Arma 3
" Authentic military action simulation with extensive modding and realism but steep learning curve "
Arma 3 Review
Arma 3 stands as one of the most comprehensive and enduring military simulation games available, boasting a vast sandbox experience that appeals to a wide range of playstyles. Players praise its deep realism, including accurate ballistics, physics, and expansive maps, which can be heavily customized through an extensive modding community. The multiplayer experience, supporting up to 64 players, is considered the core of the game’s appeal, offering countless mission types and scenarios. The Scenario Editor and mod support empower players to create and share unique content, extending the game's longevity.
However, the game shows its age with performance issues such as low FPS and crashes, especially on less powerful PCs. The learning curve is steep, and the user interface and controls can be overwhelming for newcomers. Bugs and jankiness are frequently mentioned, alongside problematic official servers and toxic player behavior. Despite these flaws, the game remains highly recommended for dedicated milsim fans and those who enjoy cooperative teamwork and creativity.
Highlights
Players consistently highlight the game’s realistic gameplay mechanics, including detailed ballistics, weight mechanics, and varied combat roles. The extensive modding community and Scenario Editor are praised for providing endless content and customization. The multiplayer experience is described as immersive and rewarding, especially when playing with friends or in organized units. Graphically, while dated, the visuals still hold up well for a 12-year-old title, with many appreciating the large, detailed maps and environmental effects. The game’s dedication to simulation over arcade-style shooter gameplay sets it apart in the genre.
Criticisms
Common criticisms focus on the game’s performance and optimization issues, with many players experiencing low frame rates, crashes, and instability even on modern hardware. The steep learning curve and complex controls can deter new players, and the singleplayer campaign is often described as lacking in action and engagement. Bugs and glitches, referred to as “ARMA jank,” affect gameplay fluidity. Additionally, official multiplayer servers suffer from toxic behavior, including teamkilling and racism, which detracts from the experience. The DLC pricing model is viewed as expensive and not improving performance issues.
Pros
- • Extensive modding community adds endless new content and gameplay options.
- • Highly realistic ballistics and physics enhance immersion and tactical depth.
- • Large, detailed maps provide vast environments for diverse missions.
- • Scenario Editor allows creation and sharing of custom missions.
- • Multiplayer supports up to 64 players for large-scale engagements.
- • Varied combat roles and vehicles increase gameplay variety.
- • Strong focus on teamwork and communication in multiplayer.
Cons
- • Performance issues with low FPS and frequent crashes on many PCs.
- • Steep learning curve and complex controls overwhelm new players.
- • Singleplayer campaign is considered short and lacking in action.
- • Official servers plagued by toxic behavior and teamkilling.
- • Game engine shows age with bugs and glitches affecting gameplay.
- • Expensive DLCs that don’t address core performance problems.
- • High storage requirements, especially with mods installed.
Rating Criteria
Experience true combat gameplay in a massive military sandbox. Deploying a wide variety of single- and multiplayer content, over 20 vehicles and 40 weapons, and limitless opportunities for content creation, this is the PC’s premier military game. Authentic, diverse, open - Arma 3 sends you to war.
