PRISONER OF WAR (working title)
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Taking on The Great Escape

By WILLIAM BARKER

Fancy yourself as an escape expert? No, we're not talking jails here, or even mental asylums (that reminds me…). We mean POW camps. The meanest of the mean, the most dangerous place to eke out an existence. But, like the film The Great Escape, they would be one of the most difficult places to escape from - which is the basis for Codemaster's next big project.

Set in 1941, the game will span four German prisoner of war (POW) camps - Salonika, Stalag Luft I, Stalag Luft III and Colditz Castle. You will take control of four captured Allied characters from British, French, Dutch and US backgrounds. Gameplay details are sketchy at best, but from what we gather, it will be a mix of classic adventure and third-person sneak-em-up.

At this stage in development, the game is looking tight with a number of very cool gameplay ideas in the pipeline. The game is set for a Christmas release on both PC and PS2 platforms this year, but chances are that it will end up being an early 2002 game.

POW looks good, with authentic architecture and good use of drab textures. Using the 'Atlas' 3D engine, the game makes good use of both indoor and outdoor environs, renders highly detailed character models and includes nice little touches, such as weather effects and facial expressions. The nerve-wracking atmosphere is re-created with much style, especially at night, where necessity brings about some of the more daring stunts.

Methods of escape are numerous and will involve plenty of suspense and drama. You'll be able to use explosives, stealth tactics and even a glider. Intrigued? We're hoping there'll be some Shawshank Redemption-esque scenes with players having the ability to dig their way through three metres of concrete walling with a teaspoon.

POW could be a most impressive diversion if Codies get it right first time. David Darling, Codemasters Chief Executive said: "A key title for the winter season, Prisoner of War marries a balance of stealth and action, creating an immersive gameplay experience." Time to go and watch the motorcycle scene from The Great Escape again…