At The Game Awards held this evening, Wargaming, renowned for their popular titles like World of Tanks, World of Warships, and World of Warplanes, made an unexpected announcement: the introduction of Steel Hunters. This innovative game, utilizing the capabilities of Unreal Engine 5, marks a departure from their previous works, showcasing a unique gaming experience.
Prior to the awards, we had the opportunity to connect with the developers from Wargaming’s Guilford team for an exclusive preview of Steel Hunters. Initial impressions evoked a sense of Beast Wars, though it is important to clarify that this game diverges significantly from the Transformers franchise. Steel Hunters is a third-person mech hero shooter set on an expansive open-world map, merging elements typical of both battle royales and extraction shooters.
Steel Hunters will be available at no cost, encouraging players to hone their skills and engage in strategic team play. Each match involves teams of two, and success hinges on tactical decision-making and optimal positioning rather than just shooting precision. The game features impactful cooldown abilities, requiring players to work in sync with their teammates—a system that Wargaming has dubbed “Duo Symbiosis”based on extensive testing of team dynamics.
Understanding Steel Hunters: The Lore Behind Wargaming’s New IP
The Hunters: Mechanical Beasts with Individual Powers and Weaponry
Steel Hunters unfolds in a post-apocalyptic landscape, where an exceptional alien resource known as “Starfall”has altered Earth’s surface irreparably. The surviving fragments of humanity now reside either in space or deep underground. The Starfall material is vital for technological advancement, prompting those who possess a natural resistance to its energy—dubbed Hunters—to transform their consciousness and battle for control over this precious resource in designated hunting grounds.
Steel Hunters Release Date
Limited Closed Playtest for Steel Hunters Has Begun!
A limited 10-day closed playtest for Steel Hunters has commenced, inviting players to register through the Wargaming Game Center or on Steam. Players can anticipate an Open Beta in Spring 2025, with the initial launch targeting PC and eventual plans for console availability.
This test features an impressive lineup of seven unique mechs (shown in the images above), with more Hunters and enriched lore scheduled for release seasonally after the game’s formal debut. Though monetization strategies remain undeveloped, the developers hint at the inclusion of cosmetic purchases and a potential battle pass structure in the future.
The gameplay mode showcased during The Game Awards is known as “Starfall Harvest,”which will be part of the playtest experience. The finalized version of the game is set to introduce various other modes and events, evolving continuously as a live service title.
For full transparency, it is important to note that ScreenRant is a member of the judging panel at The Game Awards 2024. However, our editorial integrity remains intact, as our editorial process is independent of our participation in the judging process.
Steel Hunters is currently accessible on the Wargaming Game Center and Steam.
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