Auroch Digital Understood the Assignment
Auroch Digital has quickly proven they know how to breathe new life into the retro “boomer shooter” genre. After the success of Warhammer 40,000: Boltgun, expectations were high, and Starship Troopers: Ultimate Bug War shows the studio once again understands exactly what makes these games tick.
From the moment I loaded into the training level and saw the laser training battle, I knew Auroch got it. It immediately brought me back to childhood nostalgia and perfectly captured the campy, over the top energy that defines the Starship Troopers universe.
Propaganda, Humor, and Nostalgia
One of my favorite touches throughout the game is the propaganda videos scattered between missions. They lean heavily into the franchise’s satire, and they’re genuinely hilarious. The enlistment clip featuring the child recruit had me absolutely cackling.
Moments like these really show how much love the developers have for the source material.
Boomer Shooter Combat Done Right
Gameplay is where Ultimate Bug War shines. There’s a great variety of weapons, which include many from the mythos. But, the mini nuke launcher is the most eye popping one. The sheer joy of nuking some bugs from afar is sheer bliss. I had a smile from ear to ear.
You’re not always alone either. Being able to summon squad mates during intense encounters adds a strategic layer when things get overwhelming. And when that isn’t enough, hopping into a mech suit is an absolute blast. Few things feel better than stomping through hordes of bugs in a giant metal war machine.
Large Missions and Classic Secrets
Missions can run up to 45 minutes, often with multiple objectives that you’re free to tackle in your own order. It gives the game a bit more breathing room than your typical retro shooter while still maintaining that fast-paced energy.
In true boomer shooter fashion, there are also secrets hidden throughout levels, rewarding exploration. Squashing bugs across iconic locations from the franchise was a blast, especially the first major mission, the Battle of Klendathu. It instantly brought back memories of both the live-action film and the animated series Roughnecks. Visiting the iconic Zegema Beach stirred up some serious Halo Combat Evolved feelings. It was awesome.
A Few Bugs… Ironically
Unfortunately, I ran into multiple bugs in early missions, and not the kind you’re supposed to squash. Some were gameplay hindering and definitely broke the flow at times. It’s ironic for a game about exterminating bugs to have a few of its own.
General Rico Returns
Casper Van Dien returns as the legendary Johnny Rico, now General Rico. While it’s great to see him back in the role, the performance felt a little disappointing. Whether it was the writing or the delivery, the character came across somewhat stiff and lacking the charisma fans might expect.
Final Verdict
Despite a few technical hiccups and a very underwhelming performance from Rico, Starship Troopers: Ultimate Bug War is still a fun retro shooter packed with nostalgia, humor, and satisfying bug-squashing chaos.
Auroch Digital continues to prove they understand the retro FPS formula, even if this one left me wishing there was just a little more to it.
8/10
