We’ve reached the point where Stellaris has become the Spaceship of Theseus, almost unrecognizable from how it was at launch. The Machine Age is a breath of fresh air in that it’s not ticking the version number up yet another integer, but each new DLC still begs the question; do we really need Stellaris v.3.12, or has the time come for Stellaris 2?
Despite its flaws, though, Millennia’s gameplay is compelling enough to keep me coming back. It’s better than Humankind (which I say as an unapologetic Amplitude fanboy), and on par with Old World, but it doesn’t quite dethrone Civilization. However, its introduction and implementation of new takes on genre staples puts the ball in Firaxis’ court.
Ultimately, while Solium Infernum is a niche game, players that fill the niche are likely to have the time of their lives with it. If, like me, you’re the sort of board game enthusiast who can’t get your friends to try your latest purchase because you turn into a ruthless Machiavel on game night, finding some online opponents in the pits of Hell is sure to be a devilishly fun time.
If you’re a 40K fan or just looking for a combat-heavy RPG outside of the normal fantasy fare, Rogue Trader will make a welcome addition to your library. It dives deeper into the setting and lore than any other video game to date, showing that it’s clearly a game by fans, for fans. Owlcat gave us multiple Pathfinder RPGs - hopefully, we’ll see more adventures in the Koronus Expanse in the future as well.
It’s disappointing to see a project that had potential come up short, but if like me you were anticipating the launch of Untamed Tactics, it turned out to be far from what we were hoping for. The game’s biggest selling point could have been a dynamic Parley System with witty banter and opportunities for hidden characters and plotlines, but like the rest of the title it falls disappointingly flat.
Ultimately, Punk Wars stands out as a fun game with a rough-around-the-edges indie charm. It could do with some polish; some map and texture packs would be a welcome addition in the short term, and a fifth faction could drive interest further down the road. For right now, it’s definitely worth playing through at least one of the campaigns, especially at the low price point of $20 US. There is also a free demo available called Punk Wars: Prologue if you’d like to try it first. The full game is available for Windows and Mac on both Steam and GOG and, at the time of this writing, is 10% off on both platforms.
It’s pretty clear that this is a DLC intended for experienced players. Gladius isn’t a game that’s forgiving of mistakes in general, and the Adeptus Mechanicus penalize misplays more than other factions. If you’re a Gladius veteran though, or at least have played a campaign with one or two of the starting factions, the Adeptus Mechanicus will make an exciting addition to your game.