Privateer 2: The Darkening is a 1996 space trading and combat simulation game set in the Wing Commander universe. You play as Ser Lev Arris, an amnesiac survivor of a starship crash who must rebuild his life as a privateer in the Tri-System, a remote region of space where pirate clans and corporate factions vie for power. The game combines open-ended space combat and trading with a branching narrative told through live-action cutscenes featuring an all-star cast including Clive Owen, Christopher Walken, John Hurt, and others filmed at Pinewood Studios.
Players can pilot various ships, engage in missions that range from smuggling and bounty hunting to complex subplot quests, trade commodities between planetary systems, and upgrade their vessel and hired wingmen. The mix of cinematic storytelling and space simulation was ambitious for its time, though critics noted technical issues, linear plot elements, and a smaller world compared to the original Wing Commander: Privateer. Despite mixed reviews, the game remains a noteworthy part of the franchise with dedicated fans praising its narrative depth and production values.
Key Features:
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Space trading and combat simulation in an open world.
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Narrative driven by live-action FMV scenes with famous actors.
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Multiple missions including main plot and side quests.
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Variety of upgradeable ships and equipment.
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Player choice influences missions and subplot paths.
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Interactive trading across planetary systems.
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Wingmen support in combat missions.
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Atmospheric FMV cinematics enhancing storytelling.
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Exploration of the Tri-System region.
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Immersive 3D space combat engine.
System Requirements:
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MS-DOS or Windows 95/early PC platform (original).
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Pentium 75 MHz minimum CPU.
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16 MB RAM or more.
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SVGA video card (1 MB+).
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40 MB free hard drive space.
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4× CD-ROM drive.
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Mouse (required).
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For modern GOG versions: Windows 10, 1.8 GHz CPU, 2 GB RAM, DirectX-compatible GPU, 2 GB HDD
