As a seasoned gamer with over two decades of gaming under my belt, I must admit that Menace has truly piqued my interest. Last year at Gamescom, I got a glimpse of this strategy title and it felt like a tantalizing expansion of an X-COM game – a series that has been a staple in my gaming diet for years.
Previously at Gamescom, I had the opportunity to preview Menace in advance. This strategy game, developed by Overhype Studios and published by Hooded Horse (also known for Manor Lords), attracted my attention as it seemed like an extension of the X-COM series.
As a gaming enthusiast, I can’t help but express my eagerness to dive back in after witnessing a closed-door, hands-off demonstration of this game that delivers turn-based combat reminiscent of a Warhammer 40K battlefield’s “combined arms” experience. It’s left me yearning for more!
A proper Menace
In the mission of Menace, you find yourself trapped within the Time-Loop System, a region at the edge of cosmic expanse – as you might have anticipated, there’s no escape route available.
As a space explorer, I find myself tasked with restoring tranquility in the distant frontiers, where rival factions clash violently. Unfortunately, our communication device is malfunctioning, preventing me from returning home as planned. Consequently, it’s essential for me to collaborate closely with these factions to repair my connection back to the central star systems.
In this system, tasks are accomplished via Operations – a series of related missions. Completing these missions can either boost or diminish your standing with specific groups. This impact is demonstrated through strategic, turn-based battles.
At first glance, Menace appears similar to many other turn-based strategy games, but it offers an exceptional experience due to its exquisitely crafted maps that evoke a Warhammer 40K table. Occasionally, the game stimulates a child’s desire to reach out and interact with the models in a store, thanks to elements like lush-looking grass and intricately detailed units.
Peer closer, and you’ll find a depth beyond the surface. In strategic phases, units might be incapacitated, sprawled helplessly, oblivious to their surroundings. Yet, from my vantage point high above, I can execute precision strikes, reminiscent of Helldivers, on designated targets below. Unlike X-COM, there’s no hit percentage here, but damage decreases as you move away from the source.
Watching those two elements come together creates an incredibly gratifying sensation, as you effortlessly eliminate an enemy squad from afar.
Culture War
One aspect I greatly enjoy about Menace is the introduction of a band of identifiable characters who can engage in combat. It bears a resemblance to Fire Emblem in how these leaders interact, with a valiant warrior showing signs of resentment when he’s knocked down, while those hailing from opposing factions might find it challenging to work harmoniously as a team.
Beyond offering numerous personalization options for your characters, allowing you to equip them with fresh gear, it’s important to note that once a character perishes, they cannot return – this is known as permadeath. The behavior of other soldiers in the game may also adjust based on your decisions.
If you cause a character’s premature end, it’s likely they’ll speak disrespectfully about you during their funeral, possibly even accusing you of their demise. This adds an authentic touch to the characters that I find appealing, and they also cooperate well as a team.
In my demo, the sniper character on the team used her spotting scope to ensure the Mech’s otherwise unguided missile system scored a direct hit, and I’m excited to see what other synergies emerge during what Overhype Studios has suggested will be a 30 to 40-hour campaign.
As a player, I’ll find myself collaborating or competing with various in-game factions. But, it’s the chilling Menace that will ultimately challenge all I’ve mastered within the game, pushing me to my limits.
Final Thoughts
Instead of having a physical Warhammer battlefield at home, I believe Menace could serve as an excellent alternative for my turn-based strategy game fix.
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2024-08-28 16:13