Iron Harvest
" Immersive real-time strategy with unique dieselpunk mechs but frequent crashes and AI issues "
Iron Harvest Review
Iron Harvest is a dieselpunk-themed real-time strategy game set in an alternate 1920s universe, blending mech combat with traditional RTS elements. Players appreciate its unique setting and well-crafted storyline, especially the campaign that offers around 20 hours of gameplay filled with narrative depth and engaging cutscenes. The graphics are praised for their detailed mech designs and immersive environments. Gameplay focuses on tactical unit control rather than base building, with resource control points and a limited building system, which some players find simpler compared to classic RTS titles.
However, the game has notable issues with bugs and stability, including crashes and memory dumps, which have frustrated some players. The AI and unit responsiveness can feel janky, and the factions, while visually distinct, often play similarly, reducing strategic variety. Some players also criticize the pacing and repetitiveness in certain campaign missions. Despite these flaws, many find the game enjoyable and recommend it, especially on sale, appreciating its creativity and the developer's potential.
Highlights
Players highly praise Iron Harvest's unique steampunk setting combined with mech warfare, creating an immersive alternate 1920s world.
The campaign story and cutscenes receive positive mentions for narrative depth and character development.
The graphics and mech designs are considered visually impressive and add to the game's charm.
Tactical gameplay with cover mechanics and unit variety enhances engagement for strategy enthusiasts.
The World Map mode adds a strategic layer reminiscent of Risk, enriching replayability.
Criticisms
Common criticisms include frequent bugs and crashes that impact gameplay stability.
Players find the AI and unit control sometimes unresponsive or janky, affecting tactical execution.
The lack of faction diversity and similarity in gameplay reduce strategic depth.
Some campaign missions are perceived as repetitive and slow-paced, especially stealth segments.
UI and multiplayer campaign cinematic viewing limitations frustrate cooperative play.
Pros
- • Unique and immersive dieselpunk alternate 1920s setting with mech combat.
- • Engaging campaign with strong narrative and well-developed characters.
- • Visually impressive graphics featuring detailed mech and environment designs.
- • Tactical gameplay emphasizing unit positioning and cover mechanics.
- • World Map mode adds strategic depth beyond standard RTS battles.
- • Good value for players purchasing on discount or sale.
- • Supports both mech and infantry units with distinct abilities.
Cons
- • Game suffers from frequent crashes and stability issues.
- • AI and unit responsiveness can feel janky and frustrating.
- • Limited faction variety with similar playstyles reduces replayability.
- • Campaign missions sometimes feel repetitive and overly long.
- • UI and multiplayer cinematic viewing are poorly designed.
- • Simplified resource and base building mechanics compared to classic RTS.
- • No option to increase game speed, slowing down gameplay.
Rating Criteria
A classic real-time strategy game with an epic single player campaign, multiplayer & coop, set in the alternate reality of 1920+
