A masterpiece despite flaws
The real beauty in this game is the free format of the gameplay. You can go wherever you like, you can drive any vehicle you see.. You don't even have to follow mission waypoints. As it is a simulation, you are very weak against bullets. I mean it. 1 or 2 hits will kill you. There is no health kits or armor packs in the game. If you are not killed in the first shot, the only thing you can do is to go to a medic (if he is still alive) and get a treatment. Weapons are very realistic too. Effective ranges are simulated in depth. You can't kill an enemy 500m ahead with MP5. There are no magic zooms either. Concealment, cover, squadron tactics are all there for you to use. Even with all those you are going to be so afraid in engagements that, you'll wonder how in the real world some people become heroes. Operation Flashpoint is filled with unforgettable moments. For example even in the second mission, enemy tanks arrive at the town you just occupied and you get "retreat" order. While you are retreating you are confident that your M1 tanks will take care of T80s (isn't it always the case in Hollywood?) but they are destroyed in a couple of seconds. What remains, in the open field, T80s and your squadron. And they begin to wipe out the squadron one by one and you hear "3 is down, 4 is down", etc... You try to run into woods.. But god... T80s can even strike down the trees. And you RUN LIKE HELL. Ladies and gentleman this is one of the scariest moments in the gaming history....
As I said before, this game is not perfect. Graphics are not great but it works. The real problem is the controls. You are getting used to it in a few hours, but I know many people who did not and stopped playing for this reason only. But I advise you not to do it. Operation Flashpoint is a classic. Just be patience at the beginning and you will thank me at the end.