Players Like...

❤ Tactical Turn-Based Combat

Players control a party of three child characters, each equipped with one of three weapon types - machine gun, grenade launcher, or cannon. Switching between these weapon types is a key strategic element, as players must match the right weapon to the enemies they are facing in order to delay their turns. The combat system has new enemy types and mechanics that keep battles feeling fresh and challenging. Players must carefully manage their limited resources, such as HP and SP, while also considering the mental states of their party members, which can be impacted by the battles. One major new addition is the Managarm system, which allows players to knock out enemies instead of killing them, at the cost of losing all experience gained from that battle. This adds an extra layer of strategy, as players must decide whether to sacrifice the XP to save their child soldiers from harm.

❤ Resource Management and Intermission Activities

Between battles, players can upgrade the tank's weapons and abilities, manage their party's morale and supplies, and engage in optional activities like farming or crafting. These intermission periods are crucial for keeping the party prepared for the challenges ahead. Players must carefully balance their time and resources, deciding which upgrades to prioritize and which party members to focus on. The choices made during these periods can have lasting impacts on the story and gameplay. Reviewers praise this resource management aspect, noting that it adds depth and tension to the experience.

❤ Narrative Impact on Gameplay

The game places a strong emphasis on its narrative, and the story has a significant impact on the gameplay. The choices made by the player, particularly in the new Judgment system, can alter the course of events and lead to different outcomes. Additionally, the game's use of the Soul Cannon, a powerful but morally questionable weapon, adds an extra layer of tension and difficult decision-making. When the party's tank takes enough damage, the Soul Cannon will automatically select a child to be sacrificed, forcing the player to either quickly defeat the enemy or use the Managarm to save the child. Reviewers have praised this narrative-driven approach, noting that it creates a deep emotional investment in the characters and their struggles.