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The year is 1946. The Nazis have won World War II. This chilling alternate history is the backdrop for Wolfenstein: The New Order, a game that revitalizes the classic FPS franchise with a compelling narrative, refined gameplay, and a chilling atmosphere. Developed by MachineGames, The New Order breathes new life into series protagonist B.J. Blazkowicz and the world he fights to reclaim.

Wolfenstein 3D, released by id Software in 1992, is considered a cornerstone of the first-person shooter genre. The FPS landscape has evolved dramatically since then, with trends shifting from classic run-and-gun action to the dominance of military shooters set in various historical periods and modern conflicts. After a poorly received 2009 Wolfenstein title and a lukewarm reception to early demos of The New Order, expectations were tempered. However, MachineGames defied those doubts with a game that resonated with both critics and players.

A World Under Nazi Rule

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The New Order’s narrative begins with a daring Allied raid on the fortress of General Willhelm “Deathshead” Strasse. The mission fails, leaving Blazkowicz incapacitated. He awakens 14 years later in a Polish mental hospital, only to discover a world dominated by the victorious Nazi regime.

The game’s storytelling is a surprising strength. While the “alternative history” theme has been explored before, The New Order delivers it with a compelling narrative and a consistent pace. B.J. Blazkowicz is transformed from a stereotypical American soldier into a fully realized character with depth and emotion. The narrative explores his internal struggles and relationships, adding a human dimension to the relentless action.

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The antagonists, too, are more than just cardboard cutouts. Deathshead is portrayed as a genuinely terrifying figure, his cold demeanor and twisted experiments creating a palpable sense of dread. Other villains, like Frau Engel, are equally memorable, contributing to the game’s oppressive atmosphere.

Refined Gunplay and Stealth

What does B.J. Blazkowicz do after 14 years of catatonia? He grabs a kitchen knife, takes down a Nazi guard, and embarks on a bloody rampage. The New Order delivers visceral, satisfying gunplay that blends classic FPS mechanics with new additions. The weapons, while limited in number, offer diverse options for dispatching enemies. From the versatile Assault Rifle with its grenade launcher to the powerful Automatic Shotgun, each weapon feels impactful and enjoyable to use.

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A surprising addition is the inclusion of stealth mechanics. While not as complex as dedicated stealth games, the ability to silently eliminate enemies adds another layer to the gameplay. Silently taking down commanders to prevent reinforcements can significantly alter the flow of combat.

The health system is a blend of old and new. Blazkowicz regenerates health up to certain thresholds, encouraging a more aggressive playstyle. Traditional health and armor pickups remain, alongside an “Overcharge” ability that temporarily boosts health for intense firefights.

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The perk system further enhances gameplay. By completing specific challenges, players unlock perks that subtly influence their playstyle, rewarding various approaches to combat. The open level design, with its multiple pathways and hidden areas, encourages exploration and replayability.

A World of Stark Contrasts

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Visually, The New Order may not match the technical prowess of some of its contemporaries, but it boasts a distinct artistic style. The stark contrast of red and black creates a visually striking and unsettling world. The character and enemy designs, particularly the imposing Nazi war machines, are detailed and memorable.

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The game’s audio design is exceptional. The voice acting is top-notch, with Brian Bloom delivering a powerful performance as Blazkowicz. The German dialogue is authentic and chilling. The sound effects and soundtrack, incorporating electronic distortion and industrial influences, perfectly complement the game’s oppressive atmosphere. The inclusion of German covers of popular songs adds a unique and unsettling touch.

Minor Technical Hiccups

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Despite its strengths, The New Order suffers from some technical issues, particularly texture pop-in, especially on AMD graphics cards. The weapon wheel can also be cumbersome at times. The inability to enable anti-aliasing within the game is another minor annoyance.

Conclusion

Wolfenstein: The New Order is a triumphant return for the franchise. Its gripping narrative, refined gameplay, and distinctive atmosphere make it a must-play for FPS fans. While some technical issues hold it back, the game’s strengths far outweigh its weaknesses, offering a thrilling and thought-provoking experience.