Is This War of Mine Worth Getting? A Deep Dive into a War Survival Masterpiece
Absolutely, yes. This War of Mine is absolutely worth getting. It’s not just a game; it’s an experience that will challenge, engage, and ultimately leave a lasting impact on you. If you’re seeking a game that transcends the usual entertainment fare and offers a thought-provoking look at the human cost of war, then look no further. This War of Mine is a unique survival game that sets itself apart through its deeply atmospheric setting, emotionally compelling narrative, and challenging gameplay. While it might not be for those seeking lighthearted escapism, it’s a must-play for anyone who appreciates games with substance and a message. It masterfully portrays the desperation and hard choices forced upon civilians caught in the crossfire, making it an unforgettable experience. The game’s focus on civilians rather than soldiers provides a refreshing and often heartbreaking perspective on the impact of conflict.
A Grim But Compelling Experience
This War of Mine throws you into the boots of ordinary people, thrust into extraordinary circumstances. You’re not a hero; you’re a survivor, struggling to make it through another day in a war-torn city. The game’s core mechanics revolve around managing a group of survivors, scavenging for resources during the night, and fortifying your shelter during the day. The constant tension and sense of vulnerability are what make This War of Mine so captivating.
The game doesn’t shy away from portraying the harsh realities of war. You’ll be forced to make difficult decisions, often with no easy answers. Do you risk venturing out for much-needed supplies? Do you help a desperate neighbor, even if it means less for your group? These are the questions that will haunt you throughout your time with the game. This is not a power fantasy; it’s a test of your morality and ability to survive under pressure.
The atmosphere is thick with despair, and the bleak visuals perfectly complement the game’s tone. The sound design is equally powerful, with haunting music and sounds that create an immersive and unsettling experience. Every decision has a consequence, and even the smallest actions can snowball into disasters, leading to potentially heartbreaking outcomes. This is precisely what makes the game so unforgettable.
Technical Issues and Survival Challenges
While the game is lauded for its unique premise and compelling narrative, it’s also essential to acknowledge that it’s not perfect. Some players have pointed out minor technical issues, such as occasional glitches. However, these rarely interfere with the overall experience.
Furthermore, This War of Mine is notoriously difficult. It’s a game that demands careful planning, patience, and a willingness to adapt to unexpected situations. Resources are scarce, the environment is dangerous, and your survivors are fragile. You’ll make mistakes, you’ll see characters suffer, and you might lose everything. But overcoming these challenges is precisely what makes the game so rewarding. The feeling of surviving against the odds is incredibly satisfying, and each playthrough offers new experiences and challenges.
Length and Replayability
A playthrough of This War of Mine focused on the main objectives is around 11 hours, but those looking for 100% completion can expect around 38.5 hours of playtime. This length offers great value, but also allows for high replayability. The varying characters, scenarios and random events can mean every new playthrough will bring with it unique and demanding challenges. The “Stories” DLC’s, such as Father’s Promise, The Last Broadcast, and Fading Embers, add even more depth to the game, offering new characters, narratives and scenarios.
Why You Should Play This War of Mine
This War of Mine provides a profound experience that few games can match. It’s not just a game about survival; it’s a poignant reminder of the human cost of war. It will force you to confront your own moral compass and consider the difficult decisions people must make when faced with unimaginable circumstances. If you’re looking for a game that will stay with you long after you’ve finished playing, then This War of Mine is a must-have. It’s a testament to the power of games to explore complex themes and leave a lasting impression on the player.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What exactly makes This War of Mine so difficult?
The game’s difficulty comes from the combination of limited resources, the constant threat of danger, and the fragile nature of your survivors. Even seemingly minor mistakes can quickly escalate, leading to devastating consequences. This is a game of difficult choices and managing limited resources effectively. The constant pressure of war and the scarcity of supplies make every decision critical.
How long do I need to survive in This War of Mine?
The length of your survival depends on which character group you start with, but the game ends when a ceasefire is declared. This is typically between 25 and 45 days after you start the game. The onset of winter provides a good clue that the end of the game is approaching.
How often should I feed my survivors?
Survivors need to eat at least every other day to remain nourished. However, you need to monitor their moods and status, as the frequency of meals may need to increase to maintain morale and prevent sickness.
How important is sleep for survivors?
Sleep is crucial for restoring energy levels. A character recovers one level of tiredness for every five hours of sleep. Certain traits can affect this, reducing it to as little as 2.5 hours. Having a good sleep schedule ensures your characters are in the best condition to handle the tasks of the day, and the stresses of the night.
What are some good team combinations?
Some of the most effective team combinations include Arica, Boris, Marin, and Katia; Roman, Boris, and Zlata; Marin, Katia, Bruno, and Marko; and Bruno, Pavle, and Katia. These combinations often offer a balanced set of skills and abilities for survival.
Does the placement of items in the shelter matter?
No, the placement of items within your shelter does not affect how they work. For example, a heater is just as effective on the ground floor as it is on the upper floors. Therefore, it is recommended to position items for maximum efficiency and ease of access.
Are the military always hostile?
Yes, most soldiers encountered in the game are hostile. They are depicted as dangerous and unpredictable, often involved in violent acts, looting, and preventing humanitarian aid.
What’s the main goal of the game?
The primary goal is to keep at least one member of your original group alive until the ceasefire, with all their stats above a 2 on a 4-point scale. This emphasizes the importance of survival for at least a few of your group.
What is the best gun in the game?
The “Military assault rifle fitted with a scope” is generally considered the best ranged weapon due to its range and damage. However, the standard assault rifle can be a more widely available and reliable option.
Should I use one or two heaters?
During winter, using two heaters is often necessary to maintain a comfortable temperature, maximizing temperature to 24°C. However, this will place a significant demand on your limited resources, requiring careful consideration of the trade offs.
How does the guard system work?
Assigning survivors as guards increases the defense of the shelter against raids. Usually, two guards are enough, but during events like “Outbreak of Crime,” you may need three. The guard system is crucial to reduce the likelihood of being robbed of resources or injured by attackers.
How do I make my survivors happier?
Happiness can be increased by ensuring good sleep, feeding addictions (coffee/smoke), drinking alcohol, enjoying music, and helping neighbors or NPCs. Prioritizing these factors helps to increase morale amongst your group, and helps them be more productive.
Is it possible to win This War of Mine?
Yes, the game is winnable if you survive until the ceasefire day with at least one member of your starting group. The number of days required is random but can be affected by the group of survivors you choose. This gives added incentive to plan and make the right choices throughout the game.
What is the scavenging time limit?
Scavenging runs begin at 8 PM and end at 5 AM. If a survivor does not return by 5 AM, they will return later in the day and may have an injury. This time limit adds more pressure to be efficient in your foraging and to be careful in choosing what to collect.
Do cooked meals spoil?
No, cooked meals do not spoil, but they cannot be traded or taken out during night runs. As long as there are cooked meals remaining, the stove cannot be used for other purposes. This reinforces the importance of carefully planning how you spend your resources and how you approach your scavenging and shelter tasks.
In conclusion, This War of Mine is a challenging but ultimately rewarding game that deserves a place in any serious gamer’s library. Its deep themes, immersive atmosphere, and challenging gameplay create a truly unforgettable experience. If you are looking for more than just entertainment, and desire a game that will challenge you on a deep emotional level, then this is the game for you.