Strange Brigade is a third-person action-adventure shooter set in 1930s Egypt. Players control one of four agents who battle undead forces raised by the Witch Queen Seteki. The game blends shooting, environmental traps, light puzzle solving, and treasure hunting across a campaign that supports solo play or online co-op for up to four players.
Gameplay
The core loop centers on third-person shooting against waves of enemies while navigating ancient ruins. Each of the four heroes brings distinct magical abilities that complement prototype weapons such as the fire-spitting Krakatoa, the ice-firing Chill Burster, and the Blunderbuss. Combat rewards positioning and ability use, with enemies including mummies, fire-breathing assassins, armored minotaurs, and giant scorpions. Players must watch the environment for traps that can be triggered to eliminate groups of foes, such as spinning blades, fire pits, or falling boulders. Exploration involves searching for clues that open secret areas and activate mechanisms, leading to additional treasure and resources. The campaign progresses through dig sites, pyramids, and caves filled with combat encounters and these interactive elements.
Game Modes
The main experience is a story-driven campaign that can be tackled alone or with up to three others in online co-op. Two additional modes expand the formula for one to four players. Horde mode places teams against successive waves of increasingly difficult enemies, with earnings spent on weapons and upgrades in a manner similar to the campaign. Score Attack challenges players to complete a condensed section of a campaign level while maintaining a high combo multiplier through rapid kills. Both modes incorporate traps and environmental hazards from the main game.
Enemies and Traps
Seteki commands a variety of mythological creatures that require different tactics to defeat efficiently. Basic mummies advance in groups, while specialized units like minotaurs demand focused fire or trap assistance. Traps scattered throughout levels serve as powerful tools when activated at the right moment, turning the environment into an ally during larger fights. Careful observation of surroundings helps identify these opportunities without disrupting the flow of combat.
Exploration and Puzzles
Levels reward attention to detail with hidden entrances and ancient devices that require activation. Clues scattered in the environment guide players toward these elements, often unlocking new paths or valuable items. The mix of combat and these lighter puzzle sequences keeps sessions varied, encouraging players to revisit areas or coordinate with teammates to solve challenges faster.
Is It Worth Playing?
Strange Brigade delivers its strongest experience in co-op, where the combination of shooting, traps, and shared puzzle solving creates engaging sessions. Solo play remains viable but lacks the same dynamic interaction. The game has received consistent praise for its visuals, quirky tone, and accessible action since its 2018 release. No major ongoing updates or seasons have followed the initial free content additions, yet the core package continues to function well on PC. It suits players who enjoy third-person co-op shooters with exploration and light puzzle elements rather than pure competitive multiplayer or deep narrative focus. Those seeking a straightforward, replayable adventure with friends will find the most value here.
