Retro Replay Review

Gameplay

The Pure Wargame delivers a deep, turn-based tactical experience that will appeal to hardcore strategy enthusiasts. Players command airborne forces across eight historically inspired operations, from the scattered drops over Crete to the ambitious but ill-fated assault on the bridges at Arnhem. Each scenario challenges you to deploy troops, secure key objectives, and adapt to the ebb and flow of battle, with every hex on the map representing a potential breakthrough or deadly ambush.

Mechanically, the game thrives on its simplicity of design combined with a surprising depth of decision-making. Supply lines, terrain effects, unit morale, and the ever-present fog of war force you to think several moves ahead. The turn structure—comprising movement, combat resolution, and reinforcements—feels satisfying and measured, and even veteran wargamers will discover subtle tactical tricks to outflank or outgun the opposition.

Replayability is one of The Pure Wargame’s standout features. With adjustable difficulty settings and the ability to change order of battle compositions, each operation can unfold differently on subsequent playthroughs. Multiplayer support via hotseat or play-by-email (PBEM) further extends the life of the title, as human opponents often do what AI foes cannot: surprise and outmaneuver you in unpredictable ways.

Graphics

Visually, The Pure Wargame opts for a crisp, utilitarian style that prioritizes clarity over eye candy. Maps are rendered in clean top-down views, with hex-based grids delineating movement zones. Each unit is represented by a distinctive counter icon, clearly labeled and color-coded for easy identification—even on lower-resolution displays.

Animations are minimal but purposeful. When a soldier advances, you’ll see small textured movements; when artillery or air support is called in, brief effects underscore the impact. While there are no flashy particle systems or 3D models, the aesthetic reinforces the title’s commitment to tactical authenticity rather than visual spectacle.

Although The Pure Wargame’s graphics may feel dated by modern standards, they remain functional and effective. The UI design focuses on quick information parsing: tooltips display unit stats, sidebars track objectives, and context menus let you issue orders without wading through nested screens. For those who value substance over style, the game’s visual presentation hits the mark.

Story

Rather than threading a continuous narrative, The Pure Wargame offers eight standalone scenarios drawn from real airborne operations. Each mission begins with a concise historical briefing that sets the scene: troop strengths, weather conditions, strategic goals, and notable personalities. These vignettes ground the action in authentic events, helping players understand the stakes before the first turn begins.

While there are no fully voiced cutscenes or character-driven subplots, the historical context is woven effectively into the mission design. You’re not simply playing abstract territory contests; you’re reenacting the heroism and heartbreak of paratroopers dropped behind enemy lines. As you progress, optional archive photographs and period radio transmissions enhance the immersion for history buffs.

For those seeking a more personal storyline, the game’s episodic structure may feel sparse. However, the raw authenticity of each airborne operation—with its unique objectives, terrain challenges, and logistical constraints—serves as its own compelling narrative. The tension of risking your divisions in the drop zones is enough to keep you invested in every scenario.

Overall Experience

The Pure Wargame offers a focused, no-frills approach to turn-based warfare that will satisfy fans of tactical authenticity. Its eight airborne scenarios provide a solid breadth of content, each demanding thoughtful planning and quick adaptation to shifting battle conditions. While newcomers to the genre may face a steep learning curve, the game’s clear visuals and coherent UI help flatten that barrier.

In terms of value, The Pure Wargame punches above its weight. You’re getting eight well-crafted historical engagements, robust AI and multiplayer options, and a suite of difficulty adjustments to keep veteran players challenged. The absence of bells and whistles is offset by the meticulous attention to operational detail—supply lines, unit cohesion, and terrain all matter in ways that aficionados of military history will appreciate.

Ultimately, The Pure Wargame is a niche gem. It forgoes cinematic storytelling and glossy graphics in favor of laser-focused tactical gameplay. If you crave a wargame that demands respect for historical accuracy and strategic planning, this title is well worth your time. Casual gamers or those expecting modern production values may want to look elsewhere, but for the committed wargamer, The Pure Wargame offers a deeply rewarding experience.

Retro Replay Score

6.4/10