The wait for one of the most anticipated turn-based strategies of the year is finally over. MENACE, the second project from Overhype Studios, the masterminds behind the legendary Battle Brothers, has officially launched into Early Access on Steam today, February 5th.
Published by beloved strategy powerhouse Hooded Horse, MENACE is quite a change from its predecessor, trading the gritty low-fantasy mud of Battle Brothers for the cold, unforgiving vacuum of the Wayback System. If you’ve been following my coverage of MENACE, you know how much I enjoyed the preview demo a couple of months back. The combat mechanics are as solid as they come, decision-making is intuitive, and the game looks absolutely beautiful. And yes, Overhype is doubling down on the “brutal but fair” philosophy that made their first title a cult classic, so Battle Brothers fans will feel right at home.
Before we dive into the details, if you’re looking for a deep dive into whether this game lives up to the hype, be sure to check out my full MENACE review which game MENACE an 8.5out of 10.
A New Frontier of Tactical Depth
In MENACE, players take command of a strike force consisting of marines and mercenaries, operating from their mobile headquarters up in space, the strike cruiser TCRN Impetus. The game moves away from the hex-based infantry combat of the past, introducing a combined-arms approach that includes tanks, mechs, mortars, and even air support, coming together for an in-depth tactical experience like no other in 2026.
The core of the experience revolves around responding to distress calls across various worlds. Each mission is procedurally generated, ensuring that no two planetary drops feel the same. Players must manage their squad leaders, each with unique perk trees and attributes, while negotiating on the Black Market for equipment to keep their force combat-effective against a mounting alien threat. It’s all pretty cool and works amazingly well. In fact, the combination of turn-based tactical missions, going back to the Impetus to resupply and organize, and then going back into the fight is super satisfying as is.
What to Expect in Early Access?
Overhype Studios has a proven track record with the Early Access model, having done a fantastic job with Battle Brothers, and with the oversight of Hooded Horse, which also has an immaculate rapport sheet. MENACE arrives with a significant amount of content on day one:
- 50+ Mission Types: Procedurally constructed operations across three distinct biomes.
- Four Enemy Factions: Each requiring different tactical approaches to overcome.
- Strategic Layer: Upgrade your mobile HQ, hire new leaders, and manage the logistics of a strike force in deep space.
- A Year In Early Access: The developers plan to remain in Early Access for approximately one year, but that could be subject to change depending on player feedback.
- What Else To Expect: Additional planets and biomes, new mission types, more squad leaders and an ever greater array of equipment, as well as the full story.
One of the most refreshing aspects of this launch is the pricing strategy; the developers have stated they do not intend to increase the base price during or after the Early Access period, a move that is sure to be welcomed by players.
Summary: A Strategy Must-Play?
MENACE represents a massive leap in scale for Overhype Studios. It retains the tactical DNA of Battle Brothers, including the permanent consequences and detailed combat,but expands it into a sci-fi setting that demands mastery of positioning, suppression, and resource management. Having played it quite extensively by now, I have to say the complexity is sure to please fans of Battle Brothers.
Whether you’re a veteran of the mercenary life or a newcomer looking for a deep, turn-based challenge, MENACE is looking like a mandatory addition to any strategy gamer’s library this year.
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