Hex of Steel is a refreshing WWII wargame covering all fronts featuring a certain amount of original mechanics. Fight in solo against finally a decent AI throughout Europe, Africa or the Pacific, or against a friend in the cross-platform PBEM or real time multiplayer. Coop is also an option!
Players praise the game's AI for its aggressive and logical behavior. The AI utilizes reconnaissance to identify and attack weak spots in the player's defenses, without resorting to unfair advantages or cheating. Even on lower difficulty settings, the AI's ability to coordinate attacks and respond to the player's movements creates a genuinely challenging experience.
The game offers a vast array of scenarios covering the major fronts of World War II, including Europe, North Africa, and the Pacific. Players can choose to play through historical campaigns or tackle massive, open-ended scenarios that allow them to shape the course of the war through their strategic decisions. The scenarios range from smaller, focused battles to grand, theater-wide operations, providing ample content and replayability.
Players can tailor the experience to their preferences by adjusting various settings, such as removing turn limits or unit limits. The game's robust modding tools and editors enable players to create their own custom scenarios, maps, and units, further expanding the gameplay possibilities and catering to the dedicated community.
The game strikes a balance between depth and accessibility, providing players with a wealth of information and strategic options without overwhelming them. The clear presentation of combat modifiers, supply lines, and unit capabilities allows players to plan their moves effectively, without getting lost in a sea of complex systems.
While not a AAA-level production, the game's graphics and audio design contribute to an immersive gaming experience. The detailed unit representations, visually striking terrain, and realistic combat sounds and ambient noise enhance the sense of immersion and strategic tension.
The developer, Valentin Lievre, is widely praised for his active involvement with the community. Players report that he is responsive to feedback, quickly addressing bugs and implementing community-requested features. The developer's passion and dedication to improving and expanding the game have earned the respect and loyalty of the player base.