Review of Enlisted: Command Your Squad... if They Listen
Dive into chaotic WW2 battles in Enlisted, where the thrill of commanding a squad meets the frustration of questionable AI and multiplayer mayhem.
last updated Aug 27, 2024
Enlisted offers a unique take on squad-based shooter gameplay that seeks to blend tactics with raw combat in historical settings.
Gameplay Mechanics: Tactical Chaos or Just Chaotic?
Enlisted aims to capture the intricacies of World War II combat by placing players in the role of squad commanders. You aren't just running around like a lone wolf, but instead, you control a squad of soldiers, each equipped to handle a piece of the battlefield. Tactical gameplay mixes with shoots-and-loots in a blend that’s as chaotic as a WWII movie gone rogue. However, the enjoyment can be marred by the game’s questionable AI; many players find themselves wishing for smarter bots that don’t just blindly stroll into enemy fire or block your perfect shot. Add in some jankiness to the movement mechanics, and you've got a squad that's equal parts frustrating and occasionally hilarious. Ever thought you could make a great General? Think again, unless you’re prepared to guide some reluctant squadmates through the chaos.
Sounds of War: Echoes of History
While the gunfire and explosions might make you feel like you're in the trenches, the audio design is a mixed bag. On one hand, the immersive soundscapes pull you right into the heart of the action—bullets whizzing past your head and the thunder of tanks rolling forward. On the other, there's a static quality to many of the sound effects, with some players reporting a lack of clarity in footsteps and weapon sounds. If it sounds like your squad is dancing around the brick walls rather than engaging in a gunfight, that’s likely the cause of some frustration. Overall, it's not necessarily a dealbreaker, but it could use more attention than a hasty enemy sniper.
Visuals: A Battle of Aesthetic and Performance
Graphically, Enlisted shines in moments, boasting impressive landscapes and detailed world-building that can take your breath away—if it doesn’t crash first. The visuals aim to accurately depict the brutality of WWII, and to some extent, they succeed, giving players a glimpse into a well-crafted arena of warfare. However, the performance can suffer hiccups, with players reporting crashes—especially on lower-end systems—leaving you staring blankly at your screen when you thought you were about to orchestrate poetic glory on the battlefield. With an indie flavor, you might get some jagged edges, but overall, it's a commendable backdrop for strategic bloodshed, albeit one that could benefit from a few extra sessions in the polish booth.
The F2P Model: Strategies Beyond the Battlefield
Let’s talk about the business model that funds Enlisted's war zone: the free-to-play nature is both a blessing and a curse. On one hand, it's accessible to anyone with a functioning PC and the will to battle it out. On the other, the monetization practices, often dubbed predatory, can turn a satisfying experience into a grind fest that makes you feel like you're working for your virtual medals. Many players voiced frustration over being pitted against those who've opted to invest real money for gear upgrades—creating lopsided battles that feel more like a cash grab than a fair fight. Ultimately, while there is plenty of fun to be had without breaking the bank, expectations should be dialed back when it comes to equality in this free-to-play war simulation.
STEAM RATING
Developer
Darkflow Software
Publisher
Gaijin Network Ltd
Release Date
July 16, 2024
Verdict and Summary
Enlisted offers a unique take on squad-based shooter gameplay that seeks to blend tactics with raw combat in historical settings. Despite its feature-rich environment and immersive gunplay, it stumbles through the trenches of inefficient AI and a frustratingly unequal free-to-play model that can hinder enjoyment. The mix of chaotic fun and nerve-wracking frustration makes it a title worth trying, especially if you bring friends to share in both the victories worth celebrating and the misadventures worth laughing about. Just remember, when your squad mates run in front of your bullet, it's all part of the fun.