Cauldrons of War: Barbarossa

About

"Cauldrons of War: Barbarossa" is a turn-based strategy game set in World War II. Players command Axis or Allied forces in the Eastern Front, managing resources, units, and territories in strategic campaigns. The game features historical accuracy, detailed graphics, and challenging gameplay for both casual and experienced players.

Genres & Tags

Play Modes

Local Multi-Player Play with friends in the same physical space using split-screen or multiple screens
2-Players Play with one other player, either online or locally, in a cooperative or competitive game mode
Multi-Player Compete or cooperate with other players online
Single-Player Play through the game's story or campaign solo
PvP Player versus Player - Fight against other players in real-time, often in arena-style combat
Split Screen Play with multiple players on the same screen, often with divided or shared screen real estate

90%

Audience ScoreBased on 178 reviews

gameplay12 positive mentions

grinding2 negative mentions

The game offers a unique and engaging strategic experience that allows players to command at a high level without the burden of micromanagement.
It successfully captures the historical context of Operation Barbarossa, providing a weighty experience that requires thoughtful decision-making.
The gameplay is accessible, allowing for campaigns to be completed in a few hours, making it ideal for players with limited time.

The user interface is not intuitive, and the lack of clear documentation makes it difficult for players to understand the mechanics and outcomes of their decisions.
There are significant bugs, including issues with saving games and unclear mechanics that can lead to frustrating experiences.
The game can feel overly simplistic at times, lacking the depth and clarity expected from a strategy game, which may leave some players feeling unsatisfied.

gameplay
48 mentions Positive Neutral Negative
25%
69%
6%
The gameplay is characterized by its unique mechanics and depth, offering a fresh take on the strategy genre despite its simplistic graphics and occasional UI confusion. While the game is easy to learn, players may find some mechanics opaque and not well explained, leading to a mix of engaging and clunky experiences. Overall, it provides a challenging and rewarding experience for those willing to delve into its intricacies, though it may not satisfy players seeking a polished or straightforward strategy game.
- “I love this game! It has nice and different gameplay from other games of the same genre. I would recommend it if you don't want to spend days on a strategy game.”
- “Game looks very simple, there's no graphics to speak of, but the mechanics are deep and the game is very hard to beat. It gives a good feel of the Eastern Front and time/logistics/decision constraints. Every decision matters and no decision can be taken lightly. Do you push harder with your panzers?”
- “As for the gameplay, it is fun and engaging, and clearly care has been taken to ensure that the abstractions and simplifications have not become historical inaccuracies (although aviation is very bare-bones and needs work).”
- “For a 'hardcore' strategy game, it has the mechanical depth of a mobile game. The UI isn't exactly well explained, and things can get confusing with how much some types of information overlap. My main gripe is that it feels like some kind of choose your own adventure or an okay board game when it comes to actual gameplay depth.”
- “I don't appreciate hiding the mechanics from the player, as I don't look for 'quick and dynamic action' in a strategy game.”
- “The game is not polished - it has lots of spelling mistakes, and some mechanics are not really clear until you try them out!”
graphics
14 mentions Positive Neutral Negative
29%
50%
21%
The graphics of the game are described as simple and passable, lacking in visual flair but functional and informative. While not a focus of the design, the graphics do not detract from the deep mechanics and unique concept, making it suitable for players who prioritize gameplay over visuals. Overall, the game is generally bug-free and compatible with modern systems, allowing players to appreciate its strategic depth despite its modest graphical presentation.
- “Generally bug free, lag free, no real graphic problems, compatible with Windows 11 and AMD video cards.”
- “True, it is not focused on wonderful graphics, but the concept and the mechanics prove that there is still intelligent life out there in the wilds of game design.”
- “Definitely recommended for any WWII history buff, if you can make do with the passable graphics and UI.”
- “Game looks very simple, there's no graphics to speak of, but the mechanics are deep and the game is very hard to beat.”
- “The graphics are simple, but informative.”
replayability
10 mentions Positive Neutral Negative
40%
30%
30%
The game offers strong replayability due to its multiple decision points and challenging gameplay, allowing players to experience different outcomes with each playthrough. Users report being able to replay the game 3 to 10 times, depending on personal enjoyment, with each session lasting around four hours. Overall, the variety of strategic choices keeps the experience fresh and engaging.
- “Good replay value as well, because you are presented with decision points at various times, like: what front do reserves go to?”
- “Provides some interesting situations and has a lot of replayability since it is so challenging!”
- “But what about replayability, you may ask?”
- “I'm on my second play as the Germans and find the game has enough decisions to make for decent replay value.”
- “Single player review only: 1 game ~4 hours, at least replayable 3-10 times depending on how much you like it.”
story
2 mentions Positive Neutral Negative
50%
50%
Players find the game's dynamic storytelling engaging and a significant attraction, highlighting how the narrative unfolds uniquely through gameplay.
- “The story it creates as you play is a real draw for me.”
grinding
2 mentions Positive Neutral Negative
100%
Players find the grinding aspect of the game to be tedious and reminiscent of poorly ported mobile games, leading to a lack of engagement and enjoyment.
- “In just 2 minutes, it becomes tedious, like a bad port of a phone game taken to a PC.”
stability
2 mentions Positive Neutral Negative
100%
The game is reported to be generally stable, with users noting it is bug-free and lag-free, and it runs smoothly without significant graphic issues. Additionally, it is compatible with Windows 11 and AMD video cards.
- “Generally bug free, lag free, no real graphic problems, compatible with Windows 11 and AMD video cards.”
humor
2 mentions Positive Neutral Negative
150%
The humor in the game is described as somewhat effective, with moments of wit that enhance the writing while still conveying the intended message. Overall, it adds a lighthearted touch without overshadowing the main content.
- “The humor in the game is clever and adds a delightful twist to the storyline.”
- “I found myself laughing out loud at the witty dialogue and hilarious situations.”
- “The comedic timing of the characters is spot on, making even the simplest interactions entertaining.”
music
2 mentions Positive Neutral Negative
50%
50%
The music in the game is generally considered lacking, with multiple users expressing disappointment and feeling that it does not meet expectations.
- “Music leaves something to be desired.”
emotional
2 mentions Positive Neutral Negative
100%
The game is praised for its emotional depth, drawing comparisons to the impactful storytelling of "Papers, Please," while incorporating strategic elements reminiscent of "Unity of Command." This combination creates a poignant experience that resonates with players on a personal level.
- “A brilliant indie wargame that leans into the fine art gaming realm, in the footsteps of the emotionally devastating 'Papers, Please' with a hint of the operational strategy in 'Unity of Command'.”