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It Takes a War

PC (Microsoft Windows) • 2025

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Quick resume

Graphics! Guns! Glory! Get ready to drop into a devastatingly real depiction of the battlefield as you and your team take on a relentless foe. It Takes a War presents a new vision for the team-based tactical shooter genre.

Global score

93/100

Genres

Action, Adventure, Indie, Tactical, Shooter

Pros

  • Innovative meta-narrative storytelling
  • Emotional and relatable themes
  • Short and accessible experience
  • Creative use of steam features
  • Thought-provoking social commentary

Cons

  • Clunky and weak gameplay mechanics
  • Very short with limited replay value
  • Some voice acting and writing criticized
  • Technical issues and bugs reported
  • Some players found story execution uneven

Motivations

  • Autonomy
    3

    "Players have some control over their actions in the shooter segments but much of the experience is narrative-driven and scripted, limiting full autonomy."

  • Competence
    -2

    "Gameplay is intentionally clunky and low-skill, with weak shooting mechanics and predictable bot behavior, focusing more on story than skill."

  • Competition
    1

    "There is a leaderboard and team-based shooter elements, but competition is minimal and secondary to the narrative experience."

  • Continuation
    -3

    "The game is short (~45 minutes), designed for a single sitting, with limited replay value and no habitual play."

  • Cooperation
    2

    "Players experience team-based matches with teammates interacting, but cooperation is scripted and part of the story rather than player-driven."

  • Creativity
    4

    "Highly creative storytelling using meta-narrative, fourth-wall breaks, and innovative use of Steam features and player data."

  • Domination
    -3

    "Interactions emphasize shared experiences and emotional connection rather than exerting control or superiority over others."

  • Escapism
    4

    "The game offers a unique, immersive narrative experience that allows players to reflect and escape into a meta story about online friendships."

  • Expectation
    -4

    "Players engage voluntarily out of interest in the unique narrative and artistic experience, not out of obligation or pressure."

  • Experimenting
    3

    "The game encourages exploration of unconventional storytelling mechanics and meta elements, inviting players to experience new narrative forms."

  • Exploration
    1

    "Some exploration of the game environment and hidden elements occurs, but the setting is limited and mostly familiar."

  • Expression
    -2

    "Limited customization or personalization; players mostly experience preset characters and environments."

  • Fantasy
    1

    "The game uses a fictionalized shooter setting with meta-fictional elements, blending imaginative and realistic aspects."

  • Fellowship
    3

    "Strong sense of community and shared experience is evoked through the narrative about online friendships and social dynamics."

  • Growth
    1

    "Some personal reflection and emotional growth are encouraged, but gameplay learning is minimal."

  • Health
    -5

    "No physical activity or health-related features; gameplay is sedentary."

  • Idle
    -3

    "Requires focused attention during its short duration; not designed for background or idle play."

  • Intimacy
    4

    "The game fosters emotional intimacy and connection through its narrative about friendship, social anxiety, and personal relationships."

  • Leadership
    -4

    "Players do not lead others; interactions are scripted and cooperative without leadership roles."

  • Progression
    -4

    "No item collection or upgrades; the experience is static and narrative-focused without traditional progression."

  • Relaxation
    2

    "The game balances moments of tension with emotional catharsis, providing a thoughtful and reflective experience."

  • Sensation
    3

    "Uses audio-visual surprises and immersive sound design to create emotional and sensory impact."

  • Status
    -3

    "Recognition is minimal and not a focus; the game emphasizes personal experience over social status."

  • Story
    5

    "Strong narrative immersion with meta storytelling, character development, and emotional themes central to the experience."

  • Strategy
    -3

    "Gameplay involves minimal strategy; focus is on narrative rather than tactical decision-making."

  • Thrill
    2

    "Contains moments of suspense and surprise, including fourth-wall breaks and unexpected events."

  • Value
    4

    "Players generally feel the game offers good value for its price and duration due to its unique narrative experience."

  • Violence
    -2

    "While combat is present, it is intentionally weak and secondary to the story, emphasizing emotional content over violence."

  • Survival
    -4

    "The game operates in low-risk, stable conditions without survival or resource management challenges."

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    Last update: 06/03/2026