A departure from its traditional naming conventions, Wargaming has announced a new mech-based extraction shooter titled Steel Hunters. This game, set to release on PC in early access on April 2nd and on consoles by 2026, aims to capture a younger demographic with its ten-meter-tall robots capable of immense destruction. The game features seven unique mechs at launch, each with distinct abilities designed for cooperative play. Players will engage in strategic combat as they navigate through destructible environments, making every match an exhilarating experience.

The core concept of Steel Hunters revolves around six teams of two battling it out in these colossal machines. Andrew Walker, senior producer on the project, highlights that the game intends to provide players with meaningful choices regarding partnerships and strategies. Unlike previous titles such as World of Tanks or World of Warships, this game introduces a narrative where corporations develop these "Hunters" to extract an alien resource known as Starfall after a catastrophic event contaminates Earth. These Hunters are not just machines but mind-melded extensions of their human pilots.

In the main game mode, The Last Stand, victory hinges on either eliminating all opposing teams or controlling the extraction zone to escape safely. Each Hunter comes equipped with special abilities that complement one another, encouraging teamwork. For instance, Weaver's gatling gun and shield pair effectively with Trenchwalker's healing capabilities and longer-range attacks. Matches take place across expansive maps designed to accommodate the sheer size and power of these mechs, resulting in large-scale destruction that adds realism and scale to the gameplay.

Despite its focus on survival, Steel Hunters offers forgiving mechanics with substantial health bars and dodging capabilities. Reloading and repairing damage require significant time commitments, adding tactical depth. Additionally, players can engage AI-controlled drones for health kits and upgrades, though these encounters may feel less thrilling compared to battling other Hunters. The game's development is ongoing, with certain features like the grappling hook being shelved due to technical challenges related to latency and player experience.

Steel Hunters promises a blend of strategy and spectacle, combining elements reminiscent of games like Apex Legends and Titanfall 2. With its emphasis on teamwork, impactful abilities, and destructible environments, the game positions itself as a formidable entry into the competitive multiplayer space. As Wargaming continues refining this title ahead of its full release, players eagerly anticipate the opportunity to pilot these towering giants in epic battles.