An hour spent with a preview build of Total War: Warhammer 40,000 at Gamescom has left a strong impression, with the hands-on experience described as the highlight of the year for one reviewer. The game promises to blend the signature large-scale battles of the Total War series with the grimdark aesthetic and tactical nuances of the Warhammer 40,000 universe.
Even early in the tutorial, the game demonstrated its potential to differentiate itself from previous entries. While large-scale clashes are a key feature, the smaller engagements proved adept at showcasing unique mechanics. For instance, a small contingent of Ultramarines, armed with various wargear options, felt as potent as a full army in other Total War titles. Utilizing grenades and specialized bolt rifles allowed these units to inflict significant damage on charging Ork hordes, even in close-quarters melee.
The tactical possibilities extend to unit specialization, with weapons like autos proving effective against Orks' close-range preferences, while long-range options such as stalker bolt rifles are more suited for fighting the Aeldari. Each unit maintains a primary role but can be augmented with secondary functions, allowing Intercessors, for example, to handle light vehicles with grenade launchers despite not being their primary function.
Reinforcements can be strategically deployed, as seen with Assault Intercessors arriving via drop pods to decimate surprised Ork units before engaging them in melee combat with chainswords. This dynamic deployment and combat capability were highlighted as a significant feature.
In the campaign slice, players can create custom Space Marine chapters, with options for colors and emblems, such as the 'Blood Drinkers' in red and gold. While settlement development and management were not fully showcased, the campaign map itself was noted for its striking presentation, featuring rotatable 3D planets and an entire solar system to explore.
Kinetic Combat and Dynamic Battlefields
A late-game battle scenario pitted Ultramarines and Astra Militarum against a seemingly endless Ork army. Despite fielding a smaller force, the player was able to leverage several tactical advantages. The cover system, a returning feature from 'Empire', has been significantly enhanced. As buildings and walls are destroyed, cover is lost, but new opportunities for troops to take shelter, such as craters, emerge throughout the battle. This dynamism ensures the battlefield is constantly changing, requiring players to adapt their strategies on the fly.
Overcoming enemy cover is a critical aspect of positioning. Options include flanking with powerful units like Terminators, using lower-tier units as distractions, or employing heavy firepower and war machines to breach fortified positions. This focus on dynamic cover and the need to counter it makes battles exceptionally kinetic, arguably the most so in the series' history.
The integration of familiar Total War fundamentals with new mechanics, particularly the emphasis on ranged combat and environmental interaction, creates a unique experience. The game aims to provide novel moments and tactical depth even for long-time fans of the series, promising engaging gameplay that captures the essence of the Warhammer 40,000 universe.
Even for newcomers to the Warhammer 40,000 setting, the game is expected to deliver a compelling experience, evoking moments of excitement and strategic satisfaction. The preview suggests that Total War: Warhammer 40,000 is poised to offer a significant evolution in the strategy game genre.