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Caliber, developed by 1C Studio and co-published by Wargaming (known for World of Tanks), is a free-to-play, third-person tactical shooter. Having been in open beta since 2019, and now officially launched on Steam, this review analyzes the game’s strengths and weaknesses based on years of gameplay experience. Is it worth adding to your Steam library? Let’s dive in.

What You’ll Love About Caliber

Alt: A screenshot from Caliber showing a player aiming down sights in a snowy environment.

Accessible to Casual Players

Caliber resembles a hero shooter, where each character wields unique weapons and abilities, similar to Rainbow Six Siege. However, unlike many hero shooters that prioritize PvP, Caliber focuses on PvE. Stepping into the shoes of a skilled operative, eliminating waves of terrorists and mercenaries, offers a satisfying experience for newcomers. This is far less daunting than being thrown into a PvP match and overwhelmed by seasoned players. Don’t mistake this for easy mode, though. Enemies in Caliber are strategically designed and pose a real threat.

Unlike many hero shooters prioritizing PvP, Caliber focuses on PvE gameplay.

Alt: A screenshot from Caliber showcasing enemy AI using coordinated tactics, including suppressing fire and grenades.

For example, machine gunners will pin you down behind cover, while others use grenades – fragmentation, flashbang, or gas – to force you to relocate, leaving you vulnerable. Of course, PvP and PvPvE modes are available for those seeking a competitive challenge and testing their teamwork.

Alt: A screenshot from Caliber showing a team of players working together in a PvPvE match.

Emphasis on Teamwork

Caliber’s core gameplay revolves around four-player squads, each member fulfilling a crucial role: Assault, Support, Medic, and Sniper.

• Assault: Focuses on close to medium-range combat, primarily using assault rifles.
• Support: Provides cover fire and suppression, typically wielding LMGs.
• Medic: Heals and revives teammates, often equipped with SMGs.
• Sniper: Eliminates targets from afar with precision rifles.

Completing missions requires effective collaboration between all four roles, as each is designed to shine in specific situations. For instance, when defending a position, the Support’s heavy firepower and ample ammunition become invaluable.

Alt: A screenshot from Caliber highlighting the Support class providing suppressing fire during a defensive objective.

Meanwhile, a Sniper can neutralize distant threats picking off the team. Assaults excel at clearing out groups of enemies with their high rate of fire and accuracy, while Medics keep the squad alive with their healing and revival abilities. Teamwork makes Caliber approachable for less experienced players. However, performing poorly can hinder the team’s effectiveness.

Caliber’s mission design encourages strategic cooperation between all four classes.

Alt: A screenshot from Caliber depicting the four classes working together in a firefight.

Minimal Pay-to-Win Elements

As a free-to-play title, monetization is inevitable. However, Caliber avoids excessive pay-to-win mechanics. Currently, the game features over 68 operators from various countries, with 64/68 purchasable with in-game credits earned through gameplay. The remaining four are tied to a paid Battle Pass but are expected to become available for purchase with credits later.

Caliber’s monetization system avoids aggressive pay-to-win practices.

Alt: A screenshot from Caliber showcasing the operator selection screen, highlighting the various operators available.

This model, implemented by 1C over the past year, allows for consistent operator acquisition without mandatory spending. Furthermore, highly effective operators are accessible early on for a reasonable credit cost. The primary monetization focus is cosmetic skins, which don’t impact gameplay balance.

What You Might Dislike About Caliber

Alt: A screenshot from Caliber highlighting a weapon model inconsistency.

Weapon Quirks

Caliber’s gunplay isn’t inherently bad. The shooting mechanics feel satisfying, and the sound design and weapon animations are well-executed. However, the weapon system has some peculiar aspects. Firstly, each operator has a fixed loadout, limiting playstyle variety. Secondly, some weapon models are inexplicably tied to character skins.

Alt: A screenshot from Caliber comparing two different weapon models used by the same operator with different skins.

For example, the SSO operator Lazootchik (Belarus) uses an AK74UB. However, equipping the “Bodyguard” skin (inspired by John Wick) changes his weapon to an AR15 TTI, despite retaining the same stats, fire rate, and sound. This visual inconsistency can be jarring.

Conclusion

Caliber provides a compelling free-to-play tactical shooter experience with a strong emphasis on teamwork and accessible PvE gameplay. While the weapon system has some quirks, the minimal pay-to-win elements and engaging core gameplay loop make it worth considering. If you’re looking for a team-based shooter with a focus on tactical play, Caliber is definitely worth checking out.