Wolfenstein: The New Order
" Intense action FPS with satisfying gunplay and dual-wielding, but simplistic enemy AI "
Wolfenstein: The New Order Review
Wolfenstein: The New Order is a first-person shooter set in an alternate history where Nazis won World War II. Players control B.J. Blazkowicz, a war veteran awakening from a coma to fight the Nazi regime. The game is praised for its fast-paced, satisfying gunplay, dual-wielding mechanics, and well-designed combat encounters. It offers a mix of stealth and action with varied level designs ranging from hospitals to moon bases, delivering a cinematic and immersive experience.
The storyline, while engaging with emotional moments and strong alternate-history vibes, is considered somewhat pulpy and underdeveloped in character depth and pacing. Players appreciate the game's aesthetic, soundtrack by Mick Gordon, and the nostalgic yet modern gameplay feel. However, some criticize the AI, limited enemy variety, and occasional technical issues. Overall, it is seen as a solid, enjoyable shooter that balances narrative and action effectively, especially when purchased at a discount.
Highlights
Players highly praise the tight and impactful gunplay with satisfying weapon mechanics, including fun dual-wielding. The varied and well-crafted level design keeps gameplay fresh, featuring diverse environments and memorable set pieces. The storyline and characters provide emotional depth and compelling alternate-history context. The game’s graphics and optimization are good for its age, and Mick Gordon’s soundtrack enhances the intense atmosphere. Many find killing Nazis cathartic and enjoy the game’s blend of action and stealth elements.
Criticisms
Common criticisms include repetitive enemy AI with bullet sponge mechanics and limited enemy variety, which can make combat feel monotonous. The story pacing is rushed with underdeveloped character arcs and a somewhat generic plot. Some players find the stealth mechanics shallow and the perk system underwhelming. Technical issues such as crashes on lower-end PCs and a restrictive 60 FPS cap detract from the experience. The final boss fight and some gameplay mechanics, like weapon selection and save points, receive negative remarks.
Pros
- • Gunplay is tight, weighty, and endlessly satisfying to use in combat.
- • Dual-wielding weapons adds a fun, chaotic layer to gameplay.
- • Varied level design keeps encounters fresh and engaging throughout.
- • Storyline offers emotional moments and strong alternate-history vibes.
- • Graphics and optimization are solid for a game of its age.
- • Mick Gordon's soundtrack intensifies the game's atmosphere effectively.
- • Well-designed combat arenas encourage tactical approaches and flanking.
Cons
- • Enemy AI is simplistic and often results in bullet sponge fights.
- • Story pacing is rushed with underdeveloped character depth.
- • Stealth mechanics are shallow and lack sophisticated tools.
- • Technical issues include crashes and a frustrating 60 FPS cap.
- • Final boss fight is widely regarded as unsatisfying.
- • Weapon selector and ammo pickup mechanics feel clunky.
- • Save points are sparse in some levels, increasing frustration.
Rating Criteria
Wolfenstein®: The New Order reignites the series that created the first-person shooter genre. Wolfenstein offers a deep game narrative packed with action, adventure and first-person combat.
