While 2026 has offered numerous stressful gaming moments, from escaping monsters in Resident Evil Requiem to treacherous climbs in Cairn, the act of piloting a helicopter in Wardogs stands out as particularly anxiety-inducing.
While many games feature helicopters as a means of transport, Wardogs differentiates itself through a commitment to realism. According to Kane Allard, a senior producer at Bulkhead, the helicopters were designed with the assistance of an aeronautical engineer. "A big part of the game is vehicles, and we wanted them to feel as realistic and authentic as possible," Allard stated in an interview at Gamescom 2026. This design choice imbues the aircraft with weight and a distinct feel, contributing to a steep learning curve for pilots.
This dedication to authenticity makes the act of landing a helicopter a significant challenge. Even after practicing extensively, players may find themselves struggling to bring the aircraft to a safe and efficient stop, ensuring passengers can disembark without issue.
The consequences of a failed landing are substantial. A crash not only results in the loss of the helicopter, costing players $6,250, but also jeopardizes the mission and potentially wastes the valuable kits of all passengers. If no teammate is available to revive the downed squad, the collective loss can reach tens of thousands, severely impacting a team's resources and a pilot's reputation.
For some, this high-pressure flying can be an art form. For others, however, the stress of safely delivering passengers to objectives, coupled with the significant risks involved, makes land vehicles a more appealing, less heart-pounding option.