MENACE is a turn-based tactical RPG that blends strategy, RPG elements, and simulation in a sci-fi setting. Developed by Overhype Studios, the team behind Battle Brothers, this PC game places you in command of a strike force battling an alien threat in the isolated Wayback system. Cut off from the Core Worlds, you lead marines, mercenaries, and criminals through procedurally generated operations, making choices that shape alliances and outcomes.
Gameplay
In MENACE, you manage a strike force from the cruiser TCRN Impetus, responding to distress calls across planets. Tactical battles unfold on diverse battlefields affected by weather and biomes, where you deploy infantry squads and vehicles like tanks and walkers. Combat emphasizes flanking, suppression fire, and cover usage, with weapons varying in range, damage, and effectiveness against armor types. Squads can be equipped with items such as flamethrowers, sniper rifles, EMP cannons, drones, and grenades.
Squad leaders have unique backstories and personalities, influencing morale and performance. Successes grant promotions and perks from varied trees, adding abilities, while failures can lead to temporary setbacks. Permanent losses are common, forcing adaptation. You upgrade the cruiser for orbital support and acquire gear from black markets or spoils, balancing resources for missions.
Game Modes
The core experience revolves around a grand campaign with branching multi-mission operations. These operations consist of procedurally generated missions, drawing from 50 unique types, set across three biomes and planets in the early access version. You choose paths, such as prioritizing enemy air defenses or hostage rescues, with decisions impacting the system-wide narrative.
There are no distinct multiplayer modes; gameplay focuses on single-player strategic planning and tactical execution. Each run varies due to procedural elements, offering replayability through different character pools and equipment choices.
Factions and Mechanics
Interactions with local factions shape your strategy. Pirate warlords, corporations, and planetary governments offer alliances, while criminal groups provide intel and hacking, and repair teams supply tech. Relations affect favors and resources. You face four enemy factions, plus an alien menace with unpredictable tactics.
Mechanics include managing readiness levels before engagements and navigating branching paths in operations. Vehicle deployment requires pilots and trade-offs, like sacrificing infantry gear for artillery. Suppression affects both enemies and allies, adding risk to heavy fire.
Is It Worth Playing?
MENACE entered early access on February 5, 2026, with plans for about a year of development, incorporating community feedback via Discord and Steam forums. It has received very positive reception, with 8,766 total reviews at 91% positive for English-language ones and 92% positive in recent reviews.
Players praise the tactical depth, mission variety, and immersive squad management, often comparing it favorably to XCOM and Battle Brothers. If you enjoy challenging turn-based strategy with permanent consequences and procedural replayability, MENACE stands out. However, those seeking quick action or multiplayer might look elsewhere, as its focus is on deliberate, single-player campaigns.
