Broken Arrow Review: A Modern RTS Powerhouse With Muscle and Grit
Real-time strategy games have been making a quiet resurgence, and Broken Arrow crashes into the scene with the kind of impact that makes strategy fans sit up straight. Imagine World in Conflict spent six months in the gym, pumped on protein shakes, and yelling about flanking maneuvers—Broken Arrow is exactly that. It's big, it's bold, and it’s unrelentingly tactical. But does it have the polish and staying power to stand alongside the titans of the genre like Supreme Commander or Command & Conquer?
Real-time strategy games have been making a quiet resurgence, and Broken Arrow crashes into the scene with the kind of impact that makes strategy fans sit up straight. Imagine World in Conflict spent six months in the gym, pumped on protein shakes, and yelling about flanking maneuvers—Broken Arrow is exactly that. It's big, it's bold, and it’s unrelentingly tactical. But does it have the polish and staying power to stand alongside the titans of the genre like Supreme Commander or Command & Conquer?
Let’s dive into the battlefield.
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No Base Building, No Nonsense – Just War
Broken Arrow has a number of nail biting singleplayer missions
Broken Arrow throws the old-school RTS playbook out the window. There’s no base building, no resource gathering, no constructing barracks or power plants. Instead, it embraces a modern, combat-focused approach: you earn battlefield points and spend them to deploy infantry, tanks, helicopters, and jets wherever the action is hot. Much like other games in the genre like Warno.
This shift places strategy and battlefield awareness at the forefront. Whether it’s deploying a recon squad to scout enemy positions or launching a precision airstrike, every decision feels weighty. One misstep, and you could lose an entire armored column to a well-placed ambush.
The game's structure leans into dynamic warfare with combined arms tactics. It’s all about movement, positioning, and flexibility. In one mission, taking a town seemed straightforward—until the player flanked a beach and triggered an unexpected firefight, splitting the battle in two. These unpredictable moments give the gameplay a heartbeat and force players to adapt on the fly. Most importantly, no one unit can dominate the battle alone. Different unit types have to be used together in order to achieve victory.
Combat That Commands Respect
Broken Arrow might not always look the best, but the vehicles look fantastic
The combat in Broken Arrow is nothing short of exhilarating. The rock-paper-scissors mechanics—tanks beat infantry, infantry beats air, air beats tanks—are just the foundation. What makes it shine is the depth added through unit interactions, line of sight, terrain advantages, and the importance of range.
Engagements feel grounded in real military logic. Spotting an enemy first often means the difference between victory and a fiery death. Tanks are terrifying, but even they can be neutralized by hidden Javelin squads tucked in a tree line. Vehicles can lose mobility, optics, and firepower. Infantry gets suppressed, panics, and retreats. This isn't arcade combat—this is tactical chess at 100 miles per hour.
Supply lines also play a subtle but crucial role. Units run out of ammo over time, and supply trucks or airdrops must be used to keep them operational. Thankfully, it's streamlined—support arrives, and units resupply within a defined radius. It never becomes a micromanagement chore but still teaches the importance of planning and logistics.
If there's one word to define Broken Arrow's combat, it’s “range.” The entire gameplay loop is built around visibility, line of sight, and engagement distances. From recon units spotting ahead to jets bombing targets with laser guidance, the game makes every engagement feel intentional and strategic.
Campaign Weaknesses, But Explosive Fun
Singleplayer missions have fantastic detailed briefings, though the characters do fall a little flat
Let’s not mince words—the story is forgettable. It’s the usual America vs. Russia, Cold War goes hot, cliché-filled affair. Voice acting tends to be kind of melodramatic. This isn’t where Broken Arrow flexes.
But that’s okay—nobody is playing this for Oscar-worthy drama or unique storytelling. Missions themselves are where the campaign redeems its weak narrative. Objectives often reflect realistic military goals—secure a beachhead, hold a crossroads, repel an armored assault. These are grounded scenarios that reward tactical thinking.
Additionally, the game doesn't punish failure harshly. If you lose a control point, you're given the opportunity to retake it. That forgiving structure ensures each mission feels like a prolonged, engaging battle rather than a frustrating trial-and-error slog.
Visuals, Performance, and Sound: A Mixed Bag
Broken Arrow excels at complex missions that force you to think tactically. In single and multiplayer
Let’s talk graphics. Unit models look great—clean, crisp, and impressively detailed. Particle effects and explosions are especially satisfying, with missiles trailing smoke and debris flying in every direction. When the battlefield lights up, it’s a sight to behold.
However, terrain and environmental assets are a letdown. Trees look muddy and low-res until you zoom in, and buildings are clearly copy-pasted across maps. The overall aesthetic lacks organic variation, with sharp angles and repetitive geometry that feel at odds with the otherwise realistic combat. The maps look very different, but often have large sections that feel very samey.
Even more concerning is performance. On a top-tier GPU like the RTX 5090, the game still stutters and struggles to maintain consistent frame rates. The GPU gets hammered while the CPU barely breaks a sweat, pointing to optimization issues. No DLSS support at launch only makes things worse for players with mid-range rigs.
Thankfully, Broken Arrow redeems itself with exceptional sound design. Artillery shells scream overhead, jets roar past, and infantry shout orders under fire. Directional sound cues and layered effects create a deeply immersive soundscape that genuinely elevates every battle. Though like in any RTS you will quickly start to recognize the same unit barks being repeated over and over again.
Multiplayer Depth and Tactical Deck Building
Outside the campaign, Broken Arrow introduces deck-building mechanics that allow players to create their own custom force compositions. With 10,000 points to spend and caps to prevent overstacking one unit type, you can build balanced, specialized, or outright ridiculous decks. Want a sky full of bombers? Go for it—just know you’ll pay the price in versatility.
The main thing that makes Broken Arrow stand out from every other RTS I’ve played is just how fully fleshed out its combined arms gameplay is. A lot of games like WARNO have decent combined arms mechanics, but artillery and backline micro never feel quite as impactful there as they do here.
In Broken Arrow, every part of your force has to work together seamlessly for you to succeed. Your artillery, air power, anti-air, armor, and infantry all play critical roles in every match. That’s the magic of the tactics in this game – it’s not about spamming one unit type. It’s about coordinating your entire military force like an actual commander.
Final Verdict
Broken Arrow doesn’t just borrow from past RTS greats—it builds on their legacy. It respects the player’s intelligence, rewards smart decisions, and offers a sandbox of modern warfare that feels alive and dangerous. Yes, the story is flat, the visuals uneven, and the optimization needs serious work. But when it comes to gameplay—the heart and soul of any RTS—it absolutely delivers.
If you're a strategy fan who’s missed the glory days of World in Conflict and Supreme Commander, Broken Arrow is a triumphant return to form. It’s not perfect, but it’s powerful, promising, and—most importantly—fun.
Score: 8/10 – RTS is back, and it means business.
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Call to Arms: Gates of Hell - Ostfront: Best Units for USA Germany And USSR in Conquest Mode
In this detailed guide, we’ll explore the top 10 units for three major factions: the USA, Germany, and the USSR. These selections are not only based on sheer combat effectiveness but also their cost-efficiency, research accessibility, and versatility throughout various Conquest stages.
Call to Arms: Gates of Hell - Ostfront is a hardcore World War II real-time tactics game that emphasizes historical authenticity, tactical depth, and strategic variety. One of the core gameplay pillars in Conquest mode is selecting and upgrading units effectively across different nations. With limited research points and manpower, every choice matters.
In this detailed guide, we’ll explore the top 10 units for three major factions: the USA, Germany, and the USSR. These selections are not only based on sheer combat effectiveness but also their cost-efficiency, research accessibility, and versatility throughout various Conquest stages.
Note: The Finnish forces are also a contender in the game, especially their infantry, but they are not covered in this guide.
Top 10 Best USA Units in Call to Arms: Gates of Hell - Ostfront
The United States military in Gates of Hell: Ostfront offers a flexible balance of elite infantry, mobile firepower, and powerful support units. These top 10 picks highlight the USA’s strengths in firepower, survivability, and combined-arms effectiveness.
The USA’s Late war Stuart Gates of Hell: Ostfront unit
Veteran Rifle Squad
A surprisingly effective choice. With two Browning Automatic Rifles (BARs), rifle grenadiers, and solid health and regen stats, these squads offer a noticeable firepower boost over standard infantry. They’re accessible early, affordable, and lead into elite units like the Rangers.101st Airborne
This is arguably the best infantry unit for the USA. With two BARs, two Thompsons, a 30-cal machine gun, M9 bazooka, and multiple grenade types, the 101st brings immense firepower. Their health and stamina are excellent, making them capable of punching above their weight in nearly any combat scenario.3-Inch Gun M5 (M1 Carriage)
An exceptional anti-tank asset. With 161mm of penetration and a wide gun shield, this towed gun provides consistent reliability against medium to heavy armor. It’s better than its counterpart, the M6, in terms of both performance and survivability.75mm M1A1 Pack Howitzer
This is the second variant with a gun shield and heat rounds. Lightweight (two tow weight), mobile, and extremely versatile, it handles light armor, infantry, and emplacements efficiently. A must-have for a cheap anti tank weapon that can still stay mobile with a cheap truck.M16 MGMC Quad .50 Cal
A terror against infantry and light vehicles. The quad-mounted .50 cals on a half-track platform offer a devastating rate of fire. It also serves as effective anti-air and suppresses enemy units with ease. It’s a machine gun on steroids… because it’s 4 heavy machine guns.M20 Armored Utility Car
This seemingly unremarkable unit hides a secret—it carries a bazooka. Light, fast, and equipped with a .50 cal, it offers early anti-tank capabilities when infantry may lack punch. It’s also cheap and has decent survivability.M3 Stuart (Late Variant)
What sets this variant apart is its complement of five .30 caliber machine guns. With a 37mm cannon, decent armor, and speed, this tank becomes a mobile bullet storm. An excellent light tank for early and mid-game, especially at suppressing infantry.M4A3E8 Sherman 76mm (Field Mod)
Strong armor, excellent penetration, and a massive ammo supply for its .50 cal make this the best Sherman variant. It’s a top-tier medium tank with improved survivability and offensive capability.90mm GMC M36
This tank destroyer brings heavy firepower with 171mm penetration. Although open-topped and vulnerable to HE, it excels at ambushes and long-range AT roles. A tank hunter’s dream. Can prevent enemy tanks from advancing over a wide area.105mm HMC M7 Priest
A self-propelled gun with solid high-explosive power and mobility. Though open-topped, it brings potent indirect fire and versatility to American forces, making it a great late-game support choice.
Top 10 Best German Units in Call to Arms: Gates of Hell - Ostfront
Germany’s military forces boast powerful tanks, exceptional support weapons, and well-equipped infantry. While sometimes expensive or requiring deep research, their top units dominate when used strategically.
Germany’s Panzer 3 Ausf. N Gates of Hell: Ostfront unit
Blue Division (Spanische Blau Division)
Incredible cost-efficiency and stats. They boast elite-tier health and stamina (on par with Fallschirmjäger) and come with an MG34, semi-auto rifles, and a solid grenade loadout. Easily one of the best infantry for cost.Panzerjäger I
Early game anti-tank capability for a low cost. Armed with a 4.7cm gun with decent penetration, this lightly armored tank destroyer is great for handling light and medium threats. Quick to unlock and devastating early on and through to the mid game.7.5cm LeIG 18 Light Infantry Gun
The best all-around support weapon. It offers both HE and HEAT shells, capable of eliminating infantry, buildings, and even light armor. Low pop cap and high fire rate make it a staple support unit. Fantastic for backing up infantry with direct fire.Brandenburgers
Elite stealth infantry. With MG42s, good stats, and the stealth perk, they are ideal for ambushes and recon sabotage. Their versatility and high damage make them a strong offensive asset.Flammpanzerwagen Sd.Kfz. 251/16
Best flame support vehicle. Comes with dual flamethrowers and an MG42. While lightly armored, it’s cheap, mobile, and can incinerate entire enemy squads in seconds. Just be careful where you put it.Panzer III Ausf. N
Medium support tank with a short 75mm gun. Its HEAT rounds are excellent for anti-armor roles, while HE clears infantry. Affordable and effective, especially in urban or mixed combat zones.StuH 42
A heavy-hitting assault gun with a 10.5cm main gun. Capable of dealing with fortified positions and heavy armor thanks to powerful HE and HEAT ammo. Resilient and useful throughout mid to late game.Grille (3cm Mk 103 variant)
Insanely high rate of fire and good armor penetration. Equipped with a 3cm auto-cannon and high magazine capacity, it’s deadly against infantry and light vehicles. A rare but potent support option.Jagdpanther
Arguably the best heavy tank destroyer for the Germans. Combines King Tiger firepower (88mm gun) with better mobility and slightly lower cost. Its sloped armor provides strong protection, making it a late-game menace.Tiger I Ausf. H
Iconic and deadly. Comes with smoke launchers, thick armor, and the infamous 88mm gun. While expensive and high on the research tree, its battlefield dominance makes it worth the cost in most Conquest campaigns.
Top 10 Best Soviet Units in Call to Arms: Gates of Hell - Ostfront
The USSR shines in aggressive, cost-effective units with overwhelming firepower. Soviet units often offer better survivability and value, even if they sometimes lack the finesse of Western counterparts.
The Soviets’ SU 100 Gates of Hell: Ostfront unit
Assault Engineers (Sapper Squad)
Armored, high health, and equipped with PPSh-41s and flamethrowers. These elite infantry squads dominate close-quarters combat. Tough, deadly, and well-armed.Ampulomet
This underrated incendiary launcher is cheap and horrifyingly effective. Lob fire bombs at enemy infantry, buildings, and even tanks. Excellent for terror and area denial.57mm ZiS-2 AT Gun
High-velocity anti-tank gun with outstanding penetration. Fast firing, long-ranged, and devastating to enemy armor. A must-have in the mid to late stages.120mm Mortar
Versatile and powerful. Comes with HE, smoke, and incendiary shells. Offers extended range and tactical utility unmatched by other nation’s mortars.BM-31-12 Andryusha (Katyusha)
The most devastating rocket artillery system. Expensive, but it wipes entire zones with 12 massive 300mm rockets. Ideal for breaking entrenched positions or devastating AI bases.T-60 Light Tank
Armed with a 20mm autocannon, this light tank shreds infantry and light vehicles. Cheap, nimble, and excellent for early game rushes or support.KV-8 Flame Tank
Massive armor and a powerful flamethrower. This heavy support tank is a walking inferno that’s extremely difficult to destroy. Great for leading urban assaults.SU-100
One of the best Soviet tank destroyers. Armed with a 100mm gun and good armor, it makes short work of Tigers and Panthers. High pop cap, but extremely lethal.SU-122
Combines 122mm HE power with HEAT rounds for armor penetration. Great for both anti-tank and anti-personnel roles. Mobile and surprisingly affordable for what it offers.IS-2 Model 1945
One of the strongest heavy tanks in the game. Exceptional armor, a powerful 122mm gun, and a .50 cal make it ideal for spearheading late-game offensives. Tough, impactful, and visually imposing.
Conclusion: Choosing the Right Tools for Victory
Each nation in Call to Arms: Gates of Hell - Ostfront offers a distinct playstyle. The USA excels with versatile and mobile combined-arms tactics, Germany leverages elite troops and high-tech support, while the USSR floods the field with armored behemoths and cost-efficient firepower.
Whichever faction you prefer, these top units provide a powerful foundation for any Conquest campaign. Whether you're laying down suppressive fire with quad .50s, sneaking Brandenburgers behind enemy lines, or unleashing a hellstorm with Andryusha rockets, mastering these units can make the difference between victory and defeat.
While this article covers only the three primary factions, don't sleep on the Finnish forces—though smaller in scale, they bring unique capabilities that deserve their own spotlight.
Intravenous 2 Review: Tactical Stealth Done Right or a Trial-and-Error Slog?
Intravenous 2 is a game that doesn’t try to win you over. It’s unapologetically niche, gritty in tone, and deeply committed to its stealth-driven gameplay roots. As a sequel to the original cult indie hit, it continues with the same thematic and mechanical DNA. For returning fans, this might be a welcome refinement. For newcomers, however, it may be an acquired taste — or a frustrating experience.
Intravenous 2 is a game that doesn’t try to win you over. It’s unapologetically niche, gritty in tone, and deeply committed to its stealth-driven gameplay roots. As a sequel to the original cult indie hit, it continues with the same thematic and mechanical DNA. For returning fans, this might be a welcome refinement. For newcomers, however, it may be an acquired taste — or a frustrating experience.
Where many games try to cast a wide net of appeal, Intravenous 2 leans into a very specific vision: hyper-lethal stealth combined with tactical gameplay. The question is whether that vision is executed with enough finesse to make it enjoyable — or if its uncompromising nature becomes a barrier to wider appeal.
Intravenous 2 Review -Gameplay & Mechanics
The first thing players will notice is the visual style: a top-down perspective reminiscent of games like Hotline Miami. However, that’s where the similarity ends. While Hotline Miami thrived on twitchy reflexes, high-octane action, and quick deaths followed by even quicker retries, Intravenous 2 demands patience, careful planning, and a strong tolerance for trial-and-error.
Combat is unforgiving. Enemies are hyper-lethal, and the game clearly discourages players from going loud. Instead, success relies heavily on remaining undetected, mastering the use of suppressors, shadows, and movement timing. Weapons are deeply customizable — from fire rates to attachments — echoing the attention to detail seen in mil-sims like Escape from Tarkov.
But that realism comes at a cost. Stealth fans may find the level design overly punishing. It’s not uncommon to get shot by an enemy off-screen — a frustrating occurrence that can erase 15–20 minutes of careful progress in an instant. That’s particularly discouraging in a game that doesn't always provide clear visual feedback on enemy positions or optimal routes.
Additionally, trial-and-error plays a dominant role in progression. Some encounters feel arbitrarily structured: choose the wrong path or open the wrong door, and you're back to square one. In many cases, success feels more like a product of repetition than strategic mastery. Though when the pieces fall into place and you execute a series of stealthy takedowns without being detected, or manage to overcome the odds in a firefight against a group of enemies, it feels amazing.
There’s also a surprising issue with difficulty settings. Rather than making "normal" the default mode, the game sets "hard" as the starting point, while labeling a higher level — “True” — as the intended difficulty. This confusing choice creates unnecessary friction. If the developer wants the experience to be difficult by design, that should be framed clearly without complicating player expectations.
Intravenous 2 Review - Narrative & Storytelling
If the gameplay is divisive, the story is even more so. Intravenous 2 casts you as a hitman who claims to operate under a strict moral code — targeting only those deemed “truly evil.” It’s a familiar trope, but one handled here with all the subtlety of a sledgehammer. The protagonist constantly reminds players of his righteousness, making the narrative feel more like a self-justification monologue than an organic character arc.
Early missions involve targeting people based on weak premises — like a man allegedly running a roofing scam — and the game spends considerable effort trying to paint these targets as unquestionably deserving.
A botched hit leads to your father being kidnapped by a mysterious organization that blackmails you into continuing your work. The setup is meant to add intrigue but raises more questions than it answers. Why would a secretive group rely on someone who just failed a mission? Why are they monitoring every hitman’s moral decisions?
The attempt to build suspense falls flat because the world doesn’t follow its own logic. Combined with the protagonist’s grating self-image, the story can feel more like a Reddit thread turned into a script than a gripping narrative experience. Though the simplicity of the narrative also makes your motivations in every scene easy to grasp, and most importantly justifies your violent actions.
Intravenous 2 Review - Art Direction & Technical Polish
Despite its gameplay and narrative missteps, Intravenous 2 shows a high degree of polish in its presentation. The visual style, though minimalist, is sharp and deliberate. Lighting and shadows are crucial gameplay elements and are rendered in a way that enhances tension without overcomplicating the screen. The environments are gritty, atmospheric, and detailed enough to support the immersion demanded by stealth mechanics.
Sound design is another strong point. Footsteps, suppressed gunfire, and ambient noise all play critical roles in how the player perceives danger. Audio cues are well-executed and serve both narrative and functional purposes. The tension-building is real — sneaking through tight hallways or watching patrol routes unfold creates a palpable sense of risk.
From a technical standpoint, the game runs smoothly, with minimal bugs or hiccups during its early hours. Weapon customization menus, while overly dense for some players, are logically structured for those familiar with tactical shooter design. In short, it’s clear that Intravenous 2 is a labor of love — one where the developer’s passion and attention to detail shine through.
Who Is This Game Really For?
Intravenous 2 isn’t trying to please everyone — and that’s both its greatest strength and its biggest limitation. This is a game built for a specific audience: fans of methodical, hardcore stealth gameplay who appreciate deep mechanical systems, unforgiving difficulty, and a strong dose of realism.
Players who enjoyed the first Intravenous game will find more of what they loved here. It’s an iterative sequel, not a reinvention. However, for gamers on the fence — especially those unfamiliar with the franchise — this second installment won’t serve as a friendly entry point. If anything, it doubles down on the elements that made the original polarizing.
The narrative and UI flaws, coupled with rigid stealth mechanics, make it a hard sell for broader audiences. Those looking for a more accessible or polished stealth experience may be better served by titles like Mark of the Ninja, Desperados III, or even Hitman (2016–2021) — all of which offer more flexibility without sacrificing depth.
Final Verdict
Intravenous 2 is a passion project that excels in technical polish, stealth tension, and mechanical depth — but it falters in accessibility, storytelling, and intuitive design. It delivers exactly what its niche audience craves, yet struggles to welcome anyone outside that circle.
Its uncompromising structure and trial-and-error design philosophy will likely frustrate more players than it delights. But for those who thrive on tactical stealth, where every movement matters and success is hard-won, this could be a hidden gem.
Approach it with clear expectations: this is not a mainstream stealth shooter. It's a challenging, raw experience that rewards precision, patience, and perseverance — if you can overlook its narrative stumbles and unforgiving design.
8 Best Boomer Shooters: Retro FPS Games That Redefine Old-School Mayhem
Modern gamers, especially those nostalgic for the golden era of first-person shooters, are increasingly turning to a subgenre called boomer shooters. These retro-inspired FPS games bring back the speed, grit, and chaotic energy of titles from the ‘90s like Doom, Quake, and Duke Nukem 3D. While today’s AAA games often emphasize realism, monetization models, and complex matchmaking systems, boomer shooters deliver unfiltered fun, packed with fast-paced combat and creative level design. It's more than just nostalgia—it’s a revival of a gameplay philosophy built around player agency, adrenaline, and mayhem.
Modern gamers, especially those nostalgic for the golden era of first-person shooters, are increasingly turning to a subgenre called boomer shooters. These retro-inspired FPS games bring back the speed, grit, and chaotic energy of titles from the ‘90s like Doom, Quake, and Duke Nukem 3D. While today’s AAA games often emphasize realism, monetization models, and complex matchmaking systems, boomer shooters deliver unfiltered fun, packed with fast-paced combat and creative level design. It's more than just nostalgia—it’s a revival of a gameplay philosophy built around player agency, adrenaline, and mayhem.
Here are 8 of the best.
Prodeus – Doom’s Spiritual Successor
The Prodeus Game Logo
Among the most polished and celebrated modern boomer shooters is Prodeus. It combines the DNA of early Doom with a modern aesthetic that blends pixelated gore, neon lighting, and stylized geometric level design. The gameplay is relentlessly fast, built on tight movement mechanics and a robust arsenal of guns that feel powerful with every shot. Players navigate labyrinthine levels, collecting colored keys, solving light puzzles, and laying waste to demonic foes.
What sets Prodeus apart is its built-in level editor. Players can design, share, and explore community-created campaigns, adding limitless replayability. One standout feature is the community-hosted map contests, which have spawned entire campaigns that rival the base game in quality and innovation. Whether you prefer your shooters blood-soaked, moody, or experimental, Proteus provides an arena for both players and creators to thrive.
Ultrakill – Blood, Speed, and Style
The ULTRAKILL Logo
If pure chaos is what you crave, ULTRAKILL turns the dial to eleven. Set in a hellish dimension where blood is literally your fuel, this ultra-violent shooter merges old-school speed with new-school mechanics. Think of it as a mashup between Quake, Devil May Cry, and Mike Tyson’s Punch-Out!!—but somehow more frenetic.
The gameplay loop is centered on momentum. You slide, double-jump, and wall-jump across arenas, racking up combos and executing trick shots that recharge your health through carnage. Players can parry bullets with punches or ricochet coins to land headshots, offering a skill ceiling as high as it is rewarding. Add in secret levels, sly references to other games, and a pulse-pounding soundtrack, and ULTRAKILL becomes one of the most thrilling boomer shooters available.
DUSK – The Catalyst of the Boomer Shooter Revival
The DUSK game logo
At first glance, DUSK might look like a low-res curiosity, but behind its pixelated exterior lies one of the most refined FPS experiences of the last decade. Inspired by titles like Quake, Blood, and Heretic, it brings tight gunplay, clever level design, and a surreal narrative together into a single unforgettable package.
What makes DUSK shine is its progression. Early levels play like standard shooter fare, but the further you get, the more it begins to twist reality—introducing gravity-defying levels, nightmarish enemies, and mind-bending architecture that evokes MC Escher. The movement system is a standout as well, encouraging flips, jumps, and air-strafing to outmaneuver increasingly complex threats. DUSK doesn’t just copy the classics—it reinvents them with precision and style.
Ion Fury – Powered by the Original Build Engine
The Ion Fury game logo
While many boomer shooters simulate retro visuals through modern engines, Ion Fury goes one step further—it’s built using the actual Build Engine from the 1990s. This is the same tech that powered Duke Nukem 3D, Blood, and Shadow Warrior. The result is an authentic aesthetic, enhanced with smart modern touches and improved design sensibilities.
Ion Fury combines run-and-gun gameplay with immersive sim elements. Environments are interactive, secrets are everywhere, and levels are sprawling. Despite the constraints of the engine, the game includes features like headshots, destructible objects, and fluid level transitions. It's a rare case where technology limitations become strengths, reinforcing a gritty atmosphere and deliberate pacing that harkens back to the roots of the genre.
Selaco – Tactical Cyberpunk Doom-Like
The Selaco game logo
In contrast to the more chaotic and arcade-style shooters, Selaco offers a tactical take on the genre without sacrificing the speed and punch fans expect. Built on GZDoom, a modernized fork of the original Doom engine, Selaco integrates environmental storytelling, destructible settings, and dynamic AI in a way that feels refreshingly new.
Set in a neon-soaked cyberpunk world, the game lets you slide, lean, and flip hospital beds over for cover—mechanics almost unheard of in retro-style shooters. Despite being developed by a small team, Selaco showcases an impressive level of polish and complexity. The demo alone has earned acclaim for its depth and pacing. It’s a promising title for anyone looking to blend classic action with modern immersion.
HROT – Slavic Jank Perfected
The HROT game logo
A darker, more eccentric entry in the boomer shooter lineup is HROT, a game drenched in post-Soviet atmosphere and inspired by the grim charm of ‘90s Eastern European games. It’s deliberately awkward, from its wonky character animations to its geometric environments and sepia-tone color palette. But that’s exactly what gives it soul.
Each level in HROT feels like a grimy maze, filled with bizarre enemies, limited ammo, and cruel surprise attacks. You’ll collect keys, dodge grenades, and battle through surreal bosses like a grotesque carousel ape that remains still until provoked. Behind its “Slav Jank” presentation is a meticulously balanced shooter, created entirely by a solo developer. It’s weird, gritty, and unforgettable.
Cultic – Blood Reimagined with Explosive Freedom
The CULTIC game logo
Few boomer shooters manage to combine sheer brutality with finesse quite like CULTIC. Drawing heavy inspiration from the cult-classic Blood (1997), it retains the genre’s obsession with dynamite, trench coats, and sinister enemies—then pushes the formula into new, explosive territory.
What sets CULTIC apart is its astonishing depth. Weapons aren't just tools—they’re toys for creative destruction. Throwing dynamite, lighting it mid-air, combining it with Molotovs, or dual-wielding while tossing explosives is just scratching the surface. The gameplay rewards experimentation, with stylish headshots and destructible environments adding to the satisfaction.
But CULTIC isn’t all action. It tells a grounded, gritty story that begins in an open mass grave. From there, players take the role of a disgraced detective unraveling a twisted mystery. Notes scattered across each level flesh out the narrative, adding layers to an already compelling journey. The game’s art direction—a mix of gritty pixel horror and modern lighting—makes it one of the most atmospheric titles in the genre.
Brutal Doom – The Mod That Started a Movement
The Brutal DOOM game logo
While not a standalone title, Brutal Doom deserves its place in any serious discussion about boomer shooters. It's an overhaul mod for the original Doom, transforming the iconic game into something bloodier, faster, and mechanically deeper. With new weapons, reloading systems, vehicles, fatalities, and smarter enemy AI, it reimagines Doom as the fever dream we all remember it being—if memory was powered by pure adrenaline.
The real magic of Brutal Doom lies in the community it’s inspired. Over the years, modders have built extensive enhancements ranging from weather effects to full-on custom campaigns and high-resolution textures. It’s a living, breathing ecosystem of retro FPS passion. Some mods, like the one compiled by YouTuber Razor, are so elaborate they almost resemble standalone games. Even though it's based on a 30-year-old title, Brutal Doom still stands as one of the most influential forces in the resurgence of retro-style shooters.
Boomer shooters aren’t just a throwback—they’re a statement. In an era where AAA titles often feel bloated or creatively stagnant, these indie gems remind us that fast, fun, and focused gameplay never goes out of style. Whether it’s the brutal artistry of Ultrakill, the puzzle-like madness of Dusk, or the inventive chaos of Cultic, each of these games brings something unique to the table.
They don’t just honor the past—they build upon it. These modern classics prove that pixelated gore, blistering speed, and smart design still have the power to captivate, challenge, and thrill. If you’re looking to reignite your love for first-person shooters, there’s no better place to start than with the best boomer shooters of today.
25 Squad Tips And Tricks to Dominate the Battlefield
If you’re diving into the intense world of Squad, you're in for an immersive and gritty tactical shooter that thrives on teamwork, strategy, and communication. Whether you're a fresh recruit or a seasoned grunt, having a few extra tricks up your sleeve can make a world of difference. This guide breaks down over 20 practical, battle-tested Squad Tips And Tricks to help you excel in the chaos of war.
If you’re diving into the intense world of Squad, you're in for an immersive and gritty tactical shooter that thrives on teamwork, strategy, and communication. Whether you're a fresh recruit or a seasoned grunt, having a few extra tricks up your sleeve can make a world of difference. This guide breaks down over 20 practical, battle-tested Squad Tips And Tricks to help you excel in the chaos of war.
1. Communicate Like Your Life Depends on It – Because It Does
In Squad, communication isn’t optional—it’s your lifeline. Use your mic frequently and clearly. Keep callouts short and descriptive. Say "Enemy bearing 240, 100 meters out, moving left to right" instead of "There's a guy over there." Your squad leader (SL) will thank you, and your squad will stay alive longer.
2. Always Stick with Your Squad
Wandering off solo turns you into a liability. The strength of Squad lies in coordinated teamplay. Stick close to your fireteam, cover your SL, and be ready to support with medical aid or suppressive fire. You'll be amazed at how much longer you survive by simply staying grouped.
3. Learn the Map—Knowledge Is Power
Understanding the terrain, chokepoints, flanking routes, and typical enemy positions gives you a huge tactical edge. Study maps offline or during downtime. Anticipating enemy movement based on map structure is an underrated skill in Squad Tips And Tricks.
4. Build Efficient FOBs and Rally Points
Forward Operating Bases (FOBs) and rally points are the heartbeat of your operations. When building a FOB, place it with concealment and strategic resupply in mind—not right on the objective. Always fortify with HESCOs and place ammo crates and HABs wisely.
5. Use Vehicles Wisely—They’re Not Invincible
Driving a tank or Humvee doesn’t make you a god. Vehicles are high-value assets and should be used carefully. Don't rush into combat without infantry support. Communicate with your gunner and SL, and always watch for mines and RPG ambushes.
6. Don’t Be a Lone Wolf Marksman
The Marksman role might seem like a license to go lone wolf, but you're more valuable spotting and supporting your squad from advantageous overwatch positions. Relay enemy positions and use your scope to provide precise suppression.
7. Learn the Power of Suppressive Fire
You don’t need to kill to win. Suppressing enemies allows your teammates to move, flank, and capture objectives. Use LMGs or even rifles to pin enemies down. One of the most underestimated Squad Tips And Tricks is suppressive fire discipline.
8. Play Your Role, Not Just the Game
Each class is there for a reason. If you’re a medic, don’t run to the front lines. Focus on reviving and healing. Riflemen should focus on ammo and support, engineers handle explosives, and SLs need to give orders and place spawn points.
9. Place Rally Points Often
SLs often forget this one: place rally points every time you're out of combat. They’re temporary but vital respawn locations that prevent your team from losing momentum. A timely rally can turn the tide of battle.
10. Clear Objectives Before Capping
One of the common rookie mistakes is rushing the cap point without clearing the area. Even if it looks empty, there's likely an enemy hiding in the shadows. Sweep buildings, check upper floors, and secure flanks before attempting the capture.
11. Use the Compass and Bearings
“Over there” doesn’t help anyone. Use your compass to call out accurate bearings. Practice using it until it’s second nature. Coordinating attacks or defenses depends on clear and accurate bearing-based communication.
12. Don’t Spam Local Chat
Use local chat wisely. It's great for coordinating with nearby friendlies, but don’t clutter it with unnecessary chatter. In a firefight, every second matters, and clarity can save lives. Efficient use of communication tools is central to Squad Tips And Tricks.
13. Check Ammo and Reload Smartly
Don’t wait until you’re dry to reload. Top off your mag when you’re safe. But avoid doing it mid-fight—being caught reloading is a rookie way to die. Always know your ammo count, and be aware of your squad’s resupply options.
14. Master the Art of Flanking
A frontal assault can work, but flanking usually works better. Use smoke to distract the enemy and swing wide to hit their rear or sides. Watch your map and use terrain like ridgelines and forests to stay concealed during flanks.
15. Use Smoke—It’s a Lifesaver
Seriously, throw more smoke grenades. Use them to revive teammates, obscure vision, cross open fields, or cover a retreat. Smoke doesn’t just help you—it disorients enemies too. In the list of Squad Tips And Tricks, this is your secret weapon.
16. Listen to Footsteps and Gunfire
Your ears are just as important as your eyes. Learn to distinguish the sound of different weapons, vehicles, and footsteps. Audio cues can give away a flanking enemy squad or an approaching APC long before you see them.
17. Place HMGs and AT Positions Tactically
If you’re building a base, don’t just plop machine guns or anti-tank weapons randomly. Elevation, cover, and field of view are crucial. Set up overlapping fields of fire to maximize effectiveness and defend key approaches.
18. Know When to Fall Back
Not every fight is winnable. If you’re outgunned or outflanked, fall back and regroup. Holding your position out of pride is how you get wiped. Preserve your squad, reposition, and try again smarter—not harder.
19. Build Smart, Not Flashy
When building defenses, don’t overdo it. A good FOB is about utility and concealment, not a massive, attention-grabbing fortress. Place barriers and firing positions where they make sense. Keep things simple and efficient.
20. Keep Eyes on the Objective
Don’t get tunnel vision. Your job is to win objectives, not rack up kills. Stick to the mission—capture, defend, and support. Even if you’re not on the scoreboard, you're helping your team secure victory.
21. Always Be Ready to Adapt
Flexibility wins wars. Be ready to change plans based on evolving combat. If your SL calls for a switch in roles or tactics, follow it. The best players aren’t just good shooters—they’re quick thinkers.
22. Learn from Deaths
Dying isn’t the end; it’s a lesson. Ask yourself why you died—bad position? No cover? No callout? Every mistake is a teaching moment. Improving through reflection is a core part of mastering Squad Tips And Tricks.
23. Use Map Markers Religiously
Don’t just rely on your voice. Use map markers to ping enemy locations, rally points, and threats. Squad leaders should be updating markers constantly, and players should pay attention to them.
24. Don't Hog Special Roles
Everyone wants to be the marksman or crewman, but remember that other players need a chance too. Rotate roles if needed, and if someone is better suited to a specific position, let them take it. Teamwork over ego.
25. Enjoy the Experience, Not Just the Kills
Squad is more than just a shooter—it’s about camaraderie, immersion, and large-scale teamwork. Sometimes the best moments come from a tense defense or a perfectly executed ambush. Don't chase stats—chase the experience.
Final Thoughts
Mastering Squad isn’t about being a crack shot—it’s about understanding the ebb and flow of tactical gameplay, relying on your team, and staying calm under pressure. These Squad Tips And Tricks are just the start. Apply them, keep learning, and you’ll find yourself thriving in the thickest firefights and leading your squad to victory.