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WWII is an atrocity that should never be forgotten. As such, whenever a game tastefully utilises this theme, I applaud the effort. Consequently, when I was given War Mongrels to review, I couldn’t wait to unravel a cruel and unusual German/Soviet viewpoint. Furthermore, the core mechanics test your tactical mindset and the grim cutscenes will push your resolve.
Developed and published by Destructive Creations, this is a real-time strategy game. Moreover, there are stealth elements and an array of tactical choices to be made. On top of this, there is a band of characters to master and stomach-churning cinematic to observe. Accordingly, it highlights the cruel nature of war, no matter which side of the fence you sit on. However, this genre is usually PC-oriented, and therefore I was worried about how it would port to console. In short, it does a pretty good job, but there are some minor control issues that hold it back.
War Mongrels tells a story of eye-opening war crimes.
The WWII narrative focuses on the hatred of the Nazis and the pride of the Allies. Yet, both sides committed awful crimes and each group of soldiers endured some horrific moments. Thankfully, War Mongrels highlights these moments in its dark but tastefully told story. This scenario-based strategy title breaks down these key moments while demonstrating some atrocious acts.
You control a pair of Wehrmacht soldiers who go from deserters to guerrilla fighters. En route, the pair enlist the help of other disillusioned fighters as they battle against an ever-expanding Nazi force. Set on the Eastern front, the band of soldiers must combat the elements as well as their cruel enemies. Moreover, they must use their skills, the shadows, and their wits to overcome each obstacle and complete each task.
As such, War Mongrels has distinct Commandos/Desperados undertones. Yet, the gameplay doesn’t feel as free-flowing and the overall story is distinctly darker and more memorable.
7 characters and multiple approaches.
Real-time strategy games require a methodical mindset and accurate gameplay. However, when you chuck in 7 unique characters and plenty of stealthy moments, things get worryingly troublesome. Consequently, you’ll fail each mission repeatedly before you are successful. Yet, the trial-and-error approach makes this a rewarding and challenging experience.
Your soldiers must remain hidden from your opponent’s gaze. If they are seen, they will be shot on sight. Therefore, you will use the shadows, gadgets, and bottles to hide and cause distractions. This is easier said than done as minor mistakes add up. What’s more, if bodies are discovered or they sense foul play, you must think fast or fail your mission.
This brutal mechanic is underpinned by some tough mission objectives. As such, you cannot focus on one job, otherwise, you are likely to fail. Subsequently, you may need to use one particular squad member for any given task. This can be frustrating if you don’t like their speciality. However, you must be flexible if you wish to annihilate your Nazi opponents and complete your guerilla warfare.
War Mongrels is gritty and sinister.
A sombre and melancholy game needs a gritty and sinister finish. Thankfully, War Mongrels delivers this and much more. The isometric viewpoint and the excellent colour palette create an ominous and oppressive atmosphere. Alongside this, the stylish cinematic is gruesome and dramatic. The developers managed to balance the sense of responsibility between friend and foe. As such, each cutscene wonderfully represents the wrongdoings of both the Soviet and the German forces.
The audio enhances the cruelty thanks to booming sound effects and wonderful soundbites. Alongside this, the soundtrack supports the action in a spectacular blend of aggression and silence. Therefore, War Mongrels produces a hard-hitting experience without pushing an OTT agenda.
Occasionally clumsy controls.
Undoubtedly, War Mongrels performs better with a mouse and keyboard. However, console gamers can enjoy the action with minimal issues. Once you understand the fundamentals, you’ll get used to the occasionally clumsy controls. Moreover, the well-considered UI mitigates most problems. Yet, you must be prepared for a tough learning curve and confusing moments. If you can accept this, you’ll get to grips with this excellent RTS title.
This isn’t lacking in replay value or longevity. With multiple solutions on offer and online cooperative action, this will keep you busy. What’s more, there is a challenging achievement list to unlock and plenty of tough objectives to focus on. Consequently, if you want a game that’ll push you all the way, then this should be high on your list.
War Mongrels is good but flawed.
I adore this genre and I love the cruel theme. However, I can’t overlook the clunky controls and the odd bugs and glitches. Yet, RTS games and console gaming rarely mix. Therefore, this is a good title if you cherish the genre and theme. Accordingly, it was great despite the flaws and I recommend that you buy it here! Can you stop a cruel Nazi army? Master your skills, select the correct fighter, and complete every objective.
