In Episode 23 of the Critical Moves Podcast, hosts Al, Nuno, and Tim delve into Broken Arrow, a large-scale real-time tactics game that blends military simulation ambitions with arcade-style execution. Drawing from their hands-on experiences with the preview build, the team evaluates the game's strengths, shortcomings, and its potential to stand out in the tactics genre.
Defining 'Broken Arrow'
The episode opens with a discussion on how to categorize Broken Arrow. Al views it as a military simulation RTS, while Nuno disagrees, describing it as a more complex iteration of Wargame. Tim offers a middle ground, labeling it a real-time tactics game due to its focus on unit tactics over traditional RTS elements like base-building and resource collection. The game emphasizes map control through a point-based unit acquisition system, reminiscent of World in Conflict but with a modern military setting.
Single-Player Experience
Both Nuno and Al engaged with the single-player tutorial and the "Road to Kaliningrad" mission. Nuno appreciated the mission's replayability and tactical flexibility, noting its open-ended design and subtle narrative context. Al praised the mission's pacing and authentic scale but mentioned that certain mechanics, like the generic supply crate system for tank repairs, occasionally disrupted immersion.
Multiplayer Insights
Tim's multiplayer sessions highlighted the game's tactical depth. The lane-based multiplayer mode offers segments of the larger battlefield, fostering strategic maneuvering and team coordination. The dynamic artillery exchanges added a layer of tension, requiring players to anticipate and counter enemy fire effectively.
Gameplay Mechanics and Unit Dynamics
The team was impressed by the game's scale and the emphasis on line-of-sight and field-of-fire mechanics. Units' vision cones, influenced by terrain and structures, necessitate careful scouting and movement. However, infantry units felt underdeveloped, lacking depth in combat mechanics compared to their vehicle counterparts. The absence of cover mechanics and suppression systems made infantry engagements less engaging.
Combined Arms Strategy
Despite infantry shortcomings, the game's combined arms approach was lauded. Effective strategies require integrating infantry for reconnaissance, artillery for bombardment, tanks for frontline assaults, and aircraft for support. This synergy mirrors modern military tactics, rewarding players who think like contemporary commanders.
Customization and Replayability
The extensive unit customization options stood out, especially in multiplayer. Players can tailor their forces by selecting specific equipment and loadouts, enhancing replayability and personal engagement. The learning curve is steep, but the depth adds significant value for dedicated players.
Presentation and Immersion
Graphically, Broken Arrow excels with immersive terrain and detailed visuals. However, close-up animations felt less refined, and certain voice lines, like the exclamation "Heavy armour on the field!", seemed out of place, detracting from the game's realistic tone. Nonetheless, the minimalist delivery of story elements during missions was appreciated for maintaining gameplay flow.
Sound Design and Modding Potential
The sound design, particularly the portrayal of explosions and artillery, significantly contributed to the game's immersive experience. The team expressed optimism about the potential for modding support and scenario editing, believing these features could extend the game's longevity and community engagement. Broken Arrow is currently slated for a June 2025 release, though this remains a tentative window.
Conclusion
Broken Arrow shows considerable promise, effectively combining accessible gameplay with tactical depth. While it doesn't fully realize its potential, particularly concerning infantry mechanics, its scale, unit diversity, and authentic feel position it as a noteworthy entry in the tactics genre. It occupies a unique space between hardcore military simulation and traditional RTS, offering a fresh perspective for players seeking a balance between realism and strategic gameplay.
Listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts or Amazon Music. Or find us on your preferred podcast service by searching Critical Moves Podcast.
Defining 'Broken Arrow'The episode opens with a discussion on how to categorize Broken Arrow. Al views it as a military simulation RTS, while Nuno disagrees, describing it as a more complex iteration of Wargame. Tim offers a middle ground, labeling it a real-time tactics game due to its focus on unit tactics over traditional RTS elements like base-building and resource collection. The game emphasizes map control through a point-based unit acquisition system, reminiscent of World in Conflict but with a modern military setting.
Single-Player ExperienceBoth Nuno and Al engaged with the single-player tutorial and the "Road to Kaliningrad" mission. Nuno appreciated the mission's replayability and tactical flexibility, noting its open-ended design and subtle narrative context. Al praised the mission's pacing and authentic scale but mentioned that certain mechanics, like the generic supply crate system for tank repairs, occasionally disrupted immersion.
Multiplayer InsightsTim's multiplayer sessions highlighted the game's tactical depth. The lane-based multiplayer mode offers segments of the larger battlefield, fostering strategic maneuvering and team coordination. The dynamic artillery exchanges added a layer of tension, requiring players to anticipate and counter enemy fire effectively.
Gameplay Mechanics and Unit DynamicsThe team was impressed by the game's scale and the emphasis on line-of-sight and field-of-fire mechanics. Units' vision cones, influenced by terrain and structures, necessitate careful scouting and movement. However, infantry units felt underdeveloped, lacking depth in combat mechanics compared to their vehicle counterparts. The absence of cover mechanics and suppression systems made infantry engagements less engaging.
Combined Arms StrategyDespite infantry shortcomings, the game's combined arms approach was lauded. Effective strategies require integrating infantry for reconnaissance, artillery for bombardment, tanks for frontline assaults, and aircraft for support. This synergy mirrors modern military tactics, rewarding players who think like contemporary commanders.
Customization and ReplayabilityThe extensive unit customization options stood out, especially in multiplayer. Players can tailor their forces by selecting specific equipment and loadouts, enhancing replayability and personal engagement. The learning curve is steep, but the depth adds significant value for dedicated players.
Presentation and ImmersionGraphically, Broken Arrow excels with immersive terrain and detailed visuals. However, close-up animations felt less refined, and certain voice lines, like the exclamation "Heavy armour on the field!", seemed out of place, detracting from the game's realistic tone. Nonetheless, the minimalist delivery of story elements during missions was appreciated for maintaining gameplay flow.
Sound Design and Modding PotentialThe sound design, particularly the portrayal of explosions and artillery, significantly contributed to the game's immersive experience. The team expressed optimism about the potential for modding support and scenario editing, believing these features could extend the game's longevity and community engagement. Broken Arrow is currently slated for a June 2025 release, though this remains a tentative window.
ConclusionBroken Arrow shows considerable promise, effectively combining accessible gameplay with tactical depth. While it doesn't fully realize its potential, particularly concerning infantry mechanics, its scale, unit diversity, and authentic feel position it as a noteworthy entry in the tactics genre. It occupies a unique space between hardcore military simulation and traditional RTS, offering a fresh perspective for players seeking a balance between realism and strategic gameplay.
Listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts or Amazon Music. Or find us on your preferred podcast service by searching Critical Moves Podcast.