In the shadows of the Imperium of Man, beneath the gleaming spires and amidst the teeming masses, lies the Underhive. Here, in the bowels of the colossal hive cities, Necromunda: Underhive Wars unfolds—a skirmish game that echoes the brutal, unrelenting struggle for survival and dominance. Released in September 2020 by Rogue Factor and Focus Home Interactive, this tactical RPG plunges players into the murky depths of Necromunda, a world steeped in betrayal, violence, and the ceaseless grind of human misery.
The Setting: A World of Endless Conflict
Necromunda’s Underhive is not a place for the faint-hearted. It is a labyrinthine warren of dilapidated structures, hazardous industrial zones, and shadowy corridors where death lurks at every corner. The game faithfully captures this grimdark essence, presenting an environment that is as treacherous as it is immersive. The Underhive is a character in its own right—a living, breathing entity that shapes the destinies of those who dare to venture within.
Players are thrust into the middle of gang warfare, leading one of the three main factions: House Escher, House Goliath, or House Orlock. Each faction embodies distinct ideologies and combat styles, reflecting the diversity and complexity of Underhive society. House Escher, with its all-female warriors, specializes in speed and chemical warfare. House Goliath, hulking brutes with a penchant for brute force, contrast sharply with the adaptable and resourceful House Orlock.
The Gameplay: Tactical Depth Amidst Chaos
Necromunda: Underhive Wars offers a unique blend of turn-based strategy and RPG elements. Players must navigate their gangs through a series of perilous missions, balancing tactical decisions with the harsh realities of the Underhive. The game’s combat system, while intricate, can sometimes feel cumbersome. However, it successfully conveys the brutal, unpredictable nature of gang skirmishes. Each move, each shot fired, and every melee attack carries weight, often tipping the scales between victory and death.
Customization is a cornerstone of the gameplay. Players can tailor their gang members with a variety of skills, equipment, and cosmetic options. This level of customization allows for a deep connection to one’s gang, turning each character into a unique warrior with their own story and potential. Yet, in the Underhive, no one is safe. The permadeath feature ensures that every decision is fraught with peril, and the loss of a seasoned gang member can be a devastating blow.
The Narrative: Stories Carved in Blood and Rust
The narrative of Necromunda: Underhive Wars is as fragmented and gritty as the world it portrays. The campaign mode follows the fortunes of various gangs, each with their own agendas and grudges. The storytelling is interwoven with the environment, delivered through mission briefings, dialogue, and environmental storytelling. The voice acting and character interactions add layers of depth, making the player feel truly immersed in the cutthroat world of the Underhive.
However, the game’s story is not without its flaws. Some players have criticized the pacing and depth of the campaign, finding it lacking in comparison to the rich lore of the Warhammer 40,000 universe. Despite these criticisms, the narrative succeeds in painting a vivid picture of life in the Underhive—an existence marked by constant struggle, fleeting alliances, and the omnipresent threat of betrayal.
Conclusion: A Grimdark Triumph with Flaws
Necromunda: Underhive Wars is a game that embraces the grimdark ethos of Warhammer 40,000 with unflinching resolve. Its portrayal of the Underhive is both haunting and captivating, drawing players into a world where every shadow hides danger, and every decision carries weighty consequences. The game’s tactical depth and customization options provide a rich, if occasionally unwieldy, gameplay experience.
While it may not be without its shortcomings, Necromunda: Underhive Wars stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of the Warhammer 40,000 universe. It invites players to delve into the depths of human depravity and resilience, offering a glimpse into a world where survival is a daily struggle and glory is won at the edge of a blade. In the end, it is a fitting homage to the dark, unrelenting spirit of the Underhive—a place where only the ruthless thrive.
