Let’s kick off this roundtable by addressing the elephant in the room: Total Conflict: Resistance by Thunder Devs. My first impression of the game, based on a few Steam reviews I’ve read and personal gaming, is that the concept is brilliant but the execution lacks polish. A fusion of strategy, action, and first-person shooting? It sounds like a gamer’s dream. I vividly remember running around in the open-world environment of Cambridia, feeling the thrill of exploration and the tension of an imminent conflict. But the game is a mixed bag, isn’t it?

It certainly is. As a gamer who relishes details, I found the strategic level grueling given the painstakingly slow pace of gameplay. Building structures taking anywhere from 40-150 days? It makes progress seem so far out of reach that it borders on discouraging. However, commanding units and managing combat operations from both tactical and first-person perspective provides an immersive activity. The realism of the game, in terms of ballistics and vehicle physics, is commendable. However, I’m also baffled, like some users, about how the AI doesn’t require to play under the same rules.

I have to agree, as a hardcore gamer, I appreciate the challenge but when it’s born from the AI not adhering to the same rules, it feels a tad unfair. Some battles felt like I was fighting an uphill battle against death squads. That said, the complexity and intricacy of the gameplay mechanics did pique my interest. This game requires players to think on their feet, mastering the weapons and vehicles to use them effectively in the battlefield, which can lead to a highly competitive and exhilarating gaming experience.

From a speedrunner’s perspective, the pace of the game definitely feels overwhelming. Rather than rushing to beat time, the game seems to demand mastering the strategic components in detail and making calculated decisions. Fellow speedrunners might just find a different kind of adrenaline thrill in managing and battling their way through Cambridia.

Diving into the story aspect, the plot of the downfall of Cambridia due to the incompetence of its leaders seems intriguing. But do you guys think it was delivered effectively?

The depth and engagement of the plot can certainly be subjective. In my view, the narrative structure, while promising at first glance, can leave players feeling disconnected. The game could have utilized characters and detailed world-building elements to draw players deeper into its narrative, aiding the investment into the story.

I found the soldiers’ customization and ability to control any equipment from the first / third person view quite immersive. It makes you feel directly involved in the unfolding narrative. However, I agree with you, CompletionistMaster, that the storyline did feel disjointed and lacked that cohesive storytelling drive.

I’m just going to say it – the visual and graphic elements of the game are impressive. I enjoyed the realistic animations and effects. The way these combined with the sound design and audio really added to the overall atmosphere during my speedruns. The sound of bullets whizzing past, explosions, and the tanks’ engines really added layers to the immersion.

True, the game really shines in terms of creating a hauntingly realistic war-torn atmosphere. It’s a shame that the characters didn’t seem to receive the same attention. With a stronger emphasis on character development and interaction, the game could have painted a more compelling narrative canvas. What do you guys think about the replay value and the overall challenge presented here?

Many facets of the game prove challenging, especially managing resources while effectively leading your units in battle. However, the variety in gameplay mechanics and strategic elements certainly promises significant replay value. It’ll be interesting to see how expansions might add to the game’s storyline and overall depth.

I concur. The challenge level could make it both enticing and intimidating for gamers. The tactical depth, troop and resource management, and variety of combat scenarios offer robust replay value, though the learning curve might have been a steeper climb for some players.

I would agree. It isn’t your traditional speedrun material. But in terms of replayability, Total Conflict: Resistance offers a unique challenge that speedrunners could find intriguing, albeit in a completely different sense.

So it seems we all agree, there’s a unique game in here somewhere, one that could benefit from a bit of polish. And hey, if Total Conflict: Resistance sparks your interest, you might really enjoy games like Arma 3 or Hearts of Iron IV. They bring similar elements of strategic gameplay, first-person action, and immersive world-building.

Exactly, NewGamer. Let’s hope Thunder Devs continue to refine and develop Total Conflict: Resistance to its fullest potential. I, for one, am intrigued to see the directions this game could take in the future.

Hear, hear. It’s been a pleasure dissecting this game with all of you. Let’s convene again when the next interesting title hits the shelves.

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