Combat Mission: Shock Force 2 plunges players into an intense hypothetical conflict between NATO and Syrian forces, set against the arid Syrian landscape. Players command elite US Stryker and Heavy Brigade Combat Teams as they confront the diverse threats of modern warfare, from mechanized Syrian forces to irregular combatants using IEDs and suicide bombers. Take on the immersive Task Force Thunder campaign, or choose from a variety of standalone missions and Quick Battles.

Gameplay can switch between RealTime and WeGo (turn-based) modes, allowing players to plan out strategic moves in 60-second increments, or engage in real-time tactics. The Quick Battle system adds replayability, letting players configure custom forces and battle scenarios with a broad choice of maps. Shock Force 2 also boasts a detailed map and scenario editor for crafting new campaigns.

Experience unprecedented realism in every aspect of gameplay. High-resolution 3D models for each soldier and vehicle simulate physical and psychological factors such as morale, leadership, and experience, impacting performance and responses. A unique Relative Spotting system creates individual soldier perspectives, enhancing Fog of War realism as units share or withhold crucial battlefield information. Tactical AI (TacAI) considers psychological state and individual qualities for each unit, making every encounter unique.