Review: 63 days

Initial release date: 2024

Genres: Strategy video game, Indie game, Adventure game, Strategy

Platforms: PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Microsoft Windows, Xbox Series X and Series S

Developer: Destructive Creations

Publisher: Destructive Creations

Engine: Unreal Engine 4

63 Days takes you on a somber tour of war-torn Poland. History does not lie, and this heartbreaking title brings Poland’s resistance fighters to the forefront. It was a brilliant notion that should have captivated and enthralled. However, flaws with fundamental gameplay and too complex controls keep it from shining. Despite the faults, there is a lot of potential trying to break through.

Destructive Creations produced and distributed this stealth tactics game. Furthermore, it offers a single-player or cooperative experience. I did not test the later style, and I spent the entire time fighting the Nazis as a single resistance leader. As a result, my review will center on this gameplay. I’ll begin by mentioning that I enjoy the unique WWII perspective. People rarely focus on Poland’s war efforts, so I appreciated the different perspective. However, the difficulties will keep readers from losing themselves in the plot.

63 Days: A Brutal Tale.

Two brothers have had enough! Their country is under attack, and Hitler’s army outnumber them. However, none of this matters. They understand that brainpower always triumphs over brute strength. As a result, they will meticulously prepare each encounter. This thorough approach will provide them a slight advantage and tip the scales in their favour.

In principle, this is a fantastic idea, but it rarely works. The blend of stealth and run-and-gun action does not quite work. Furthermore, faulty AI and poor controls put you to the test of memory recall and unpleasant dexterity. This was really aggravating because your bullets are as powerful as a potato shooter, and distracting the enemy simply reveals your location. You may argue that there is a skills gap, and you may be correct. However, I’ve played a lot of tactical games, and 63 Days simply didn’t feel right.

A decent campaign.

The gameplay takes place throughout six campaigns. Each of these stages becomes more complex, and the maps are massive. Each one beautifully depicts Poland’s devastated cities. It’s difficult to accept devastated houses, dead bodies, and other unsettling evidence of war. However, it is this brutal backdrop that drives you on. Along with this, the intriguing cinematic and well-narrated plot was engrossing. It’s just a shame that the primary mechanics are so distracting.

Each objective requires the use of five characters. Each task often requires you to bring 2-3 heroes, each with their own set of skills and weaknesses. One is an expert in stealth combat, while another favors the use of daggers. Alternatively, perhaps healing is your go-to skill. In any case, understanding each talent is essential for success.

The goal of the game is to stay in the shadows. This is not always doable because the janky mechanics occasionally put a wrench in the works. If the crap hits the fan and you are discovered, you are free to unleash hell with your armory of weapons. Unfortunately, the enemy is much stronger and has more lethal weaponry, so an all-out gunfight is not recommended. Disappointingly, the only strategy that succeeded was to draw my adversaries into a vortex of destruction. Though this worked 9 times out of 10, it felt a little lame and did not fit the tactical theme.

63 Days looks amazing.

Despite the janky basic parts, 63 Days looks wonderful. The bird’s-eye view allows you to plan and, in theory, provides an unfair edge. In addition, the user interface is simple and straightforward. The world is dark and unsettling to the eye. The damaged buildings, dead bodies, and lack of color serve as a somber reminder of Poland’s involvement in World War II.

The audio also creates a creepy atmosphere. The somber music and brutal plot emphasize the hardship of the resistance. Explosions, gunshots, and shouting fill the air during each mission. There is a sense of fragility and risk at each stage, which was fantastic to experience.

Controls are challenging.

63 Days is designed for a mouse and keyboard. As a result, using a controller to play this makes things more complicated. Selecting several units is simple, but performing their special abilities takes a lot of effort. This was irritating, especially when you were attempting to perform a variety of tactical elements at once. However, after a few hours, you adjust to the difficult method and things become easier.

The three difficulty settings are the primary emphasis of replay value and duration. The simple option isn’t too difficult, and it was an excellent place to start. Unfortunately, the hard mode is nasty, and it will punish you. As a result, if you enjoy pushing yourself, you have the opportunity to put your tactical approach to the test.

63 days is acceptable, but it could be better.

63 Days was enjoyable but frustrating at the same time. I adored the level design and dismal atmosphere. Furthermore, the tale was amazing, and the narration was effective. However, the main features were subpar, which held it behind. If you have patience and enjoy tactical games, you will get a lot out of this. So, despite its flaws, I recommend purchasing it here! Can you stand up to Nazis? Master your talents, remain hidden in the shadows, and plan every action.

Review Overview

Gameplay: 79%

Controls: 77%

Aesthetics: 83%

Content: 80%

Accessibility: 76%

Value: 78%

Overall: 79%

AN INTENSE COUNTDOWN TO SURVIVAL!

Summary:

“63 Days” immerses players in a brutal survival experience, with each decision affecting the countdown to a critical deadline. The gameplay combines resource management, exploration, and narrative decisions, each of which requires players to adapt and persevere. While the controls are effective, certain mechanics may require some patience. Aesthetically, the game’s gloomy, post-apocalyptic images add to the tense atmosphere, engrossing players. “63 Days” is a captivating trip for fans of hard survival games, combining tactics with survival tales.