MENACE, the latest turn-based tactical RPG from Overhype Studios (creators of Battle Brothers), launched into Early Access on February 5, 2026. Set in a distant, lawless sci-fi frontier called the Wayback system, you command a strike force of marines, mercenaries, and criminals answering distress calls and facing pirates, corporations, fractured governments and eventually a far more dangerous alien threat. The atmospheric intro cinematic sets an intriguing tone, but in the current Early Access build, the main focus is on tactical missions, squad building, gear progression, and survival rather than a deep linear story.
Core Gameplay: Brutal, Rewarding, and Unforgiving
This is a classic turn-based tactics game that punishes even tiny mistakes, think XCOM-level tension combined with Battle Brothers-style squad management. You act as the commander, choosing your approach to each firefight while leveraging the unique abilities of your squad leaders. Each leader brings powerful, synergistic perks that shape how you build squads. Combining abilities correctly creates satisfying combos that can turn the tide against overwhelming odds. Get it wrong, and you’ll watch your carefully equipped team get shredded. The game throws you straight into the deep: your first mission in a desert environment pits you against pirates. Without a solid grasp of the mechanics, expect failure.
Squad Customization and Progression
Squad building feels very satisfying. The black market and bargaining system let you hunt for better gear, while a promotion system (up to Tier 4) unlocks meaningful bonuses and elite status for your troops. The ship management layer exists but feels unfinished and somewhat limited in Early Access a common situation for a fresh release. It has the potential to become a cool strategic hub as development continues.
Other Systems and Factions
Three distinct factions are already in the game, tied to a trust/reputation system that adds interesting diplomatic and strategic layers. These choices matter for contracts, resources, and long-term campaign flow.
Early Access State and Verdict
Some systems naturally feel constrained right now, likely intentional to let players master the core loop before everything opens up. That restraint helps new players focus on learning the punishing but fair combat.
MENACE already delivers excellent turn-based tactical gameplay with tons of depth, distinctive squad leaders, varied missions, and meaningful progression. It’s rough around the edges (as expected in Early Access), but the foundation is rock-solid.
For fans of XCOM, Battle Brothers, or hard tactical squad games, this is a very promising title. If the developers keep listening to feedback and flesh out the campaign/ship layers, MENACE has a great future.
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