Few franchises in gaming history are as iconic as Wolfenstein. From its early days as the grandfather of first-person shooters, the series has always thrived on fast-paced action, larger-than-life villains, and a heavy dose of pulpy war fantasy. With Wolfenstein: The New Order (2014), developer MachineGames took that legacy and pushed it into bold new territory. It’s not just a shooter—it’s a narrative-driven experience that fuses explosive gunplay with surprisingly emotional storytelling.
Playability
At its core, The New Order is a first-person shooter, but it feels far more versatile than the average corridor blaster. Players can choose to go in guns blazing with dual-wielded weapons or sneak through environments with stealth takedowns and silenced pistols. The gunplay is weighty, satisfying, and brutal—every firefight feels impactful, with enemies reacting viscerally to well-placed shots. The difficulty curve is fair, leaning toward the challenging side, which keeps combat tense without feeling unfair.
Graphics & Atmosphere
The game’s visual design is striking, blending retro-futuristic technology with Nazi-dominated architecture. Alternate-history Europe is painted in bleak tones, but it’s peppered with imaginative set pieces: massive robotic war machines, underground resistance bases, and surreal dream-like moments that add variety to the otherwise oppressive world. While the graphics show their age compared to modern shooters, the atmosphere more than makes up for it. MachineGames nails the “dieselpunk” aesthetic, making the world feel grim yet fascinating.
Music & Sound
The audio design is one of the game’s strongest features. The soundtrack blends industrial rock, ambient tones, and heart-pounding beats that rise and fall with the intensity of battle. Weapons sound heavy and destructive, while enemy barks, explosions, and environmental effects give each firefight a cinematic flair. The voice acting is equally excellent, with strong performances that bring both villains and allies to life—especially B.J. Blazkowicz, whose gravelly narration adds unexpected depth to the character.
Story & Narrative
This is where The New Order shines brightest. Unlike previous Wolfenstein titles that leaned heavily into campy pulp action, MachineGames crafted a surprisingly human story. B.J. Blazkowicz is no longer just a one-dimensional war hero—he’s a man haunted by loss, trauma, and the brutality of endless conflict. The alternate-history setting, where the Nazis have won World War II, allows for bold storytelling choices that range from heartbreaking to outrageous. Moments of intimacy and vulnerability contrast brilliantly with the over-the-top villains and sci-fi weapons, creating a story that’s both emotional and wildly entertaining.
User Experience
Playing Wolfenstein: The New Order is a rollercoaster. It’s accessible enough for FPS veterans to feel right at home, yet offers options for different playstyles, from stealth to full chaos. The pacing is excellent—intense firefights are broken up by character-driven scenes, exploration, and memorable set pieces. The game also rewards replayability, as key narrative choices create alternate story paths, encouraging players to experience different outcomes.
Final Thoughts – Pros & Cons
Pros:
- Tight, satisfying gunplay with multiple playstyles
- A gripping, emotional story with memorable characters
- Strong voice acting and immersive sound design
- Unique alternate-history setting with a distinct aesthetic
- Balanced pacing between action and narrative
Cons:
- Visuals show some age by modern standards
- Linear level design may feel restrictive to some players
- Difficulty spikes can frustrate on higher settings
Final Thoughts ★★★★☆
Wolfenstein: The New Order is more than just a return to form for the franchise—it’s a reimagining that respects its roots while delivering a cinematic, story-driven experience. If you’re looking for a shooter with heart, grit, and style, this is one of the best examples of the genre.
by Lokhi D | 26 September 2025
