Wardogs, the competitive shooter that entered Steam Early Access on September 10, has seen its initial surge in popularity tempered by growing player concerns about its balance. Despite a strong launch that saw it peak at over 428,000 concurrent players, the game's progression systems are reportedly leading to less engaging gameplay.
Evolving Meta and Player Concerns
The core of the issue appears to stem from Wardogs' dual progression systems of experience points (XP) and in-game cash. While XP unlocks higher player levels, cash is essential for purchasing loadouts and specific items. Players must spend cash to respawn with their chosen gear, and the ability to unlock these items is gated by XP.
This system has led to a rapidly evolving in-game meta. Early in the game's life, sniper rifles were dominant due to players having minimal armor. This was followed by a period where players focused on the 'hot zone,' a section of the map where players within it count for double points, leading to intense infantry firefights. However, as players have progressed and unlocked more powerful equipment, a new meta centered around Forward Operating Bases (FOBs) and drills has become prevalent.
Players report that activated drills at FOBs draw the hot zone to their location, allowing teams to quickly accrue points if their players are concentrated within the base. This has led to a playstyle often described as 'FOB building fobbits' rather than active combat engagement. Content creator TheTacticalBrit highlighted this shift on X, while Reddit user Icy_Hurry8645 noted that players often seem unsure where to go for action outside of these established FOBs.
Armor and Profitability
Further complicating the balance are the higher tiers of armor, particularly Level 4. Players have shared anecdotes of engaging enemies in Level 4 armor at close range with powerful weapons, only to be defeated. One Reddit user, I_C_Weiner2, described dumping multiple shotgun slugs into a player with Level 4 armor and a PKM, yet still losing the engagement. This has led some players to feel that the game is rapidly losing its fun due to these balance issues.
Adding to the frustration, Reddit user Cainsiderate pointed out that focusing on FOBs and drills is often the most profitable option within the game, incentivizing slower, more defensive playstyles. This contrasts with the desire for constant engagement that many players seek in this type of shooter.
Developer Awareness and Future Updates
Despite the mounting complaints, the development team at Bulkhead seems aware of the potential for negative sentiment. Joe Brammer, CEO and executive producer, posted on X acknowledging that the studio is preparing for a shift in player perception. The game is still in Early Access, and balance patches are expected as part of its development cycle. The upcoming second season, scheduled for October 15, may bring further adjustments.
While some players defend the current state of the game, arguing that Wardogs should not be compared to traditional 'run-and-gun' shooters, the dominant sentiment among a vocal portion of the community is that certain mechanics have become overly powerful. The game's innovation in the FPS genre is acknowledged, but the longevity of its success may depend on Bulkhead's ability to address these balancing concerns effectively and in a timely manner.