Steel Hunters, the latest offering from Wargaming, is an ambitious free-to-play mech shooter that blends elements of hero shooters, extraction games, and battle royale mechanics. As someone who’s spent countless hours immersed in multiplayer titles, I was excited to dive into this post-apocalyptic world of mechanical giants. Here’s my take on Steel Hunters after exploring its Early Access version.
Gameplay Overview
Set in a world devastated by a Starfall disaster, Steel Hunters introduces players to massive mechs that are both visually stunning and mechanically diverse. You play as one of these “Hunters,” paired with a teammate to battle AI drones, rival players, and environmental challenges while collecting resources for extraction. The game’s PvPvE structure adds layers of complexity, requiring players to balance combat with strategic resource gathering.
Each match is divided into phases, starting with resource collection and culminating in a high-stakes extraction. Objectives like capturing Starfall Towers or completing mid-game events such as Tag Hunts keep the gameplay dynamic. These events offer rewards like Colossus Kits, which temporarily transform your mech into an even larger powerhouse. The pacing can be uneven at times—long stretches without player interaction contrast sharply with the intense firefights when teams collide.
Mech Design and Abilities
One of Steel Hunters’ standout features is its roster of mechs, each inspired by real-world animals. Weaver, for instance, is a spider-like robot capable of agile movements and devastating attacks. The game does an excellent job of making each mech feel unique, with distinct abilities and playstyles that cater to different strategies. Customisation options allow players to tweak their mech’s weapons, gear, and mods, adding depth to progression systems.
Combat feels weighty and satisfying, thanks in part to the game’s destruction mechanics. Watching buildings crumble under your mech’s firepower adds a visceral thrill to engagements. However, the limited ammo system—where ammunition regenerates slowly—forces players to think carefully about every shot they take.
Strengths
Steel Hunters shines in several areas:
- Dynamic Multiplayer Elements: The combination of PvPvE mechanics ensures that no two matches feel alike. Whether you’re fighting drones or rival teams, there’s always something demanding your attention.
- Team Synergy: Success hinges on coordination with your partner. Perfectly timed abilities can turn the tide of battle during chaotic firefights.
- Visuals and World-Building: The post-apocalyptic setting is beautifully rendered, with lush yet desolate environments that immerse players in its sci-fi narrative.
Weaknesses
Despite its strengths, Steel Hunters has some notable drawbacks:
- Map Size: While expansive maps offer room for exploration and strategy, they can lead to long periods of inactivity where you’re simply wandering without encountering enemies.
- Learning Curve: Controlling massive mechs can feel clunky at first, especially for newcomers to the genre.
My Verdict
Steel Hunters is a bold experiment that successfully merges multiple genres into a cohesive experience. Its mech designs and tactical gameplay are compelling enough to keep players engaged for hours. However, its pacing issues hold it back from reaching its full potential.
As someone who appreciates games that reward strategic thinking over reflexes, I found Steel Hunters’ emphasis on teamwork and resource management refreshing. That said, I hope Wargaming addresses the gaps in player interaction and expands its content offerings before the full release.
