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The Wild West. The name conjures images of cowboys, sprawling plains, and the iconic revolver. This era, pivotal in shaping American culture, has long captivated audiences worldwide. While Hollywood has extensively explored this historical period, video games have, until recently, been slower to embrace its full potential. However, quality often trumps quantity, and Hard West stands as a testament to this. This review delves into the gritty, atmospheric world of Hard West, a turn-based tactical RPG developed by CreativeForge Games, the Polish studio behind Phantom Doctrine.

A screenshot from Hard West depicting two characters in a standoff.

Hard West offers a unique blend of historical setting and supernatural elements, weaving a narrative rich with folklore and the often blurred lines between reality and myth. The game follows the harrowing journey of a father and son, simply named Father and Warren, as they navigate the unforgiving landscape of the American frontier, battling not only outlaws and gunslingers, but also otherworldly forces.

A Supernatural Twist on the Classic Western

Father and Warren’s story begins with tragedy. After the death of his wife, Father plans to take Warren to Oregon for a fresh start, but financial constraints force them to remain in the harsh Wild West. Years pass, and Warren grows into a capable companion, joining his father in the struggle for survival. Their journey pits them against both human and supernatural adversaries, reflecting the superstitious nature of the era. CreativeForge Games clearly drew inspiration from the rich tapestry of Western folklore, adding a compelling layer of mystery and intrigue to the narrative.

A screenshot from Hard West showcasing the game's in-game currency and resources.

Beyond the gunfights and supernatural encounters, Hard West incorporates elements of resource management. Survival in the Wild West requires funds, and acquiring them is a crucial part of the gameplay.

Slow-Burn Gunfights and Tactical Gameplay

Gunfights, a staple of the Wild West genre, are reimagined in Hard West as strategic, turn-based encounters. Forget quick-draw duels; this game emphasizes careful planning and resource management. Each turn grants a limited pool of Action Points (AP) to spend on movement, shooting, and other actions. Effective AP usage is vital for tilting the odds in your favor.

A screenshot from Hard West displaying a character taking cover behind a wooden crate during combat.

Positioning and cover are paramount. Ending your turn in a secure location, shielded from enemy fire, is crucial. The better the cover, the lower the chance of taking damage. Beyond positioning, Hard West introduces a Luck mechanic. High Luck increases the likelihood of dodging attacks, but every successful dodge depletes it. Conversely, getting hit actually replenishes Luck, creating a risk-reward dynamic.

The game also features a card system, allowing players to equip characters with up to five ability cards. Choosing the right cards can significantly impact your playstyle and effectiveness in combat.

A Grim Economy and the Pursuit of Gold

Life in the Wild West is harsh, and Hard West reflects this through its economic system. Money is scarce, and acquiring it often involves considerable risk. Gold mining serves as a primary source of income, but it’s a gamble. Rich veins offer potentially high rewards but require substantial investment and specialized tools. Leaner veins offer less risk but smaller returns. Managing your gold wisely is essential for upgrading weapons and equipment, which are crucial for survival.

A screenshot from Hard West showing a gold mining operation.

The game constantly reminds you of the precarious nature of life on the frontier, where fortune can change in an instant.

A Dark and Atmospheric World

Hard West’s top-down perspective doesn’t detract from its ability to evoke the bleak beauty of the Wild West. The visuals are stark and unforgiving, capturing the desolate landscapes and the constant threat of violence. The soundtrack, composed by Marcin Przybylowicz of The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt fame, complements the visuals perfectly. The music is haunting and atmospheric, adding another layer of depth to the game’s dark and gritty world.

A scene from Hard West showcasing the game's bleak and atmospheric environment.

A Sole Journey: The Lack of Multiplayer

One notable omission in Hard West is the lack of multiplayer. The game is strictly a single-player experience, which is a missed opportunity. The potential for cooperative gameplay, perhaps allowing players to control Father and Warren together, is apparent.

A screenshot from Hard West depicting a character aiming a rifle.

Conclusion

Despite the absence of multiplayer, Hard West offers a compelling and immersive experience. Its unique blend of historical setting, supernatural elements, and tactical gameplay sets it apart in the Wild West genre. The game’s grim atmosphere, challenging combat, and compelling narrative create a truly memorable experience for those seeking a darker take on the Wild West.