Released in 2017, The Horus Heresy: Betrayal at Calth brought the grim darkness of the 31st millennium to life in a tactical turn-based strategy game. Set during the opening stages of the Horus Heresy, this game focuses on the brutal conflict between the Ultramarines and the Word Bearers on the planet Calth. With both traditional and VR modes available, the game offered a unique experience.
Factions
Ultramarines
The Ultramarines, the epitome of discipline and tactical prowess, are one of the two main factions in the game. Known for their strict adherence to the Codex Astartes, the Ultramarines’ units reflect their versatility and effectiveness in a variety of combat scenarios. Their gameplay emphasizes well-rounded units capable of both offense and defense, making them formidable opponents on the battlefield. Players command familiar units such as Tactical Squads, Terminators, and the indomitable Dreadnoughts, each with specific roles and capabilities.
Word Bearers
On the other side of the conflict are the Word Bearers, driven by fanatical devotion to Chaos and a burning hatred for the Emperor. Their units are characterized by their ferocity and willingness to sacrifice anything for victory. The Word Bearers’ gameplay leans heavily on aggressive tactics, utilizing units like Chaos Space Marines, Cultists, and the demonic Gal Vorbak. The inherent unpredictability of their forces adds an extra layer of challenge, pushing players to exploit weaknesses and capitalize on their brutal strength.
Campaign
The game’s campaign takes players through a series of missions inspired by the narrative of the Horus Heresy. Starting with the treacherous assault on Calth, players experience pivotal moments of the conflict through the eyes of both factions. The narrative is rich with lore, featuring characters and events that fans of the series will recognize and appreciate. The campaign’s structure balances story progression with tactical gameplay, ensuring that each mission feels consequential and engaging.
Available Units
The Horus Heresy: Betrayal at Calth features a variety of units for both factions, each with distinct abilities and strategic roles:
- Ultramarines
- Tactical Squads: Versatile infantry units capable of handling diverse combat situations.
- Terminators: Heavily armored elites with devastating close-quarters combat potential.
- Dreadnoughts: Armored war machines that bring heavy firepower and resilience to the battlefield.
- Word Bearers
- Chaos Space Marines: Ferocious infantry with a penchant for brutality.
- Cultists: Disposable units that swarm enemies with sheer numbers.
- Gal Vorbak: Demonic warriors with enhanced strength and durability, excelling in melee combat.
Normal vs. VR Mode
The game offers two distinct modes: traditional gameplay on PC and an immersive VR experience. Each mode provides a unique perspective on the battlefield, catering to different player preferences.
Normal Mode
In normal mode, players control the game through a top-down perspective typical of tactical strategy games. This mode emphasizes strategic planning and execution, allowing for a clear overview of the battlefield and unit positions. The interface is intuitive, providing easy access to unit stats, movement ranges, and attack options. This mode is ideal for players who prefer a more traditional approach to strategy gaming, focusing on meticulous planning and tactical maneuvers.
VR Mode
The VR mode, on the other hand, offers an entirely different experience. Players are immersed in the 31st millennium, witnessing the battles from a ground-level perspective. This mode enhances the grimdark atmosphere of the Warhammer 40k Warhammer 30k universe, making the horrors of war feel more immediate and visceral. The VR mode leverages the sense of scale and presence, making the imposing figures of Space Marines and the chaotic maelstrom of battle even more impactful. This immersive experience, however, requires players to adapt to a different style of gameplay, where situational awareness and quick decision-making are paramount.
Conclusion
The Horus Heresy: Betrayal at Calth successfully brings the legendary conflict of the Horus Heresy to life, offering players a tactical experience steeped in rich lore and grimdark atmosphere. The distinct playstyles of the Ultramarines and Word Bearers, combined with a compelling campaign, ensure that fans of the series and strategy games alike will find much to enjoy. Whether played in normal mode or through the immersive lens of VR, the game captures the essence of this pivotal moment in Warhammer 40k history, making it a worthy addition to any fan’s collection.
