Review - Men of War II

Developer: Best Way

Publisher: Fulqrum Publishing

Available on: PC (Steam)

Review system: PC

War is Hell

War is chaos, and in Men of War II, chaos is an art form. As the latest installment in the long-standing real-time strategy franchise, this game aims to deliver a gritty, tactical experience that plunges players into the complex and unforgiving battlefields of World War II. From commanding individual units to orchestrating large-scale operations, Men of War II offers a level of depth and realism that few other RTS games can rival. However, while its dedication to detail is impressive, the steep learning curve and initial absence of offline play may have deterred newcomers and even frustrated returning fans. With recent updates addressing some of these early shortcomings, the game has improved—but the question remains: is it enough to redeem its rough launch and bring back those who wrote it off?

Complexity at the Cost of Enjoyment

From the first mission, it’s clear that this game requires more than quick reflexes; it demands mastery over a wide array of mechanics. The direct control system, which allows players to take command of individual units, remains a hallmark of the series, providing an immersive layer of gameplay. However, for those unfamiliar with the franchise, the sheer volume of decisions required—down to unit positioning and equipment—can feel overwhelming. There’s no handholding here, and every action carries significant consequences.

For new players, Men of War II can feel like a trial by fire. The intricate mechanics, including managing individual unit inventories, mastering the direct control system, and balancing macro-level strategy with micro-level tactics, can be daunting. Without proper onboarding or accessible tutorials, many players may find themselves lost in the chaos, unable to fully appreciate the game’s potential. While veterans might thrive on the challenge, newcomers are more likely to feel frustrated, potentially giving up before experiencing what the game truly has to offer.

PVE and PVP: A Tale of Two Modes

The multiplayer and single-player modes in Men of War II both have their strengths and weaknesses. For PVE players, the extensive campaigns offer plenty to explore, with missions that capture the strategy and unpredictability of World War II battles. These scenarios are rich in historical detail and variety, from holding strategic positions to commanding large-scale assaults. However, the lack of a proper tutorial makes even these missions a steep hill to climb for new players.

In PVP, players can test their tactical prowess against others in real-time battles. These encounters can be thrilling and rewarding for seasoned players, but persistent issues such as desynchronization during matches have marred the experience since launch. While patches have improved stability, the multiplayer still lacks the polish expected in a competitive RTS.

Fortunately, the developers have addressed one of the game’s most significant criticisms: the absence of offline play. As of a recent patch, players can now enjoy the game without an internet connection, making it more accessible to those who prefer solo gameplay or lack reliable internet. This update is a welcome improvement, ensuring players can focus on the game’s mechanics without the pressure of online competition.

Familiarity Without Innovation

While Men of War II features polished visuals and refined gameplay, it doesn’t stray far from the formula established by its predecessors. Returning players might find the core mechanics familiar to the point of redundancy, with little innovation to set this entry apart. This sense of déjà vu, coupled with lingering multiplayer issues, makes it difficult to justify the game’s full price. Fans of Men of War: Assault Squad 2 may find that the sequel lacks enough new content to make it feel fresh.

When compared to genre heavyweights like Company of Heroes 3 and Call to Arms: Gates of Hell - Ostfront, Men of War II stands out for its focus on granular micromanagement. The ability to control individual units in detail gives it a unique edge, but this same level of complexity can alienate more casual players. While Company of Heroes 3 offers a streamlined and beginner-friendly experience, and Gates of Hell can deliver comparable tactical depth at a lower price during frequent sales, Men of War II demands a steeper learning curve at a higher price point.

Verdict

In its current state, Men of War II is a game tailored for hardcore RTS fans who are willing to invest significant time and effort into mastering its intricate systems. Its tactical depth and historical authenticity are commendable, but accessibility issues and ongoing multiplayer flaws limit its broader appeal. That said, the addition of an offline mode and active developer updates show promise for its future.

At $45 for the base game and $55 for the deluxe edition (which includes a digital artbook, skins, and soundtrack), I expect a polished product that feels accessible without needing to commit hundreds of hours just to grasp the basics. While quality-of-life improvements have been made, they may come too late to win over all but the most dedicated fans.

On a personal note, my gameplay preferences lean more toward straightforward WW2 experiences like Hell Let Loose, Squad 44, or War Thunder. The high level of intricacy required to fully enjoy the Men of War franchise is simply not in my normal comfort zone. My recommendation reflects that and my experience as a casual RTS player, but for the experienced RTS fan this game could bring more value to your time and enjoyment level.