Following on from the signle player preview a while ago, Shacknews take a look at the multiplayer component of GSC Gameworld's S.T.A.L.K.E.R. Shadow of Chernobyl

S.T.A.L.K.E.R. is due this coming week.

Deathmatch features mechanics that are sure to make Counter-Strike players right at home. Before a session begins, a menu displays weapon options that players can purchase using the cash they start off with. Some weapons will be unattainable for a while, but can be acquired through killing other players, which in turn earns you more cash. In addition to new weapons, you can also acquire items such as med kits, body armor, and night vision goggles. Shotguns, SMGs, rifles, rocket launchers, scopes, and silencers--a wide array of destructiveness is represented here. Casual gamers should be warned that all the guns have been designed to act and react realistically; you will feel a kick with weapons such as the shotgun. Typical FPS strategies such as circle strafing and back pedaling while shooting are also a bit more difficult to pull off; circle strafing is awkward and dizzying in real life, and the same rules apply to S.T.A.L.K.E.R.