With no word yet on a possible XCOM 3, tactical RPG lovers everywhere are on the hunt for that next strategy fix. Among the contenders, Menace is one I’m very eagerly anticipating. It comes from Overhype Studios, which previously brought us the brutal medieval fantasy tactics game Battle Brothers, and promises to bring some smart new ideas to the format. Unfortunately, we’ll be waiting a little longer than initially planned, as the studio confirms it is no longer targeting a 2024 launch. Nevertheless, with almost 300,000 Steam wishlists so far and a brand-new trailer to check out, it’s certainly still one to watch in 2025.
I was given a special Menace preview at Gamescom by managing director Jan Taaks and creative director Paul Taaks, and came away very eager to put my hands on the full thing. Its horrifying, eponymous foes boast some fantastic designs; all manner of mechanical parts strapped onto human-like center masses comprising muscle and sinew, inspired by the likes of ‘80s body horror, Virus, and Terminator 2. Hit the battlefield, and Menace pulls from some of the best tactical RPGs, while incorporating an increased focus on character-driven storytelling and a redesigned targeting system.
Rather than traditional hit percentages, your attacks in Menace are shown by a color-changing targeting line that shows their potential effectiveness. Those riflemen might not have any trouble hitting the tank in front of them, for example, but their shots will struggle to make so much as a dent. Back at base, you’ll have to consider the history between the disparate factions and leaders thrown together to defend against the Menace. If one squad leader is saved in battle by a former rival, it might bring them closer together – but it could cause a deeper sense of resentment instead.
Menace feels like a dramatic upgrade from Battle Brothers on the presentation side, with full 3D action featuring detailed character models that reflect your squad customization and equipment choices. Units will move into cover as they’re targeted, or drop to the ground when suppressed. While Overhype says it expects the game to be a little less punishing than its previous outing, you should still expect to lose key units and individuals. That’s all part of the storytelling, after all.
As it shows off a new gameplay sequence at the PC Gaming Show where marines are desperately struggling to defend a settlement against the odds, publisher Hooded Horse announces that Menace will now be released in 2025. While it’s a shame we won’t get to play it this year, I’ll always take a more polished game that arrives a little later on without rushing developers to get it out as soon as possible.
Menace is set to launch in 2025 via Steam and the Epic Games Store. If you can’t wait until then to register your interest, you can wishlist it now – as one of Steam’s top 100 most-wishlisted games, you certainly won’t be alone in doing so.
For now, you can face down the greatest threats from beyond the stars in the best space games. Looking to scratch that tactical itch? The best strategy games are always here for your needs.
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