Sirtech Canada's 1999 classic — its history, how the press received it, how it plays today, and what a copy costs.
- Released
- 1999 · PC (DOS / Windows)
- Developer
- Sirtech Canada
- Publisher
- TalonSoft
- MobyScore
- ★ 8.32
- Players today
- Mostly Positive on Steam (74% of 704)
The history
Developed by Sirtech Canada Ltd., Jagged Alliance 2 arrived in 1999, casting players as the coordinators for the Association of International Mercenaries (A.I.M.). The game takes place in the democratic monarchy of Arulco, which has been seized via a coup d'état by Queen Deidranna Reitman. The rightful heir, Enrico Chivaldori, survives an assassination attempt and contacts A.I.M. to help him retake the island.
The title mattered as a sophisticated blend of tactical combat and role-playing elements. By combining the management of a mercenary company with the goal of overthrowing a corrupt regime, it offered a complex simulation of guerrilla warfare and political liberation.
How it plays
The gameplay loop is split between a high-level strategic map and isometric tactical combat. Using a laptop, players hire mercenaries and manage funds and equipment from a satellite top-down view of Arulco. From here, players coordinate battle plans to capture towns and mines, deploying mercenaries into specific sectors which triggers combat mode upon encountering hostile forces.
Tactical combat is turn-based, allowing players to position mercenaries favorably before engaging enemies that range from soldiers and tanks to bloodcats—or insect-like monsters in the game's sci-fi mode. Outside of combat, players must manage town militias to defend conquered territories. Loyal populations can be trained by up to two mercenaries through three levels: green, regular, and veteran, with the latter only achievable through actual combat.
How it was received
Upon release, the game was a critical and commercial success. PC Magazine gave it a perfect 4/4, calling it one of the most enjoyably addictive games to hit the shelves in a long time. Other strong scores included 89% from PC Gamer US, 82/100 from PC Gamer UK, and 4.5/5 from Computer Games World, though Next Generation was slightly more reserved with a 3/5, noting that players shouldn't expect a deep roleplaying experience. It was a commercial hit, described by PC Gamer US as the best-selling non-Wizardry title in Sirtech's history.
While period critics lauded its unique blend of elements, modern Steam sentiment remains Mostly Positive, with 521 out of 704 users praising the experience.
In the magazines
The period press.
PC Magazine (4/4), PC Gamer US (89%), PC Gamer UK (82/100), Computer Games World (4.5/5), and Next Generation (3/5).
What players say today
Modern players generally view the game as a high-quality experience, though some note it is very hard to play. Specifically, new players are advised to hire mercenaries like Reaper or Monk early on to secure necessary rifles and ammo, as good weaponry is difficult to find in the beginning.
“Good game but very hard to play. Good guns are hard to find in very beginning so Highly suggest you grab Reaper, Monk even if its for one day so you have the ammo and rifles they come with.”
“Even if the regime is totally inept and corrupt, don't suppose for a moment that you as the liberator will be greeted with open arms.JAGGED ALLIANCE 2: WILDFIRE brings you back to Arulco. The populati…”
Screenshots
The box & the art
Cover art, and real copies photographed in the wild.
Legacy
Sirtech Canada's work on the series established a benchmark for tactical RPGs, later seeing the world of Arulco return in Jagged Alliance 2: Wildfire. The game remains worth seeking out today for those who enjoy a challenging, deep simulation of mercenary warfare and strategic territorial control.
What it's worth
A second-hand market that moves over time — a loose disc is pocket-money, while sealed or complete-with-manual copies drive the top end. For today's exact listings, check the live search.
See current copies on eBay →Copies in the wild
Real listing photos — the range of condition you'll meet.
Photographed examples from past listings — illustrative of condition, not a live inventory.
How to play it in 2026
Easiest today: Steam or GOG (DRM-free) on modern Windows. Either way the core game is intact.
Verdict
Jagged Alliance 2 holds up as a masterclass in turn-based tactics. Its dual-layer approach—switching from the macro-management of a political map to the micro-management of a tactical skirmish—creates a satisfying sense of progression and stakes.
Despite a steep learning curve and a brutal early game, the depth of its militia system and the variety of its combatants ensure that the experience remains rewarding for those willing to master its complexities.
Sources: MobyGames, Steam, and period/web coverage. Prices reflect the second-hand market and change over time.