Men of War: Assault Squad 2 Review (After 120 Hours) – Is It Still Worth Playing?
If you're wondering whether Men of War: Assault Squad 2 is still worth playing in 2025, especially for RTS fans who love micromanagement and tactical depth, this review is based on over 120 hours of gameplay, primarily in campaign missions and modded scenarios.
This is not a surface-level review. This is from someone who actually spent time mastering the systems.
Quick Verdict
- Best for: Hardcore RTS players, micromanagement fans, mod lovers
- Not ideal for: Casual RTS players or those who dislike complexity
- Biggest Strength: Tactical freedom & direct unit control
- Biggest Weakness: Vanilla AI can feel inconsistent
- Overall Rating: 8/10
First Impressions – Tough Start, Strong Payoff
When I first launched Men of War: Assault Squad 2, the UI felt overwhelming. There are multiple layers of controls, unit inventories, ammunition types, stances, armor angles, and environmental interactions.
The learning curve is steep.
However, after a few hours, the interface becomes clear and extremely precise. What initially feels clunky transforms into one of the most detailed RTS control systems available.
If you push past the first few hours, the depth becomes rewarding rather than frustrating.
Campaign Experience – Tactical Freedom at Its Best
Most of my 120 hours were spent in campaign missions.
The campaign does not force you into a single approach. Instead, it allows:
Flanking through terrain and cover
Using artillery strategically
Capturing enemy vehicles
Managing infantry equipment manually
Playing slowly and methodically or aggressively
The freedom to experiment is what keeps missions engaging even on replay.
Unlike many RTS games that rely on build orders and economy management, Men of War: Assault Squad 2 focuses on battlefield tactics and resource control within the mission itself.
Direct Unit Control – The Game-Changer Feature
One of the most unique mechanics in Men of War: Assault Squad 2 is Direct Control Mode.
You can:
Take control of individual soldiers
Manually aim weapons
Drive tanks
Rotate turrets
Precisely position units
This mechanic transforms the game from a standard RTS into a hybrid tactical experience. You're not just issuing commands - you're actively participating in combat.
For players who enjoy micromanagement and hands-on control, this feature alone makes the game stand out.
Mods & Custom Scenarios – Massive Replayability
The modding community is one of the biggest reasons this game remains relevant.
After finishing campaign missions, mods add:
Custom historical battles
AI overhauls
New units and factions
Gameplay balance changes
Entire scenario packs
If you enjoy extended replayability and community-driven content, the mod support significantly enhances the value of the game.
For RTS players who love experimenting with custom scenarios, this is a major advantage.
Enemy AI – The Biggest Weakness
The enemy AI can feel inconsistent.
On lower difficulties, it behaves passively and sometimes strangely. Even on higher difficulties, it can feel somewhat predictable.
This is the game's main drawback.
However, several AI overhaul mods improve behavior significantly, making engagements more challenging and dynamic.
Out of the box, the AI is serviceable - but not exceptional.
Graphics & Realism
Visually, Men of War: Assault Squad 2 is dated compared to modern RTS titles.
However, what it lacks in graphics, it compensates for with:
Realistic damage modeling
Detailed physics
Lethal infantry combat
Authentic vehicle handling
The game prioritizes realism and tactical detail over cinematic presentation.
Who Should Play Men of War: Assault Squad 2?
Recommended For:
- Hardcore RTS fans
- Players who enjoy micromanagement
- Tactical realism enthusiasts
- Gamers who appreciate mod support
- Those who don’t mind a learning curve
Not Recommended For:
- Casual RTS players
- Gamers who prefer simplified mechanics
- Players who dislike managing individual units
Is Men of War: Assault Squad 2 Still Worth It in 2025?
Yes - if you enjoy tactical depth and control.
With over 120 hours invested, the game continues to offer replayability through campaign missions and extensive mod support.
It demands patience, but rewards strategic thinking and battlefield creativity.
If you want an RTS that gives you full control over every bullet, vehicle, and positioning decision, Men of War: Assault Squad 2 delivers a uniquely satisfying experience.
FAQ
Is Men of War: Assault Squad 2 beginner friendly?
No. The learning curve is steep, especially due to the detailed control systems and micromanagement.Does the game have good mod support?
Yes. The modding community is one of the strongest aspects of the game and significantly improves replayability.Is the AI good?
The AI is decent but inconsistent in vanilla gameplay. AI overhaul mods improve the experience considerably.Is it worth playing today?
For RTS fans who enjoy micromanagement and realism, absolutely.