From Wargaming, the minds behind World of Tanks, comes Steel Hunters, a fresh entry into the mech battler arena available now in early access on Steam since April 2. Reviewed here at Digital Tech Explorer, this title blends the imposing presence of giant robots with a slower, more deliberate tactical experience, integrating elements from hero shooters and extraction modes. Authored by TechTalesLeo, this hands-on look explores its unique mech designs—spanning classic humanoid forms to animal-inspired machines—and its methodical gameplay.
Gameplay Loop: Calculated Progression
In its primary mode, Steel Hunters deploys six teams of two onto a vast map dotted with drones, supply drops, and objectives. Spawning points are strategically distanced, discouraging immediate PvP conflict. The match structure mirrors a MOBA’s progression system: players initially hunt AI-controlled drones and bots to gather energy. This resource is vital for unlocking potent special abilities and ultimates required for later engagements. Consequently, the initial phase involves methodically clearing AI targets, which can feel somewhat routine. Unlike battle royales, gear loadouts are predetermined, removing dynamic looting from this early match stage but emphasizing pre-match strategy.
Combat Experience: Where Tactics Reign
While the opening moments emphasize resource gathering, the combat experience against player-controlled opponents (or bots during testing) proves far more compelling. Here, the game’s focus on tactical gameplay becomes evident. Mech abilities are paramount, necessitating effective team coordination. For example, the Weaver spider mech’s shield ability functions akin to Reinhardt’s barrier in Overwatch, offering crucial protection. Maneuverability is intentionally constrained; actions like jumping and dashing consume a recharging energy bar, compelling players towards meticulous movement and synergy. Fights are often protracted, resembling clashes in hero shooters or the final circles of battle royales, especially around key objectives like extraction zones. These encounters erupt in a spectacle of explosions, environmental destruction (small structures and vehicles crumble), and shimmering shield effects. Success demands careful planning—map rotations, target prioritization, and leveraging terrain are key. Every decision carries weight, even if the intervals between major engagements feel less intense.
Pacing and Strategic Depth: A Contrast to High-Speed Mechs
The deliberate **pacing** of Steel Hunters differentiates it from other upcoming mech-based shooters like Mecha Break. Where Mecha Break emulates the high-octane, **Gundam**-esque action seen in franchises like Pacific Rim, Steel Hunters adopts a markedly slower, more grounded methodology. Twitch reactions take a backseat; movement options are subdued and heavily restricted by stamina. Even basic melee strikes often have cooldowns, demanding precise timing and resource management. This measured tempo cultivates a sense of ‘realistic’ mech combat, highlighting the weight and scale of these behemoths clashing amidst destructible scenery. Compared to the arcade style of Mecha Break, Steel Hunters aligns more closely with the simulation-oriented feel of classics like **MechWarrior**.
Despite its measured **pacing**, Steel Hunters features compelling mech designs and combat centered on balance and strategy. The feeling of immense weight persists even with nimbler mechs, reinforcing the need for purposeful action. For its early access launch, Wargaming provides a focused initial offering: seven distinct mechs and game modes restricted to six teams of two, with no immediate plans for larger squads. The developers aim to gradually expand the game’s complexity by introducing more mechs and modes. This launch follows a successful closed beta in December, which engaged over 200,000 players and yielded valuable feedback, prompting Wargaming to advance the release. For tech enthusiasts favouring strategic depth over sheer speed, Steel Hunters presents a promising new battlefield.
Find Steel Hunters on Steam Early Access.
Follow TechTalesLeo for more tech stories and analyses on Digital Tech Explorer.
Affiliate Disclaimer: Some links in this article may be affiliate links. Digital Tech Explorer may earn a commission if you purchase through these links, at no extra cost to you. Our recommendations are based on thorough research and experience.
Disclaimer: Content on Digital Tech Explorer is for informational purposes only.