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A wide open, non-linear game like this requires extremely strong A.I. to accurately produce a realistic, unique battlefield experience and EA's new 'affordance' A.I. system seems to be up to the task. Rather than having one, scripted reaction when you enter a room, for example, an enemy soldier will react realistically, their response determined by a number of factors. These factors include anything that gives one soldier on the battlefield an advantage over their opponent: superior weaponry, numbers, cover, or terrain, for example.

The affordance system appears to be functioning admirably, providing a level of realism unparalleled in the history of MOH. I'm curious to see what the A.I. will be like in the PS2 and Xbox versions of Airborne, which are, wisely, being developed seperately. These current-gen versions of Airborne will, certainly, be very different from their next-gen and PC brethren and developing them seperately has allowed EA not to compromise on the A.I.

While the non-linear gameplay is certainly the most significant change, Airborne will differ from its predecessors in a number of other ways. Each operation is divided into two seperate playable missions. During the first mission of each operation, players will take on the role of a Pathfinder, the elite among airborne forces. Their role is to drop before the main forces in order to designate drop zones, take key positions, and eliminate  immediate threats. The Pathfinder missions will be more stealth oriented than the second mission of each op, which follow the exploits of a regular P.F.C in the 82nd.

Another interesting departure from past MOH titles is that Airborne will feature an extensive, RPG-like, weapon customization system. Historically accurate upgrades like grenade launchers, trench knives, larger ammo cartridges, improved grips and stocks, even stability enhancers like the 'Cutts Compensator,' designed to reduce recoil, will all be available. These modifications must be found in the field and, in order to use them, players must first have built up enough experience points with the base weapon. EA expects this system to increase Airborne's replay value as one  play through of the single player campaign will not allow enough time to master all the weapons and upgrades.

Another, highly-touted, change to MOH's weapons is the 'true' or'two stage' trigger. This means, essentially, that the button representing the trigger can be pressed with varying degrees of force. Just as with a real weapon, the proper amount of pressure must be maintained in order to ensure accuracy and reduce recoil. It's an intriguing idea and demos have shown that proper trigger technique will significantly affect the accuracy of all the weapons in the game, from sniper rifles to machine guns.

Yet another first for the MOH franchise is that Airborne will feature drivable vehicles. In fact, EA has inked a sponsorship deal with Daimler-Chrysler (sigh..) that ensures Jeeps will play a significant role in a number of missions. In EA's defense, however, the deal does serve their purpose of maintaining historical accuracy. Over 360,000 Jeeps were produced for the war effort by the long defunct Willys-Overland Motors, Inc. The vehicles will feature mounted weapons in addition to serving as a means of transportation.

While the single player campaign looks quite promising, relatively little is known about Airborne's multiplayer. One tidbit EA has revealed, however, is that defeated allied soldiers will respawn and parachute back onto the battlefield. This should reinforce the game's wide open, non linear feel and keep battle lines from becoming too static.

EA has also revealed that the PS3 version will feature 6 axis-specific control. While that would normally be very unexciting news indeed, controlling the parachute's descent could be well served by the PS3's motion sensing capabilities, though only time will tell.

Judging from what's been shown so far, MOH: Airborne appears poised to reinvigorate an otherwise stagnant, overcrowded genre. The game's non-linear 'living battlefield' approach could take console shooters in a new, promising direction. Airborne's extensive weapon customization system, and realistic new trigger mechanic, should serve to deepen the experience. The only remaining question: will fans of the Medal of Honor franchise recognize it?