RAID: World War II stands out as a cooperative first-person shooter that throws players into the chaos of World War II, focusing on team-based missions against Nazi forces. Released in 2017, this action-oriented title emphasizes four-player co-op gameplay, where you and your squad tackle objectives like disrupting enemy operations or securing valuable assets. With elements drawn from heist-style mechanics, it appeals to those who enjoy strategic teamwork in a historical setting, blending shooting with tactical decisions.
Gameplay
In RAID: World War II, the core experience revolves around coordinating with up to three other players to complete missions set across various European locations during the war. You control one of four distinct characters, each bringing unique skills to the table, and engage in first-person combat using period-appropriate weapons like rifles, submachine guns, and grenades. The gameplay loop involves infiltrating areas, taking down guards stealthily or going in guns blazing, and extracting with loot such as gold. A flexible skill system allows customization of abilities, letting you adapt your approach whether focusing on reconnaissance, assault, reconnaissance, or support roles. Combat feels weighty, with an emphasis on positioning and cover, while cooperative elements require communication to handle enemy waves effectively.
Mechanics include managing health through limited revives and using environmental hazards to your advantage, like explosive barrels or choke points. Progression comes from replaying missions to earn experience and unlock perks, which enhance your character's effectiveness in specific scenarios.
Game Modes
The game features a selection of story-driven missions that form the main campaign, where your team works to undermine the Nazi war effort through targeted operations. These missions vary in objectives, from sabotage to theft, and can be approached with different strategies based on your squad's setup.
Beyond the standard missions, there's Operations mode, which offers extended challenges that build on the core gameplay with higher difficulty and randomized elements for replayability. This mode encourages repeated attempts to master layouts and enemy patterns.
Mechanics and Features
RAID: World War II incorporates a class-based system with four raiders: Recon, Assault, Insurgent, and Demolitions, each with specialized abilities that influence how missions unfold. For instance, the Recon class excels at spotting enemies from afar, while Demolitions handles explosives for breaching or traps. The game supports both stealth and loud approaches, with mechanics that penalize detection through increased enemy reinforcements.
Weapon customization is present, allowing modifications like suppressors or scopes to fit your playstyle. The WWII setting provides authentic backdrops, from forests to bunkers, adding to the tactical depth.
Is It Worth Playing?
Player reception for RAID: World War II has been mixed, with an OpenCritic score of 43 indicating significant criticism around repetitive elements and technical issues at launch. Reviews often point to its similarities with other co-op shooters but note shortcomings in polish and variety. However, some players appreciate the cooperative focus and the satisfaction of pulling off successful heists in a historical context.
If you thrive on team-based shooters with a heist twist and have friends to join you, it could provide solid entertainment through its mission structure. Solo play is possible with AI companions, but the experience shines in multiplayer. With no ongoing updates since its release, it's best suited for those seeking a budget-friendly co-op title rather than a long-term investment. Consider it if you enjoy games like Payday but want a WWII flavor, though be prepared for dated visuals and mechanics by today's standards.
