ARMA 2: Operation Arrowhead

In Arma 2: Operation Arrowhead, the player can assume the role of various military duties from simple infantry man or a special forces operative to tank commander or pilot of a combat helicopter. Also in some scenarios the users are allowed to command units like a real-time strategy game. Players are allowed to perform duties that real soldiers would perform during combat. In addition to campaigns, players are allowed to play mini-missions and participate in a simulated training program.

Arma 2: Operation Arrowhead features United States Army military equipment, albeit with some creative liberties taken by the developers. S. Army's standard M16 rifle has been replaced by the SCAR-L and SCAR-H in-game. S.

Arma 2: Operation Arrowhead is set in the fictional country of Takistan and takes place in the then-future of summer 2012; nearly three years after the Chernarus conflict of fall 2009 that is depicted in Arma 2, right after Arma 2's hidden ending. In the game's single-player campaign, Takistani government led by Colonel Muhammad Aziz threatens to use SCUD missiles against a neighboring Karzeghistan, following the outbreak of the economic crisis caused by the anti-government rebels who destroyed a significant part of country's oil wells. U.S. and NATO forces are sent in to prevent the attack and overthrow Aziz government and to possibly back up the anti-government royalist faction. Players have the ability to perform optional tasks throughout the game, allowing for multiple endings.

Arma 2: Operation Arrowhead uses a customized version of Bohemia Interactive's own Real Virtuality 3 engine. The game allows the user to include original Arma 2 content to the game. Alternatively both games can be bought together in a package called Arma 2: Combined Operations. Several patches have been released for Arma 2: Operation Arrowhead, including public beta patches.

The game is AMD Eyefinity validated.

The game has received warm reviews from critics. GameSpot says "Arma 2: Operation Arrowhead, its stand-alone expansion, boasts all the beauty, realism, and action of the original and none of the game-breaking bugs. Improving upon its predecessor in almost every way." Although the maps and weapons received praise from reviewers, they go on to say that its steep learning curve might deter people from playing.

PC Gamer goes on to say "If you aren't open to the idea of spending days getting accustomed to a control scheme, understanding the layout and functionality of complex communication menus, and partaking in a style of gameplay that rewards patience, planning, and perseverance, then it's not very likely you're going to enjoy the intricate product Bohemia's created." IGN elaborates saying "It's a game only for the dedicated, but if you've got the desire and the attention span, it's absolutely worth checking out." Critics also point out that the game engine still has AI glitches like its predecessor. Many critics also said that the game was too computer-intensive, causing many "hiccups" in performance.