Shock Tactics PC

Shock Tactics for PC is a turn-based science fiction strategy inspired by X-COM and Jagged Alliance series and the TV show Firefly. It is the first game developed by the German studio Point Blank Games.

The Plot

Shock Tactics for PC takes place in the far future where mankind colonized space and the vast part of the universe is controlled by the Imperial Consortium. One day, remains of an alien civilization are found on one of the newly discovered planets. That place soon become the arena where the strongest ‘players’ in the galaxy fought for control. We play as Aidan Carter, a convicted weapons smuggler who is released by his employers, on the condition that he will lead the colonization of a new planet commonly known as the New World. He will face different obstacles, including a consortium of mercanaries and a mysterious race that was created as the effect of the alternative human evolution. Those mysterious creatures tried to colonize the space, but failed to do so.

Mechanics

Gameplay mechanics in Shock Tactics for PC are similar to those from the previously mentioned X-COM series and to some found in Sid Meier’s Civilization series. As we play, we will be mostly exploring the planet that is divided into a couple of continents. It is procedurally generated before we start the campaign. At the beginning, our job is to secure the freshly build checkpoints and set the routes for convoys that travel between them. As we progress, we will unlock new areas of the planet and learn the secrets of the forgotten civilization. We can use the gathered knowledge to improve and advance our base where we conduct technological research and manage our soldiers and their equipment.

During missions, we control a group of up to six unique soldiers (each of them has their own personality, good and bad sides, and a personal skill tree). They will earn experience during the game and level up, which will unlock new skills and abilities and – thanks to technological research – give them access to more powerful weapons. Shock Tactics emphasizes the tactical aspect in combat. Key to victory lies in taking the advantage of the lay of the land and the game’s environment.

Technical Aspects

Shock Tactics for PC uses the classic isometric point of view. In terms of visuals, the game brings to mind newes installments of the X-COM series.

Last updated on 20 April 2016