate
to break it on anyone's head if it aids the successful completion of the mission.

Harpoon Gun
A very important weapon for the diver. Without the harpoon gun he would be unable to defend
himself and the others from sharks, crocodiles and enemy divers.

Molotov Cocktail

Some gasoline and a little spark can make this explosive cocktail kill several enemies at once.

Vehicles
In many of the missions you'll find different types of land, sea and air vehicles. Your Commandos
can use them to move around the map and to infiltrate enemy lines.

Driving Vehicles
All your men can drive vehicles as long as the vehicle is in working order and not occupied by the
enemy. To drive, select the vehicle by pressing the shift key and clicking the LMB on the vehicle
you want to enter. When a commando gets into a car, the camera will follow him and the cursor
will change into a "Wheel" icon. To move, click the "Wheel" icon on the part of the map that you
want to move to and the vehicle will travel forward or backward towards that point. To move
faster, double-click the LMB on the desired direction.

You can also use the cursor keys on the keyboard. To increase speed of movement, press the
shift key at the same time as the cursor keys.

If you are inside a vehicle and the enemy detects you they will shoot at you, unless the spy is
driving the car disguised as an officer. If you are in a balloon, the enemy will not detect your
presence. This does not apply if you drive recklessly, in which case the enemy will shoot at you
regardless of who or where you are.

In some cases you will be able to shoot from an armed vehicle. To do this, press the "CTRL" key
and click the LMB on the target with the cursor.

To make a commando exits a vehicle, select him by clicking on his "Face" icon at the top of the
screen or using his direct access number key. Then press the "Exits" icon or the "X" key.

If you order a commando to exits a boat, remember that he will have to swim to the shore. If you
use a balloon, it must take off before it can move. Click the LMB on the "take off" icon and the
balloon will float skyward. The balloon is controlled in the same way as other vehicles.

When flying you will not be spotted by the enemy unless they spotted you taking off. When you
want to land, find a suitable area, click on the "Land" icon and the balloon will land.

Single Player Game

If you decide to play Commandos 2 as a single player, there are certain steps you must take to
set up.

Setting Up
Begin by selecting your player name and mission. You can create a new player name, or use the
one you previously created. If you are starting Commandos 2 with a new player (for instance, the
first time you play), you must create your player identity and assign it a name. Initially, a default
player is suggested that you can choose to use, delete or change.
As this is the players first encounter, you'll only be granted access to the training missions. As
your experience increases, you will be allowed to risk the Commandos and take on the missions.

Each new player you create will start from scratch, with no experience, and you'll have to train
him from the beginning.

Multiplayer Game
When you decide to enter a multiplayer game, you must select a series of options including
choosing the type of connection and your character before you can start playing. Some of the
game characteristics will be different from the missions in the single player games.

Setting up
In multiplayer mode, one player is in charge of creating the game and insuring the configuration is
correct. He must wait for the other players to join and then he will start the game.

Selecting the Connection

You can play Commandos 2 with other players either over a local area network or on the Internet.
If you select the Internet option, you must enter the IP address of the host player. Alternatively
you could host your own game and invite your friends. Make sure to give them your IP address.
If you do not have your own IP address, the one your Internet service provider assigns you may
change from one session to another.

Selecting the Mission

Once you choose a connection method, a new window will appear where you can choose
whether to join a session that is about to start, or create your own. To enter a mission, click the
LMB on it twice or select it and click the icon at the bottom of the window.

If you are hosting the game, you will only be able to play with the number of players allowed in
the mission. Note that you will only be able to choose from the missions available, and these will
depend on the missions you have previously played in single player mode. On the other hand, if
you want to join a game started by another person, it is not required that you have access to that
particular mission in order to play it.

Selecting Your Characters

In this screen you'll see the names of all players who have decided to join the game, each of
them shown in a different color. Each player must choose at least one character. The faces of
the characters will be outlined by the colors of the players who have selected them. Use the chat
box at the bottom of the screen to talk with the other players.

Before the game can start, pay attention to the following points:

* all the characters involved in the mission must be assigned before the game can begin.

* One player can have several characters

* there can only be one of each character, so you'll have to distribute the characters among
yourselves.

* only the host can change the difficulty level.

* only the host can start the mission, either from the beginning or from a saved game file.

* if the mission is started from a quick-load (instead of from the beginning) players not involved
when the game was saved will not be allowed to join.

If any of the above conditions are not met, the game will not start. Instead, a window will pop up
with an explanation of the problem. When all of you are ready, the mission can be started. Good
luck!

In-Game Differences Between Single Player and Multiplayer

Some aspects of the game function differently in multiplayer when compared to single play, as
explained in the list below:

* the only way you can save the game is by using the quick save feature. As a result you will only
be able to save the last position.

* every time a player decides to save or load the mission, all team members will automatically do
the same. As some computers will be slower than others, it is highly likely that a window will pop
up indicating that the game is waiting for the slower ones to finish saving.

* if one of the players leaves the game or his connection is lost, a window will appear in
explaining that the mission cannot continue.

* if there are connection problems, a window may appear informing you of the problem. This
doesn't mean that the mission is over. Some players will have to exit if it looks like the connection
will not improve.

* during the mission you are able to use chat by pressing the "CTR L." and "Enter" keys
simultaneously.

* In multiplayer games, the game will not balls when you open your notebook, use your backpack,
or perform any other duties.

* if a player is controlling several characters, they will be able to exchange objects between their
backpacks as usual, exactly as in the single player missions.

* if characters controlled by different players want to exchange items, it will require some "good
manners" protocol that has to be explained:

-- -- the exchange between characters controlled by different players can only be done one at a
time, i.e., a red player green beret with a green player Sapper. You are unable to exchange
items with several characters from one player and characters from another player. Exchanging
items is limited to two players at a time.

-- -- if two players are exchanging objects between their respective characters and a third player
appears, that player will have to wait for the others to finish before exchanging with one of them.

-- -- when you decide that you want to exchange objects with another player (remember one
player, one character), one of you will have to begin the dialog using the "Magnifying Lens" icon.
Both players' screens will display respective windows asking for confirmation. If both of them
accept the transaction, the faces and the backpacks of both characters will be shown on both
screens.
The exchange can only be carried out by placing objects in someone else's backpack. You
cannot help yourself to other players' backpacks. This means, for example, that if you want to
take the shovel from a colleague's backpack, you'll have to ask the player for it. Use the chat
(remember, "CTRL" + "Enter") and if you agree, then that player will have to put the item in your
backpack. You'll never be able to take it directly.

If at any time one of the players decide to terminate the transaction, he is able to do so.