Kriegsfront Tactics – Prologue First Impressions – Mechs in the 70s

Just a little over a month ago, Toge Productions showed the vertical slice of Kriegsfront Tactics – Prologue. The game is essentially a demo of an upcoming turn-based mecha squad tactics game. Kriegsfront Tactics – Prologue will be officially released on PC via Steam on July 18, 2024. The full game: Kriegsfront Tactics does not have a release date as of yet.

Kriegsfront Tactics is an upcoming turn-based tactical game for military simulation enthusiasts, blending elements from classic strategy RPGs, roguelikes, and featuring low-poly retro-style visuals.

SEA-Inspired World

Since its announcement, it’s clear that Kriegsfront Tactics is situated in Southeast Asia, particularly in an alternate version of 1970s Indonesia. This becomes increasingly apparent as the gameplay unfolds.

In Kriegsfront Tactics, players control a squad of UOC Kriegs soldiers tasked with seizing control of Nusanesia, a region akin to Indonesia where indigenous rebels are battling for independence. The game offers a compelling viewpoint as players lead an outsider’s military campaign in a familiar but altered cultural setting.

The level design of the game captures a local atmosphere, showcasing elements such as tropical forests, villages reminiscent of Indonesia’s interior, historical monuments like temples, and a soundtrack that integrates traditional instruments. This combination creates a unique identity for Kriegsfront Tactics, as Toge Productions aims to ensure players recognize it as a game rooted in Indonesia.

Mecha Go Brrr

Kriegsfront Tactics is clearly inspired by the renowned Front Mission franchise, featuring tactical gameplay in expansive battlegrounds with a focus on positioning and mechas comprised of modular parts with individual HP. You can target specific parts of the mecha such as the arms carrying the main weapons, which will disable the enemies attack options. Be warned though, this logic applies to your mech as well.

In each main stage, you’ll encounter large-scale battles against groups of mecha Kriegs from Nusanesia. Initially, your field of view is limited to the enemy group, giving an advantage to whoever manages to ambush first. Each squad member in this part of the prologue has a unique specialty: Aaron with flexible combat power, Daisy as a sniper specializing in deadly long-range attacks, Ben excelling in close-range combat, and Chuck capable of devastating large areas with bombardments and missiles.

Since this is just the prologue, all we have for now are the 4 units mentioned above. Though, take this with a grain of salt, maybe we might have a chance of seeing this roster expand in the full game.

Where There’s a Strat, There’s a Way

In Kriegsfront Tactics, utilizing each squad member’s specialty is vital for their survival due to the significant impact of their position on safety. While you can still bring a squad consisting of each character using a missile as a main weapon, it is not advisable.

Most Kriegs possess an “Overwatch” ability, allowing them to automatically attack enemies within a designated area, complicating efforts to relocate safely. This ability is more so used as a way to observe enemy movements. Doing this consumes AP so bear that in mind.

This necessitates mutual support among squad members, enhancing the game’s challenge and emphasizing strategic planning. Actions are governed by each member’s AP, including weapon reloads, so we need to strategize on how to use our AP resourcefully.

Kriegsfront Tactics blends strategy gameplay with real-time elements, allowing counterattacks if AP remains and the enemy is within sight, with attack success affected by evasion rates. Aiming from a distance enhances accuracy, with first-person control to target specific body parts of Kriegs.

Beyond stage-based combat, the game features exploration on a world map, where squads interact with facilities, replenish supplies, and encounter enemy patrols. Players have freedom to engage or bypass dangers, enhancing immersion in the game’s early stages.

Customization

A game like this wouldn’t be complete without a customization feature to build your dream mecha. Kriegsfront Tactics offers Garage access, allowing you to customize every limb of your mecha and choose its weaponry. If you’re familiar with this type of game or other recent examples like Armored Core 6, you’ll find similar options here. The customization choices are quite comprehensive, including the ability to adjust the color and pattern combinations of your Kriegs. For those who prefer not to design their style, there’s a special button that provides a random design combination.

Thoughts So Far

From what the prologue of Kriegsfront Tactics has shown so far, I see the potential for a mecha strategy game truly worth anticipating. Drawing inspiration from iconic franchises like Front Mission, Toge Productions has crafted a solid gameplay foundation that’s enough to keep me engaged.

The process of carefully planning, anticipating enemy moves, and seeing your tactics play out successfully is highly rewarding. It validates your strategic thinking, attention to detail, and ability to adapt to changing scenarios. This sense of accomplishment is a key factor in the appeal of tactical games.

Kriegsfront Tactics

Publisher: Toge Productions

Developer: Toge Productions

Release Date TBC

Steam

Set in alternate 1970s during an era of conflict in Southeast Asia, you'll play as a commander of a mecha squad sent behind enemy lines. Manage your squad, resources, and mechs. Complete missions and survive the front another day while facing hard decisions that will test your morality.

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