Unconventional Warfare

While it's said to death about practically every early access indie title, this game does have great potential. It's not finished in the slightest, nor would I say the parts that are done are perfect, but the skeleton is there. In a less metaphorical sense: the worldbuilding, the mechanics, the characters (and their future development) are all there. One solid look and I can tell this is crafted by people who not only care, but are talented and dedicated. I want to see this title - and the devs - go far. Now, for some pros, cons, and a little in-between: + Gameplay. The tactics aspect of UW is very messy, but in a good way. While there are counters and powerful strategies to employ, there is not a destined "meta" that makes the game repetitive. Every mission has its flavor (Random encounters could use some refinement). The moment when you position your misfits just right feels fantastic. + Hotkeys. This is great for any RTS game, and QoL stuff like this goes far when it comes to enjoyment of a game. (Z & C for prone & crouch, X for ammo type... it's in the controls if you need them). + Miscellaneous depth. This includes anything from varying weapon qualities, variety of equipment, to rouge-like events and survival aspects. Everything here delivers that feel of being stranded behind enemy lines, it's great. - Quite unpolished overall (understandable, given its early access state). While all the mechanics are there, few have been refined, and some suffer from lack of explanation. For example, the cover and flanking systems are difficult to understand (for me anyways), and I find myself thinking it might be better to do away with the stat-based hit system and put in place something like Men of War's combat systems. - While I like the music tracks, taking a book from Valkyria Chronicles' seamless looping tracks would drastically improve the quality of the music. +? Setting, characters, and story are all set up great. If developed further, it can be quite in-depth and entertaining. -? The demo content is the same as the game content. While I knew this when purchasing, understand that (at time of writing) you are paying for the future development of the game. Think of it like a war bond: pay them now and get plenty in return later down the line. It seems that their Kickstarter and Patreon pages are no longer operational, so the main way you can support them is via Steam. Currently, UW is a great foundation that should be supported in any way you can. I'd recommend grabbing it now rather than later, and seeing where the project goes.