Faces of War

It seems like WWII has been done to death in videogames over the last few years (or maybe just in the FPS genre). But Faces of War, the follow up to Soldiers: Heroes of World War II, looks to be bringing this chapter of modern history to life once more, and at the same time bringing some genuine variety to real-time strategy.

Though Faces of War (which previously had the confusing working title of Outfront II) is an RTS game, there is none of the resource management, base-building and army-raising that typically form the backbone of the genre. Instead, you’ll be put in control of a single squad of soldiers, and will have to try and keep those men alive while you advance through the missions.

On the one hand, Ukrainian developers Best Way have aimed at a filmic feel, rather than trying to be ultra-realistic. But one of the most exciting things about Faces of War is that while you are only in command of a handful of soldiers (and the odd tank from time to time), there is actually a war going on around you, which you can, and must, interact with. So it sounds as if there is a good balance between realism and cinematic action.

Those familiar with FoW’s predecessor, Soldiers, can of course expect improved graphics, as well as new weapons and vehicles. The AI is apparently much improved as well. Most importantly from my perspective, though: Faces of War boasts some very destructible terrain!

As well as three single player campaigns, Faces of War will support various multiplayer modes, with up to 16 players duking it out.

At a time when strategy games are too often mere clones, distinguishable only by their graphics, Faces of War looks to be offering a new RTS experience – for that alone, I want to get my hands on a copy.

It is expected to hit stores on May 26th.