Dreadlands

Online strategy games can be one of the most fun types to play, and Dreadlands brings its A-game to the genre. You start out by choosing a gang to support you and stealing a base to work from, and then battle other gangs for survival. This strategy game is heavily reminiscent of Borderlands 3, but with a post-apocalyptic feel rather than a space-cowboy style. If you enjoy turned based combat and are looking for a new game to play, Dreadlands has a lot to offer.

A battle for cover

While many games encourage direct combat and amassing your strength to attack the enemy first, Dreadlands encourages defensive based combat. Your best bet is to make use of the land and the hiding places in it. The person who gives up cover first is usually the loser.

The game has an excellent premise that makes these fights seem realistic—your gangs are fighting over a fuel called “Glow,” which is necessary for your survival. There are 3 basic types of gangs, and each have their own unique focus in the game. The gang you pick will also alter the story arch for you, which can make playing all 3 at some point a bit more entertaining.

Moody soundtrack and art

The game’s premise is supported by an excellent soundtrack that shapes your feel of the rest of the game. The art is also well done, with a unique style and colors that match the theme and style of the game itself.

Together the art and soundtrack work together to make the game more enjoyable.

Unique card play system

A few pieces of this turn based game stand out from others in the genre. One of these more unique parts is the card play system. Every time you level your reputation, you can get “tactic cards” which are playable in combat. These cards are usually buffs for you or debuffs for the enemy, and you can have as many as 8 at a time with 4 playable during combat.

Limited gameplay options

Most games have flaws to them, and Dreadlands is no different. Although the game seems really promising at first with what appears to be an in-depth storyline and varied terrain maps, the game gets repetitive very quickly.

The missions in the game may sound different, but they almost entirely involve moving across the map and killing various gangs on your way. Every once in a while the game might have you talk to an NPC or something instead, but for the most part the missions are all the same.

Even the terrain can get repetitive, because although the barriers and other items in the map change, over time you notice that the land itself is almost entirely the same.

Pros:

• Some novel gameplay ideas
• Great music and art
• Interesting plotline

Cons:

• Repetitive