Warhammer 40,000: Eternal Crusade
- March 16, 2017
- Behaviour Interactive Inc.
- 46h median play time
Multiplayer combat but possibly more of a battle against the game.
Based on the extensive universe of Warhammer 40,000, Eternal Crusade will take gamers into a vicious battle between four factions of the 41st millennium in order to control a persistent world at war. Whether it is PvP (Player versus Player) or PvE (Player versus Environment) squads will have to work together and engage in massive battles and exterminate the other factions! To do so; fans can choos…
Reviews
- The game captures the Warhammer 40k atmosphere well, with great graphics and sound design.
- The community is generally friendly and supportive, making it enjoyable to play with others.
- The combat system, while flawed, offers a unique mix of melee and ranged gameplay that can be fun.
- The game suffers from severe balance issues, with certain factions being overpowered compared to others.
- Matchmaking is problematic, often resulting in long wait times and unbalanced teams.
- The game is plagued by bugs, poor optimization, and connectivity issues, making it frustrating to play.
- gameplay896 mentions
- 23 % positive mentions
- 64 % neutral mentions
- 13 % negative mentions
The gameplay of the game has received mixed reviews, with many players appreciating the engaging melee and ranged combat mechanics reminiscent of titles like Gears of War and Call of Duty. However, criticisms highlight issues such as clunky controls, unbalanced classes, and repetitive gameplay, which can detract from the overall experience. While some players find enjoyment in the tactical elements and community aspects, others express frustration with the game's technical shortcomings and lack of polish, suggesting it may appeal more to dedicated Warhammer 40k fans than to a broader audience.
“Engaging melee and ranged gameplay.”
“This game is a fun tactical shooter; the mechanics are a bit hard to get used to, and the combat can sometimes feel overwhelming, but with this game's solid player base and community, it's a good game in the 40k genre.”
“The gameplay is a lot of fun.”
“The gameplay is the most uninspiring system I've ever experienced in a shooter; combat did nothing to immerse me in the world of 40k.”
“The gameplay itself is utterly broken; ranged weapons feel incredibly weak, and melee weapons are near instant kills. Races are largely unbalanced, in particular, Eldar possess a major advantage.”
“The maps are boring and few in number with little structural difference between them, and the gameplay is extremely repetitive.”
- optimization526 mentions
- 8 % positive mentions
- 60 % neutral mentions
- 33 % negative mentions
The game's optimization has been widely criticized, with many players reporting severe performance issues, including low frame rates and lag, even on high-end systems. While some users note that optimization has improved over time, the consensus remains that the game is still poorly optimized, requiring significant work to become playable for a broader range of PC configurations. Overall, players recommend waiting for further updates before investing in the game due to its current state of optimization.
“I've played since the first day and it's come a long way with optimization and addition to the game since then.”
“Optimization is also fairly good, and my fps is improving with every single patch!”
“It has been significantly optimized, many bugs have been corrected, and once again factions have been heavily rebalanced.”
“The first is performance; the game runs terribly, even on my beast, GeForce GTX 1080ti and Intel i7, but I still couldn't push my FPS past 15 or 20.”
“My specs are roughly 3x what this game demands at its highest standards, I had to turn all the graphics down to lowest just to make it 'playable' if you can call 20 FPS with long-term 2 FPS lag spikes that last for half of the games.”
“The game is poorly optimized, set to the highest graphics setting and resolution the game plays at a crawl, with a terrible frame rate.”
- graphics443 mentions
- 22 % positive mentions
- 64 % neutral mentions
- 14 % negative mentions
The graphics of the game have received mixed reviews, with many players noting that they appear dated and poorly optimized, often resembling visuals from older generations of gaming. While some appreciate the aesthetic and detail in certain elements, others criticize the overall performance, citing frequent lag and low frame rates even on high-end systems. Overall, the consensus suggests that while the graphics have potential, significant improvements in optimization and visual fidelity are needed to meet modern standards.
“Graphics are stunning and the playstyle is good.”
“The attention to detail in fx, graphics and dialogue is superb.”
“This game is amazing and fun for any 40k fan; the mechanics and graphics are on par, the gameplay draws you into the full scale war for your faction.”
“I bought in early and was extremely disappointed by the graphics and lack of optimization. At the time, the best I could say is that it was playable, even if it looked like a PS1 game.”
“The graphics look like they are from five years ago, and 15 fps is pathetic.”
“The gameplay itself is utterly broken, ranged weapons feel incredibly weak, and melee weapons are near instant kills. The game's appearance is downright pathetic; it has little in the way of graphical polish and feels incomplete.”
- stability282 mentions
- 4 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 96 % negative mentions
The game's stability is widely criticized, with numerous reports of bugs, glitches, and performance issues that hinder gameplay. Many players express frustration over the lack of balance and optimization, leading to long queue times and unplayable matches due to a dwindling player base. While some updates have improved the situation, the overall consensus is that the game remains a buggy and unfinished product, failing to meet initial expectations.
“Get in, and the game runs great.”
“The PvE mode is finally fixed and apparently bug-free from my current experiences.”
“Currently, the game looks great and it runs great.”
“The game is dead; when it first released I was so excited and hopeful, but as time went by the game never really improved and slowly died as the player base decreased. The game is buggy and needed a lot of work, needed more content which should be easy because it's the 40k universe... but they never got to it. In general, the game is dead and its body was left in the open as the devs didn't even bother burying the damn thing.”
“It's awful in every way possible, horrifically buggy, horrifically laggy, broken, and a general lack of care for anything other than a quick cash grab. Stay clear of this product.”
“The reality is that a naive and incompetent dev team took too long to make a game, so their publisher forced them to release in the buggy alpha state they'd been stuck in for a year.”
- monetization148 mentions
- 2 % positive mentions
- 57 % neutral mentions
- 41 % negative mentions
The monetization strategy of the game has been widely criticized as a cash grab, with many players expressing frustration over the presence of microtransactions in a full-priced title. Initially sold at a high price despite being buggy, the game later transitioned to a free-to-play model while still incorporating costly in-game purchases, leading to accusations of broken promises and deceptive advertising. While some microtransactions are cosmetic, the overall sentiment reflects a lack of trust in the developers and dissatisfaction with the game's monetization practices.
“Since the game is free-to-play, there are microtransactions, but they're only cosmetic. Weapons come in the form of master-crafted items, which have slightly less recoil or a slight increase in durability. Master-crafted weapons are easily unlocked by playing the game, so it's more pay-to-skip than anything.”
“I would also like to point out that the microtransactions in this game are purely cosmetic, while another title from this universe has $20+ DLC for unit packs.”
“The microtransactions are rife and cost a fortune - if you want to customize your marine to represent the vast factions and styles in 40k, prepare to spend a small fortune.”
“It lasted too long to be called a cash grab, but it was certainly closer to a cash grab than a genuine attempt to follow through on the vision that was promised to fans.”
“First selling the game totally overpriced when it was still full of bugs, then making it free to play and adding a lot of in-app purchases, and then shutting down the game.”
“The worst thing is that the original goals stated for the game were completely changed and we now have a full retail price game with microtransactions.”
- story90 mentions
- 9 % positive mentions
- 78 % neutral mentions
- 13 % negative mentions
The game's story aspect is widely criticized for its complete lack of narrative, with many reviewers noting that it offers no engaging backstory or campaign mode typical of the Warhammer 40,000 universe. Players express disappointment over the absence of lore and immersive quests, describing the experience as a barebones online shooter rather than a story-driven MMO. Overall, the consensus is that the game feels unfinished and lacks the depth and richness expected from a title set in such a well-established franchise.
“Unlike most other 40k titles, this one doesn't have some edgy grimdark backstory to set the scene as to why all of these factions are fighting each other on this one particular planet.”
“Now it's an entirely different story, and if you're a fan of the Warhammer 40,000 universe, it's an experience like no other.”
“But I feel it's really good and a step in the right direction. I hope they continue on with this and introduce a story mode like Bandai Namco did with their Ace Combat Infinity series, which is still active today on PS3.”
“In fact, it has absolutely no story at all.”
“Storyline = 1/10 there is none.”
“- absolutely zero story and a terrible trailer that was basically slapped together the night before they announced the game's release.”
- humor68 mentions
- 94 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 6 % negative mentions
The humor in the game is a standout feature, with players enjoying both intentional comedic elements and the unintentional hilarity stemming from glitches and gameplay mechanics. The community, particularly the ork players, adds to the fun with their role-playing and lighthearted interactions, while developers often make self-deprecating jokes about the game's shortcomings. Overall, while the game has significant development needs, its humorous moments and engaging community keep players entertained.
“The devs overpromised and underperformed on a regular basis, while making excuses and funny jokes about how stupid and crazy they themselves are on the news page.”
“Orkz are probably one of the best communities since they are usually in character and it's hilarious; they are by far the least upset about things.”
“The eternal crusade community are some of the most amazing people I've met online; they are the most enthusiastic, brilliantly funny, and endearing I've ever encountered.”
“This 'game' (I use that in the loosest term possible) needs so much development it's really not funny; in fact, it's quite sad.”
- grinding48 mentions
- 0 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 100 % negative mentions
Players generally find the grinding aspect of the game to be tedious and frustrating, particularly when it comes to leveling up and unlocking advanced weapons and gear. While some appreciate the rewarding nature of teamwork and progression, many feel that the grind is excessive, especially after reaching higher ranks, leading to a sense of unfulfillment and a lack of meaningful content. Overall, the grinding experience is seen as a significant drawback, detracting from the enjoyment of the game.
“Don't forget that the in-game economy has gradually crumbled into a freemium system with dual currencies, loot crates, and soul-withering amounts of grinding required to rank up past level 3.”
“After you reach the maximum level cap (level 6 or tier 6), there isn't much you can do afterwards than grinding and getting loot crates for the equipment to just have everything.”
“A lot of the game is grinding to unlock better mods, abilities, and items, but beyond that, nothing really worthwhile.”
- atmosphere36 mentions
- 33 % positive mentions
- 58 % neutral mentions
- 8 % negative mentions
The atmosphere of the game is a significant highlight, with many players praising its strong capture of the Warhammer 40k universe, characterized by a grim, violent, and immersive environment. While some critiques mention a lack of certain iconic elements, the overall presentation and unique mechanics contribute to a compelling and original atmosphere that resonates well with fans of the franchise. Players appreciate the attention to detail, including race-specific classes and tactical gameplay, which enhance the game's atmospheric experience.
“The game captures the 40k atmosphere very well.”
“This game's atmosphere is amazing.”
“I love this game's atmosphere and presentation.”
“This game lacks atmosphere and immersion; it lacks the feel of it being 40k. For example, the environment should feature shiny cathedrals with golden skulls, and the absence of actual imperial-looking urban areas on an imperial world doesn't help.”
“I love Warhammer, I love the general atmosphere, and I love the bizarre mix of melee and ranged combat that comes with the subject matter dealing with science fantasy knights... a subject I desperately wish had wider appeal, so I wouldn't have to keep coming back to this pile of garbage time and time again.”
“Imbalance is being addressed, but they need to create a more inviting atmosphere for newer players.”
- replayability18 mentions
- 17 % positive mentions
- 67 % neutral mentions
- 17 % negative mentions
Overall, the game's replayability is a mixed bag; while some players appreciate the variety of classes and potential for future expansions to enhance replay value, many express disappointment with the current state, citing a lack of content and performance issues that diminish long-term engagement. Several reviews suggest that once players unlock everything, there is little incentive to continue playing unless involved in a guild, leading to comparisons with other titles that offer more replayability.
“A lot of replayability, many classes, weapons, etc.”
“Sure it's not exactly the original concept, but they plan to work on that down the line while using the game in its finished state as a stepping stone to launch into their expansions that will only further the replayability and entertainment one can get from this game.”
“Space marines, chaos space marines, eldar, and orks are playable races, each with 5 classes.”
“Terrible performance across computers of all types, little to no replayability after unlocking everything unless you're part of a guild, and the developers have all but given up but refuse to show it.”
“The original Doom had more replay value.”
“It's pretty much exactly the same as the Star Wars Battlefront that just came out, in that, it has zero replay value after you quit for the first time.”
- music8 mentions
- 38 % positive mentions
- 38 % neutral mentions
- 25 % negative mentions
The music and voice acting in the game are generally regarded as decent, contributing positively to the overall atmosphere. However, opinions are mixed, with some reviewers finding the music mediocre and not enough to elevate the gameplay experience. Overall, while the music has its moments, it is overshadowed by criticisms of other game elements.
“The music and voiceover are quite good.”
“Voice acting, music, graphics, map design, and environment are decent, to be honest.”
“The game has some good aspects too: at times, it offers a visually surprisingly good description of the WH40K world, even if in small patches, with decent music.”
“Everything about this is horrible: gameplay, music, sounds, menus, and the arena gameplay.”
- character development8 mentions
- 50 % positive mentions
- 38 % neutral mentions
- 13 % negative mentions
Character development in the game is noted to include some progression elements, such as skills that enhance equipment management, but it falls short of expectations set by its initial marketing as an MMO. While the voice acting, animation, and character design are praised as exceptional, the overall experience is more akin to a team-based arena shooter rather than a deeply immersive RPG.
“The game idea and overall map and character design is great for people who are into the 40k universe.”
“I will note that the voice acting, animation work, and character design is top-tier gold!”
“So at present, the game isn't what everyone had hoped or expected, as I believe it was originally marketed as an MMO, whereas it's presently more comparable to a drop-in team-based arena shooter (like Team Fortress 2) with progression; some character development (such as skills which reduce the cost of equipment allowing you to equip/make room for other items, trinkets, and so on).”
- emotional6 mentions
- 100 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
Players express a deep emotional connection to the game, feeling both heartbreak and hope due to the developers' sincere announcements and apologies. The anticipation for a quality Warhammer game amplifies their emotional investment, highlighting the disappointment in its current state after a lengthy development period.
“I also saw the heartfelt announcements and apologies, and statements of determination that the devs gave us.”
“As a fan, it's heartbreaking to think how good this game could be, that it should be after all this time in development.”
“Which is heartbreaking because I am dying for a good Warhammer game!”
Critic Reviews
Warhammer 40,000: Eternal Crusade Review – Something Finally Sticks To The Wall
If Games Workshop is throwing Warhammer at every wall to see what sticks, Eternal Crusade is certainly one of the splatters that has the most promise. Games of this nature inevitably evolve over time, but at worst, we’ve got a really good shooter here. Just don’t expect it to walk you into the world properly. It wants you to shoot stuff.
70%Warhammer 40,000: Eternal Crusade Review
More of a multiplayer shooter than an MMO, Warhammer 40,000: Eternal Crusade suffers from balance and technical issues.
53%WAAAGH: Warhammer 40K: Eternal Crusade review
Warhammer 40K: Eternal Crusade shows a whole lot of promise as an exciting team-based multiplayer shooter. But 'promise' is less than what's demanded when we're talking about a game which is released, rather buggy, and not always as intuitive as an action-heavy game should be. At $49.99, it's hard to justify the investment until the price drops or the game is patched up respectably, but the potential and the fun it offers is real all the same.
65%