Its about the moments that eat up the hours like nothing else.
Mechabellum is not the first autobattler or autochess of its pop in, and these arent really RTS.
More than a genre, even.
I dont play competitivemultiplayergames, ever.
Lets talk about robots though.
They can neither shag nor shed themselves of their pre-destined role on the battlefield.
This is good: In many ways, Mechabellum is a game made out of constraints.
Your HP: gorgeous.
Their HP: a disgusting abomination.
Get rid of it.
With the exception of one limited ability Ive never used, you cant give your bots orders.
They’ll move forward, and fight whatever’s in their path.
Use abilities like shields or missiles.
Then, when you and your opponent are ready, you watch those decisions play out.
That’s where your command structures live!
If they get destroyed, all your units are slowed and made vulnerable.
And so it’s about making those contraints work for you.
Supplies are the first.
Youre given exponentially more to spend each round, but its never enough.
You get one upgrade, special ability, or bonus unit, then you might place two bots.
Higher tiers of units need to be unlocked with supplies before paying again to recruit them.
you might then place them anywhere on your side of the field.
you might also spend supplies on permanent or temporary upgrades.
A shield dome will nullify incoming attacks over a chosen area until its worn down.
A missile might take a big chunk of your foes weaker chaff if placed cannily.
Or take bonus supplies this turn to pay them back with interest the next.
Thats when you look to the humble Mustang.
And its that readability - effectively perfect information - that allows for such wonderfully dramatic moments.
Instead, dust clouds, searing lasers and glorious explosions herald every victory.
AlongsideTactical Breach Wizards, Mechabellum is the best fifteen quid Ive spent all year.
At this rate, itll still be best fifteen quid Ive spent next year too.
