Under Falling Skies! A Review of a Deep Strategy Game That Will Test Your Tactical Prowess

Under Falling Skies! A Review of a Deep Strategy Game That Will Test Your Tactical Prowess

The year is 1942, and World War II rages across Europe. But this isn’t your typical war story. In Under Falling Skies, you aren’t a soldier on the frontlines; instead, you’re a brilliant scientist tasked with creating ingenious contraptions to defend Earth from an alien invasion! Developed by the indie studio Harebrained Schemes (known for their stellar work on Shadowrun Returns), this turn-based strategy game throws you into a chaotic mix of science fiction and historical warfare, demanding tactical brilliance and creative thinking.

Under Falling Skies is unlike anything you’ve seen before. Forget meticulously crafted units and predictable battlefields. Instead, picture yourself assembling bizarre, yet highly effective, defenses against hordes of extraterrestrial invaders. This isn’t just about placing towers strategically – it’s about understanding the intricate interplay between enemy types, terrain features, and your ever-expanding arsenal of gadgets.

A Story Built on Innovation and Alien Menace

The narrative unfolds in a captivating alternate history where Nazi Germany has fallen to an unexpected foe: extraterrestrials known as “the Visitors.” These alien beings, with their advanced technology and relentless aggression, threaten to conquer Earth. Stepping into the shoes of Dr. Alistair Sterling, a renowned scientist recruited by the Allied forces, you must harness the power of science to push back against this formidable threat.

The game’s single-player campaign unfolds across six distinct chapters, each presenting unique challenges and introducing new alien types with specific weaknesses and attack patterns. You’ll encounter relentless ground units, heavily armored behemoths, aerial attackers, and even mind-controlling insectoid creatures. Understanding the strengths and vulnerabilities of each enemy type is crucial for devising effective defense strategies.

Building Your Arsenal: From Simple Turrets to Mind-Bending Gizmos

Dr. Sterling isn’t limited to traditional weapons; Under Falling Skies embraces a whimsical approach to defense, allowing you to construct an array of eccentric gadgets. Starting with basic turrets and traps, you gradually unlock more complex and powerful inventions like sonic cannons, EMP generators, and even teleportation devices!

This diverse arsenal encourages experimentation and strategic thinking. Do you opt for brute force with explosive weaponry, or favor a more subtle approach using decoys and crowd control mechanisms? The choice is yours! But be prepared to adapt – the Visitors are constantly evolving, forcing you to refine your tactics and embrace new technologies.

Under Falling Skies offers a deep and rewarding progression system. As you successfully defend against alien waves, you earn “scrap” – the currency used to research and construct new inventions. This encourages continuous experimentation and refinement of your defensive strategies.

A Beautifully Crafted World with Immersive Gameplay

Beyond its innovative gameplay mechanics, Under Falling Skies excels in creating a visually stunning and immersive world. The game features detailed 3D graphics, bringing the chaotic battlefields and quirky contraptions to life.

The soundtrack perfectly complements the atmosphere, blending orchestral themes with electronic elements to evoke both the urgency of the situation and the scientific ingenuity at play.

Mastering the Art of Defense: Essential Tips for Success

While Under Falling Skies is accessible for strategy game newcomers, mastering its intricacies requires careful planning and execution. Here are a few tips to help you succeed against the alien onslaught:

Strategy Description
Diversify Your Defenses Don’t rely solely on one type of weapon. Mix turrets, traps, and gadgets to create layered defenses that cater to different enemy types.
Utilize Terrain Features Use natural obstacles like hills and trees to your advantage, funneling enemies into chokepoints where they are more vulnerable.
Research and Upgrade Don’t neglect the research tree! Unlock new inventions and upgrades to keep pace with the evolving alien threat.
Embrace Experimentation There is no single “right” way to defend against the Visitors. Try different combinations of weapons and gadgets to discover what works best for you.

Under Falling Skies is a breath of fresh air in the strategy genre, offering a unique blend of historical warfare and science fiction ingenuity. Its innovative gameplay mechanics, charming aesthetic, and deep progression system will keep you engaged for hours on end.

If you’re looking for a challenging and rewarding strategy game that breaks the mold, Under Falling Skies is an experience you shouldn’t miss!