Tag: Tactical Shooter

  • Tactical Military Shooter on Sale for $3 – Grab It Now!

    Tactical Military Shooter on Sale for $3 – Grab It Now!

    Key Takeaways

    1. Game Structure: Red Orchestra 2: Heroes of Stalingrad with Rising Storm is a bundle that includes the main game and its expansion, with Rising Storm originally intended as DLC.

    2. Military Realism: The game prioritizes military authenticity and tactical gameplay, featuring realistic ballistics, no crosshairs, and a steep learning curve, emphasizing teamwork in multiplayer matches.

    3. Campaign and Setting: The campaign in Red Orchestra 2 offers a loose collection of bot battles with historical context but lacks a structured storyline. Rising Storm shifts focus to the Pacific Theater, showcasing iconic battles like Iwo Jima.

    4. Reception and Criticism: The game received praise for its realism and strategic gameplay, but criticism for its steep learning curve and lackluster single-player AI. Visuals are dated, and player counts can be low.

    5. Overall Reception and Pricing: Red Orchestra 2 has generally positive reviews, with varying scores across platforms. It is currently available at a significant discount on Steam, making it an attractive option for new players.


    Red Orchestra 2: Heroes of Stalingrad with Rising Storm is a package that consists of both the main title and its independent expansion. What started as downloadable content (DLC) for the game, Rising Storm, transformed into a complete expansion during its development process. If players buy Rising Storm by itself, they can access the multiplayer features of Red Orchestra 2, but with certain restrictions unless they unlock the full base game. While Red Orchestra 2 emphasizes intense, close-range combat on the Eastern Front, Rising Storm takes players to the jungles and beaches of the Pacific Theater.

    Military Realism and Tactical Gameplay

    RO 2 appeals to gamers who prioritize military authenticity and team strategy over arcade-style gameplay. It breaks away from standard shooter norms and focuses on real ballistics along with a steep learning curve. Elements like hit zones, blood loss effects, no crosshairs, no automatic healing, and a limited HUD create a rough and challenging war environment. The game is designed primarily for multiplayer experiences, featuring roles such as infantry, tank crews, and battlefield leaders engaged in 64-player matches where teamwork is vital. The standalone expansion, Rising Storm, adds an element of asymmetrical warfare. U.S. Marines possess greater firepower, while Japanese troops utilize guerrilla tactics, banzai charges, and concealed traps, adding a distinct and thrilling twist to each battle.

    Campaign and Setting

    The campaign in Red Orchestra 2 is more of an additional feature rather than a central focus. It doesn’t provide a structured storyline but instead offers a collection of loosely connected bot battles paired with short historical texts, which lack deep dramatic impact. Nevertheless, the game offers a detailed and realistic representation of the Battle of Stalingrad, one of WWII’s most fierce confrontations. This campaign content is only available in the complete version of RO 2. With Rising Storm, the attention turns to the Pacific Theater, allowing players to engage in key conflicts like the battles for Iwo Jima, Saipan, and Guadalcanal, vividly recreating the intense rivalry between the United States and the Empire of Japan during some of the war’s most iconic and fiercely contested battles.

    Reception and Criticism

    In its review, the German gaming magazine GameStar lauded Red Orchestra 2 for its exceptional realism. The reviewers emphasized the authentic weapon mechanics, realistic hit effects, and gameplay that heavily stresses strategic cooperation. They also praised the skillful map design and immersive audio, which collectively foster a gripping and intense wartime atmosphere.

    Nonetheless, RO 2 has its flaws. The challenging learning curve can be intimidating, particularly for new players, with harsh hit feedback and limited in-game help often causing early frustration. GameStar also pointed out the single-player mode’s lackluster AI. From a visual perspective, the game shows its age, and matchmaking can be slow depending on the time of day and player count. According to SteamDB, the shooter had a peak of only 333 concurrent players within a 24-hour period when researched, indicating a decline in its active player community.

    Overall Reception and Pricing

    Red Orchestra 2 garnered positive reviews from critics and gamers alike, though opinions slightly differ by platform. GameStar rated the game a robust 85 out of 100, highlighting its realism and tactical complexity. On Metacritic, critics assigned it a decent Metascore of 76, while users rated it slightly lower at 7.3. On Steam, the feedback is notably more favorable, with nearly 25,000 user reviews, and 93% recommending the title.

    Developed by Tripwire Interactive, Red Orchestra 2 was first launched in 2011, with the independent expansion Rising Storm released in 2013. The bundle Red Orchestra 2: Heroes of Stalingrad with Rising Storm usually retails for $30 on Steam. Currently, as part of the Steam Wargames Fest, the tactical shooter is available at a massive 90% discount – only $3 until May 5. According to SteamDB, this price was last recorded in early March, suggesting that such extensive discounts, while noteworthy, are not uncommon.

    Source:
    Link

  • Military Sim with 200K+ Reviews Now Just $5 in Steam Sale

    Military Sim with 200K+ Reviews Now Just $5 in Steam Sale

    Key Takeaways

    1. Realism and Tactical Gameplay: Arma 3 focuses on realistic combat, requiring smart planning and tactics instead of easy wins.

    2. Single-Player Limitations: The single-player campaign features a weak storyline and unpredictable AI, leading to mixed player reviews.

    3. Multiplayer Excellence: The multiplayer mode supports up to 60 players, emphasizing teamwork and strategy, with extensive role variety and a robust mission editor.

    4. Enduring Popularity: Since its release in 2013, Arma 3 has maintained a strong player base, with over 10,000 peak players, bolstered by an active modding community.

    5. Critiques and Reception: While praised for its immersive experience and multiplayer features, the game has faced criticism for its AI, steep learning curve, and lack of guidance for newcomers.


    If you want to take down hordes of foes like an action movie star, then Arma 3 might not be your best bet. Instead, it immerses players in the boots of a regular soldier in a harsh, realistic combat environment, leaving no space for easy wins. The game emphasizes realism: the way weapons are handled, how characters move, and their vulnerabilities are all depicted convincingly, making smart planning and tactical strategies essential for survival. The expansive maps of Altis and Stratis together cover over 110 square miles, making them some of the largest in the shooting game genre.

    Single-Player Experience

    In the single-player campaign, you assume the character of soldier Ben Kerry, who is caught in a fictional conflict on the Mediterranean island of Stratis, where tensions between NATO and CSAT, an alliance of authoritarian nations led by Iran, are escalating. The narrative unfolds over three episodes and includes a mix of defensive tasks, guerrilla tactics, and grand-scale warfare. However, many players find it somewhat lacking due to unpredictable AI, a sluggish storyline, and the absence of a cooperative mode.

    Multiplayer Modes

    The true essence of Arma 3 shines in its multiplayer aspect. Cooperative missions can accommodate up to 60 players, enabling large-scale operations where teamwork, strategic planning, and communication are vital. Whether you’re acting as a sniper, pilot, medic, or tank commander, the variety of roles is nearly endless. The PvP experience is also more intricate than what most shooters provide, featuring intense tactical confrontations in classic game types like King of the Hill and Domination. With a robust mission editor, gamers can design and share custom scenarios, adding immense variety and long-lasting replay value for both cooperative and competitive play. For those who seek tactical depth, Arma 3 is a treasure trove. However, new players and those who prefer solo play should prepare for a challenging learning curve—this game isn’t forgiving to beginners.

    Development and Reception

    Arma 3 was created by Bohemia Interactive and made its debut in September 2013. After the single-player campaign was fully released, the German gaming magazine GameStar reviewed the title in March 2014, commending its immersive battlefield atmosphere, extensive game world, and rich multiplayer options. A notable highlight is the powerful mission editor, which, along with an active modding community, has helped keep the game thriving and relevant for over ten years. According to SteamDB, Arma 3 continues to attract over 10,000 players at peak times, showcasing its enduring allure.

    Critiques and Scores

    Despite its numerous strengths, Arma 3 has faced some criticism. GameStar noted problems with erratic AI and a lackluster solo campaign. Coupled with complicated controls and limited guidance for newcomers, the steep learning curve can quickly grow frustrating. Nevertheless, the positives evidently outweigh the negatives—GameStar awarded it a solid score of 79 out of 100. Metacritic’s reception mirrors this, with a Metascore of 74 and a User Score of 7.6. On Steam, however, Arma 3 enjoys even higher accolades, as nearly 90% of approximately 215,000 user reviews are positive.

    Pricing and Discounts

    Typically, Arma 3 retails for around $30 on Steam, but during the Wargames Fest, it is currently being offered at an 84% discount, reducing the price to under $5 until May 5. The Ultimate Edition, which includes all DLCs from Bohemia Interactive (excluding Creator DLCs), is also discounted by 65%, now priced at about $42. Those who can wait may find an even better offer; according to SteamDB, the game was previously discounted by 88% in March.

    Source:
    Link

  • Third-Person Shooter Sale: Now $4.50 with 50K+ Reviews

    Third-Person Shooter Sale: Now $4.50 with 50K+ Reviews

    Key Takeaways

    1. Gameplay Focus: Sniper Elite 4 emphasizes realistic sniper mechanics and stealth gameplay, maintaining its core strengths without major changes from previous versions.

    2. Open World Missions: Players have the freedom to approach missions in various ways, although enemy AI can be inconsistent, and melee combat may feel clunky.

    3. Mixed Player Feedback: While praised for exciting sniper gameplay and diverse maps, critiques include a weak storyline, repetitive missions, and inconsistent AI.

    4. Multiplayer Modes: Co-op play is well-received for its strategic elements, but the PvP mode struggles to fit with the game’s tactical pacing.

    5. Current Offers: Significant discounts are available on Sniper Elite 4, with the standard edition priced around $4.50 and the Deluxe Edition at approximately $6.70.


    Developed by Rebellion Developments and launched in 2017, Sniper Elite 4 is a third-person shooter set in 1943. Players take on the role of the elite sniper Karl Fairburne, dispatched to the Italian front by US intelligence to disrupt fascist troops and eliminate an emerging threat to the Allies. Although the narrative isn’t the game’s strongest aspect, its sniper mechanics and stealth gameplay provide a solid experience for fans of tactical shooters.

    Gameplay Mechanics

    Sniper Elite 4 doesn’t bring any groundbreaking gameplay changes compared to its predecessor but remains focused on its core strength: realistic sniper mechanics. Bullets travel along a precise path, considering wind, distance, and breath control. The iconic kill-cam offers satisfying slow-motion visuals as bullets break bones and rip through organs. Stealth is crucial, enabling players to quietly take out enemies, erase their tracks, and use sound to lead guards into traps.

    Open World Missions

    The open mission spaces in Sniper Elite 4 give players a lot of freedom in how they approach challenges. Whether you prefer taking long-range shots with sound-covering tactics, quiet takedowns using distractions, or setting traps for calculated chaos, the options are plenty. However, the enemy AI is often criticized; sometimes it spots bodies from a great distance, while at other times, it overlooks clear threats. Melee combat can also feel awkward compared to the fluid stealth features found in other games of the same kind. In addition to the solo campaign, Sniper Elite 4 offers a co-op mode for completing missions with a friend and a PvP mode where players can challenge each other in tactical sniper competitions.

    Player Feedback

    What stands out most to players in Sniper Elite 4 is its exciting sniper gameplay, adaptable stealth mechanics, and wide-ranging, diverse maps. Nonetheless, some critiques mention the weak storyline, inconsistent AI, and lack of innovation, as many gameplay elements remain the same as in earlier versions. While the missions provide variety, a few can become repetitive due to their similar formats.

    The multiplayer aspect of Sniper Elite 4 has received mixed feedback. Co-op play is well-designed and promotes strategic teamwork, but the classic PvP mode feels somewhat out of sync, given that the game’s slow, tactical rhythm doesn’t easily fit into standard multiplayer battles. Despite these issues, the game boasts about 50,000 reviews on Steam, with 91% being favorable. On Metacritic, scores are a bit lower because of its identified flaws, with a Metascore of 78 and a User Score of 7.1.

    Current Offers

    Currently, the official retailer Fanatical is offering Sniper Elite 4 at a significant discount. The standard edition is priced at roughly $4.50, down from its regular price of $60. The Deluxe Edition, which includes extra missions, weapons, skins, and characters, is also marked down by 93%, reducing the price to about $6.70 from $90. Purchasing from Fanatical provides a Steam key for activation. However, the timeframe for these deals is not specified, so interested gamers might want to act quickly.

    Source:
    Link

  • 1 Million Steam Reviews: Co-Op Shooter Now Just $4 with Discount

    1 Million Steam Reviews: Co-Op Shooter Now Just $4 with Discount

    Key Takeaways

    1. Gameplay Dynamics: Tom Clancy’s Rainbow Six Siege features 5v5 combat with players choosing between attackers and defenders, utilizing unique operators with specialized abilities.

    2. Tactical Objectives: Attackers aim to complete objectives like rescuing hostages, while defenders fortify positions using barricades and gadgets, emphasizing strategic gameplay.

    3. Community and Popularity: The game has a strong player base, ranking 23rd on Steam and regularly hosting over 80,000 players, thanks to its depth and evolving meta despite some challenges for beginners.

    4. Reviews and Ratings: Rainbow Six Siege has received over 1.15 million reviews on Steam with 84% positive feedback, a Metascore of 79, and a User Score of 7.0 on Metacritic.

    5. Promotional Offers: Ubisoft is offering significant discounts on Rainbow Six Siege and related editions until March 13, with prices reduced by up to 80%.


    Released on December 1, 2015, by Ubisoft, Tom Clancy’s Rainbow Six Siege managed to turn around its initial struggles and has become a leading tactical multiplayer shooter. According to SteamDB, it is now ranked 23rd among the most-played games, regularly hosting over 80,000 players online at the same time.

    Gameplay Mechanics

    In Siege, players engage in 5v5 combat, choosing to play as either attackers or defenders. This is different from Counter-Strike, which features a “terrorists vs. special forces” dynamic. Rather, the game showcases elite units battling against each other. Teams are made up of diverse counterterrorism and military special forces known as operators. Each operator comes equipped with distinct abilities and specialized equipment that influence both strategy and the overall gameplay experience.

    Objectives and Strategies

    Attackers in Siege have specific goals, often focused on rescuing a hostage or defusing explosives, while defenders work to secure their territory and thwart the attackers. They can use wooden panels to barricade entrances and reinforce walls with metal sheets. A variety of gadgets like barbed wire, traps, and surveillance cameras enhance their defensive options. The game is particularly notable for its destructible environment, where walls, floors, and ceilings can be breached, making it impossible to find a completely safe spot. With just one life available each round, every choice is crucial; one misstep can result in an early exit, forcing players to watch the remainder of the match as observers.

    Community and Challenges

    Rainbow Six Siege has gained popularity due to its strategic, team-oriented gameplay and remarkable depth. The diverse selection of operators and intricate, destructible maps create endless tactical opportunities, alongside a constantly changing meta that challenges players continuously. However, the complexity of the game’s mechanics can be daunting for beginners trying to learn the ropes.

    Matchmaking can occasionally lead to frustration, and Ubisoft’s focus on aggressive monetization, through microtransactions and battle passes, has received some backlash. Nevertheless, the game continues to enjoy strong ratings. On Steam, Rainbow Six Siege has earned over 1.15 million reviews, with 84% positive feedback. It also boasts a Metascore of 79 and a User Score of 7.0 on Metacritic.

    Special Offers

    Until March 13, players can find Rainbow Six Siege on Steam at a significant 80% discount, dropping the price from $20 to only $4. The Deluxe Edition costs $6 instead of $30, while the Operator Edition is reduced to $28 from $70. The Ultimate Edition now sells for $40, down from $90. The Deluxe Edition includes the main game along with 16 Operators from the first two years. For those seeking a wider array of options, the Operator Edition unlocks all 50 Operators from Years 1 through 8. The Ultimate Edition includes the same content but also comes with the Disruptor Cosmetic Pack, featuring exclusive skins.

    Ubisoft is currently running a promotional sale, offering discounts of up to 85% on a variety of AAA titles, including Far Cry 3 and Anno 1800.

    Source:
    Link

  • Tactical Shooter on Steam Now Just $4 – 90% Off Limited Time

    Tactical Shooter on Steam Now Just $4 – 90% Off Limited Time

    Key Takeaways

    1. Tactical Gameplay: Players assume the role of Raven, focusing on long-distance sniping with realistic mechanics that consider wind, bullet trajectory, and more.

    2. Sandbox Environment: The game features five large, non-linear maps that allow players to explore, sneak, and approach missions with stealth or direct combat.

    3. Visual Highlights: Successful shots are showcased with stunning slow-motion visuals, enhanced by a bullet cam feature that emphasizes headshots and critical hits.

    4. Critical Reception: The game has received positive feedback from 84% of over 10,000 Steam reviews, though it faces criticism for microtransactions and a predictable storyline.

    5. Current Pricing: Sniper: Ghost Warrior Contracts 2 is available for $4 after a 90% price cut, making it a compelling purchase for sniper fans until February 24.


    Sniper: Ghost Warrior Contracts 2 is an engaging tactical first-person shooter that combines authentic sniping with a sandbox-style gameplay. Players take on the persona of Raven, a skilled marksman dispatched to the Middle East to take down a criminal group. The main focus is on long-distance sniping, with targets positioned beyond 1,000 meters. To achieve accuracy, players need to factor in elements such as wind, bullet trajectory, breath control, and the type of ammunition used. Stunning slow-motion visuals highlight successful headshots and critical hits through a bullet cam feature.

    Expansive Gameplay

    In Contracts 2, there are five large sandbox maps featuring missions that aren’t linear. Players have the ability to explore their surroundings, mark enemies, and sneak into hostile territory. While the game encourages a stealthy approach, players who lean towards a more direct combat style can also engage in head-on battles. Although it does not include typical multiplayer formats like deathmatch or sniper duels, players can challenge themselves by beating their best times, fulfilling challenges, and finding different ways to carry out assassinations.

    Critical Reception

    Created by Underdog Studios and published by CI Games in 2021, Sniper: Ghost Warrior Contracts 2 has garnered over 10,000 reviews on Steam, with 84% of those being positive. On Metacritic, it boasts a Metascore of 73 and a User Score of 7.1. The main criticisms focus on the presence of microtransactions, which many gamers and reviewers find annoying in a single-player experience. The storyline also received a mix of feedback, often labeled as dull and predictable. Nonetheless, if you’re seeking sniper gameplay, now might be an ideal moment to purchase Contracts 2. Originally listed at $40, it’s currently offered for just $4 due to a significant 90% price cut, which is available until February 24.

    Prices can vary. The deal was valid at the time this article was written, but it may have time or quantity restrictions. All details provided are without guarantee.

    Source:
    Link

  • Free Tactical Extraction Shooter Now Available on Steam

    Free Tactical Extraction Shooter Now Available on Steam

    Exfil, a game crafted by Misultin Studios in collaboration with publisher MicroProse Software, made its Early Access debut on December 11, 2024. This launch coincided with the Zone Alpha update, which not only brings a fresh game mode but also expands the selection of weapons. Additionally, there is a free promotion on Steam that will last until February 3.

    Gameplay Overview

    Taking cues from Escape From Tarkov, Exfil opts to minimize the extensive loot grind, focusing instead on teamwork and strategic gameplay. Nevertheless, the traditional extraction gameplay is still essential to the experience. Players can join in teams of up to eight and drop into one of six available maps, engaging in battles to secure mission goals. The game features a vast array of realistic firearms and meticulously designed ballistics that lead to thrilling PvP confrontations. With a dynamic 24-hour day-night cycle and unpredictable weather patterns, teams are required to frequently adjust their tactics.

    Player Reception

    As of the time of this report, Exfil has accumulated 144 reviews on Steam, with a rating of 71% indicating “mostly positive” feedback. Many critiques are directed at the game’s outdated graphics, subpar sound design, and lack of polish in gameplay. Normally, Exfil is priced at $29.99 on Steam; however, it is currently offered at a 20% discount until February 6, lowering the price to $23.99. Despite the negative feedback, enthusiasts of realistic shooters may still find Exfil appealing, particularly since it is free to play until February 3.

    Prices may vary. The promotion was valid at the time this article was written but can be limited by time or availability. All provided information is without guarantee.

    Source:
    Link

  • Tactical FPS Game 40% Off on Steam for Limited Time!

    Tactical FPS Game 40% Off on Steam for Limited Time!

    Void Interactive, the creators behind Ready or Not, is offering a limited-time sale on Steam with a 40% discount. The game, which launched in 2023, draws its inspiration from realistic shooter games such as SWAT and Rainbow Six.

    Focus on Strategy and Teamwork

    Similar to these games, Ready or Not places a strong emphasis on planning and collaboration. The developers worked with police teams from around the world to make sure the game reflects the authentic rules of engagement. It also features sophisticated weapon handling and a unique player movement system that adds to the immersion.

    Engage in High-Stakes Missions

    In this game, players take on the role of the leader of an elite SWAT unit, facing a variety of missions like hostage rescues, bomb threats, takedowns, and covert operations. Your objective, along with your team, is to eliminate crime in Los Suenos.

    A tablet holds the mission details to help you strategize with your team and plan your attack. You will find an extensive range of equipment to customize in your loadout, and players are encouraged to carefully consider their choices. The gear is divided into three main categories: Lethal, Non-Lethal, and Tactical Equipment.

    Positive Reception on Steam

    Ready or Not has earned a “Very Positive” rating on Steam, with 89% of user reviews being favorable. The standard price for the game is $49.99 (€49.99 or £44.99), but during the sale, you can get it for just $29.99 (€29.99 or £26.99) until January 20th.

    Source:
    Link

  • New Roguelike Co-Op Shooter Trailer from Black Mesa Developers

    New Roguelike Co-Op Shooter Trailer from Black Mesa Developers

    The remake of Half-Life, known as Black Mesa, has received impressive ratings on Steam, with 95% of over 100,000 reviews being positive. There are high hopes for a new game from the developers based in the U.S. Crowbar Collective is set to release Rogue Point, their first original title in more than ten years, in partnership with publisher Team17. The game is expected to enter Early Access in 2025.

    Plot Overview

    The story kicks off with the death of the world’s richest CEO. In the aftermath, ruthless corporations, which can summon mercenary forces via the MERX app as easily as ordering a pizza, are vying to seize his empire. However, an independent vigilante group called Rogue Point is determined to thwart their plans.

    Gameplay Features

    True to its name, Rogue Point emphasizes roguelike gameplay. Players have the option to select from four unique maps: Airport, Shopping Center, Office, and Oil Platform. The game features a “Parametric Design System” that alters the maps with each session. Players team up to battle against enemy mercenaries in an effort to reclaim control of disputed territories. In addition to its main campaign, Rogue Point will offer a variety of tough endgame missions. At launch, gamers can expect to find 22 weapons, 25 attachments, and 55 cosmetic items available.

    Community Reactions

    On Reddit, the overall sentiment is mostly upbeat. Users have praised the creative mix of tactical shooter and roguelite characteristics, comparing it to titles like Ready or Not and Back 4 Blood. Nevertheless, some Reddit users express disappointment that Crowbar Collective seems to be moving away from the single-player shooter genre, as seen in Black Mesa.

    Source: Link