Retro Replay Review

Gameplay

Battlefield 1942: Secret Weapons of WWII builds upon the solid foundation of the original Battlefield 1942 by introducing a thrilling mix of experimental weaponry and fresh mission objectives. The new personal rocket pack instantly becomes the centerpiece of fast-paced skirmishes, allowing infantry to traverse the battlefield vertically and launch surprise attacks on enemy positions. Complemented by rocket-propelled aircraft, each match feels like a dynamic dance of man and machine fighting for aerial supremacy.

(HEY YOU!! We hope you enjoy! We try not to run ads. So basically, this is a very expensive hobby running this site. Please consider joining us for updates, forums, and more. Network w/ us to make some cash or friends while retro gaming, and you can win some free retro games for posting. Okay, carry on 👍)

In addition to airborne chaos, Secret Weapons adds an array of new armored vehicles—from prototype super-tanks to half-tracked rocket launchers—that dramatically shift the flow of ground combat. Strategically placed on eight new maps, these vehicles reward players who master both combined-arms teamwork and solo guerrilla tactics. Convoy escorts, base assaults, and sprawling open-field engagements all benefit from this expanded arsenal, ensuring each play session carries a unique strategic flavor.

The introduction of a new objective-based gameplay mode injects fresh intensity into familiar maps. Rather than relying solely on capture-the-flag or territory control, teams must focus on completing mission-critical tasks like disabling a V2 rocket launch pad or securing intel at the Eagle’s Nest. This objective-driven approach fosters collaboration, as squads must coordinate airstrikes, armored advances, and infantry assaults to succeed. Overall, the gameplay innovations in Secret Weapons keep matches unpredictable and deeply engaging.

Graphics

Though Secret Weapons of WWII was released in 2003, its graphics still hold up remarkably well for an expansion of its era. The textures on the new secret weapon props—such as the sleek curves of the rocket pack’s fuel tanks or the jagged steel plating of experimental tanks—display impressive detail. Environmental assets on the V2 research facility map, complete with high-tech bunkers and launch gantries, evoke a convincing sense of clandestine wartime engineering.

Lighting and particle effects see a notable boost when firing rocket-propelled weapons or witnessing a tank’s main gun detonate against enemy armor. Explosions, smoke plumes, and tracer fire cut through the atmosphere, adding cinematic flair without sacrificing performance. Even on moderately powered hardware of the time, the frame rate remains steady, allowing large-scale engagements with dozens of vehicles and players to unfold seamlessly.

Map design also shines in the graphical department. The Eagle’s Nest features snow-dusted mountains and winding roads that tumble into shadowy tunnels, while the V2 complex boasts rusted catwalks and underground labs rendered with moody detail. Each environment feels distinctive, encouraging exploration and adding visual variety to the multiplayer experience. Though modern standards may outstrip its fidelity, Secret Weapons remains a visually arresting expansion.

Story

Unlike single-player campaigns that guide you through a linear plot, Secret Weapons of WWII delivers its narrative through context-rich environments and objective briefs. Each map represents a covert Cold War–era operation where Allied and Axis forces scramble to test or sabotage advanced prototypes. This framework offers a loose but effective sense of urgency, making each battle feel like an isolated yet pivotal moment in a larger secret arms race.

The V2 research facility map, for instance, places players inside a sprawling German rocket complex. Objective descriptions hint at clandestine experiments to develop long-range missiles, giving every skirmish a cinematic edge. Likewise, the Eagle’s Nest—Hitler’s mountaintop retreat repurposed for secret weapon research—provides an evocative backdrop that feels steeped in wartime intrigue.

While there’s no traditional cutscene-driven storyline, the scattered audio cues, environment details, and mission objectives weave a compelling tapestry of alternate-history “what ifs.” Players create their own stories through large-scale skirmishes, daring rescues, and last-minute defenses. This open-ended narrative approach keeps the focus on multiplayer tension, emphasizing emergent moments over a scripted plot.

Overall Experience

Secret Weapons of WWII stands out as one of the most inventive expansion packs for Battlefield 1942. Its focus on prototype weaponry not only broadens the gameplay possibilities but also injects fresh excitement into the tried-and-true formula. Whether you’re jet-packing into a fortress or piloting a rocket-bombing aircraft, each session feels like a high-stakes experiment that can tip either way at a moment’s notice.

Multiplayer communities have embraced these additions wholeheartedly, hosting custom servers that spotlight the new objective mode and specialized weapon load-outs. The eight new maps ensure players won’t feel fatigued, while the diverse combat roles keep matches balanced and engaging for both newcomers and veteran commanders. Coordination and strategy remain paramount, but the secret weapons lend a chaotic edge that keeps everyone on their toes.

For fans of Battlefield 1942 seeking a revitalized experience, Secret Weapons of WWII delivers in spades. Its blend of experimental gear, striking map designs, and objective-driven missions creates a memorable expansion that still resonates with WWII enthusiasts. Even after two decades, this pack showcases the creativity and depth that made the Battlefield series a multiplayer classic.

Retro Replay Score

7.5/10