Total Conflict: Resistance

Total Conflict: Resistance is an ambitious indie game blending real-time strategy, FPS mechanics, and grand strategy set in a fictional civil war. Players manage diplomacy, production chains, and tactical combat, seamlessly switching from commanding armies on a strategic map to controlling units directly in first-person. The combat mechanics, especially infantry AI and vehicle control, receive high praise for immersion and fun.

However, the strategic layer and macro-management systems are often described as clunky, slow, and unintuitive. The economy, research, diplomacy, and troop management systems feel underdeveloped or half-baked, with a steep learning curve and lack of clear UI feedback. Bugs, AI pathfinding issues, and UI quirks persist, though frequent updates and an active modding community show developer commitment. Despite these flaws, fans appreciate the game’s scope, unique concept, and potential, especially if the strategic aspects improve over time.

Highlights

Players especially praise the battle simulator and FPS combat, highlighting satisfying gunplay and vehicle controls. The ability to switch seamlessly between grand strategy and direct combat is considered a standout, immersive feature.

The detailed customization of troops and the variety of weapons and equipment add depth. Visually, the game’s environments and dynamic weather contribute positively, making the setting feel alive. Fans commend the developer’s frequent updates and active community support, which steadily improve gameplay and fix issues.

Criticisms

Common criticisms focus on the strategic and grand strategy layers, which many find poorly designed, slow, and unintuitive. The economy and research systems are described as sluggish, and troop templates are difficult to manage.

The diplomacy system is underwhelming and lacks meaningful interactions. AI pathfinding is inconsistent, leading to frustrating tactical battles. The UI often lacks clarity, with missing explanations for key stats and mechanics. Some players report bugs, save file issues, and an overall feeling that the game is still unfinished, with too much reliance on DLCs despite being in early access.