Steel Hunters is the latest brainchild of Wargaming, the masterminds behind World of Tanks.This free-to-play title promises to deliver an exhilarating blend of mechanics that will have you piloting colossal mechs in adrenaline-pumping battles.
The Fusion of Genres: What Makes Steel Hunters Tick?
Steel Hunters doesn’t just stick to one genre; it’s a hybrid beast that combines the best elements of MOBAs, hero shooters, and extraction shooters. Imagine being in the cockpit of a mech, engaging in tactical skirmishes while also strategizing like a MOBA pro. The game pits you in objective-based matches where you and a partner form a team of two, going head-to-head with up to six teams on a map teeming with AI-controlled foes. It’s a battlefield where every match is a new adventure, demanding both skill and strategy.
Strategic Depth: More Than Just Reflexes
Unlike your typical fast-paced shooter, Steel Hunters demands more than just quick reflexes. It emphasizes strategic decision-making, from choosing when to engage enemies to managing your abilities and navigating the map. It’s about making calculated moves and working with your partner to outsmart the opposition. The game rewards those who think ahead and coordinate their tactics, making it a refreshing change from the usual twitch-based gameplay.
Chasing Objectives and Progression
Steel Hunters isn’t just about shooting and surviving; it’s about achieving objectives and progressing through the game. The maps are dotted with capture points and side objectives that yield loot and items. Teams must scavenge for stat points and buffs while deciding whether to engage or avoid enemy teams. Successful extraction from the map is a primary goal, offering cosmetic rewards and other goodies. It’s a system that keeps you coming back for more, always aiming for that perfect run.
Transforming Your Gameplay Vision
One of the most exciting aspects of Steel Hunters is the ability to customize your mech to fit your personal vision. The high-fidelity art style lets you create a mech that’s not just powerful but also visually stunning. For those of us who grew up dreaming of building our own Transformers, this game is a dream come true. I’m already envisioning my explosive-laden mech, ready to wreak havoc on the battlefield.
When Does Steel Hunters Launch?
Steel Hunters was announced at The Game Awards 2024, and it’s currently in a closed beta phase until December 22, 2024. An open beta is on the horizon for 2025, with a full release date yet to be announced. Initially, the game will be available on PC, but console versions are in the pipeline, expanding the battlefield to a wider audience.
As you gear up to pilot your own mech in Steel Hunters, what kind of Hunter will you create? Will you go for speed, power, or a balanced approach? Let us know in the comments below! And don’t forget to check out the game on its Steam page.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. What platforms will Steel Hunters be available on?
Steel Hunters will initially launch on PC. Console versions are also planned for the future as part of Wargaming’s effort to expand the game to a wider audience.
2. What kind of gameplay can I expect from Steel Hunters?
Steel Hunters offers hybrid gameplay that combines elements of MOBAs, hero shooters, and extraction shooters. Players operate unique mechs in teams of two, engaging in tactical skirmishes while completing objectives and scavenging for resources on maps filled with both AI-controlled foes and other player teams.
3. What are the main mechanics that set Steel Hunters apart?
The game stands out for its emphasis on tactical decision-making and teamwork. It also features diverse mechs, each with distinct abilities and weapons, and revolves around achieving objectives, scavenging for loot, and successfully extracting from the map while outsmarting both AI enemies and rival teams.
4. Are there different types of mechs to choose from?
Yes! Every mech, or “Hunter,” in Steel Hunters has a unique design, skill set, and playstyle. For instance, Fenris is a fast-moving, wolf-like mech, while Heartbreaker is a sniper-focused mech specializing in long-range attacks. This variety ensures a mech to fit every player’s preferred strategy and playstyle.
5. How does the monetization work in Steel Hunters?
Steel Hunters follows a free-to-play model, offering cosmetic customizations and progression tracks. Players can unlock new Hunters and abilities through gameplay or purchase time-saving options. A battle pass and seasonal content will also provide ongoing opportunities for progression and rewards.
6. When will Steel Hunters be fully released?
The game is currently in a closed beta phase, running until December 22, 2024. An open beta is expected in 2025, though the full release date has not yet been announced.
7. What makes teamwork important in Steel Hunters?
Teamwork is crucial because every match pairs you with a partner, and success depends on the synergy between your chosen mechs. Using complementary abilities and coordinating tactics can give your team an edge over opponents and AI threats, resulting in smoother extractions and better rewards.
