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Commandos: Origins

Name: Comprehensive Review and Analysis of Commandos: Origins
Item: Commandos: Origins
Author: MonsterCritic Editorial Team

2025

GenresTop-Down Perspective, Strategy, Single Player, Multiplayer

AvailableApr 9, 2025

PlatformXbox Series X, Xbox One, PlayStation 5, PC, PlayStation 4

DeveloperClaymore Game Studios

Overview

In 2019, Kalypso Media Group announced that a new 'Commandos' title was in development and last year it revealed that newly formed Claymore Game Studios was working on a next-generation installment in the Commandos strategy series. Commandos: Origins tells the story of a newly founded British commando unit that grows into a brotherhood during its operations against strategic goals of the German Wehrmacht. The player will control different characters with different abilities from an isometric perspective of the playing field and use them strategically in such a way that the given mission goal is achieved. So you will work your way through the various missions based on historical locations and missions to the respective goal.

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Game analysis

Monster Scorecard

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Story and Narrative

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TL;DR

Commandos: Origins taps into nostalgia with its WWII setting and iconic characters, offering strategic gameplay that fans appreciate. However, critics slam its shallow narrative, citing weak character development and disjointed missions that feel more like a series of tasks than a cohesive story. While the game has strong gameplay elements, it ultimately falls flat in delivering a compelling and engaging narrative.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

31%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

55%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

14%

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the story and narrative.

The reviews of Commandos: Origins highlight several positive aspects of the game's story, particularly its nostalgic appeal and adherence to the franchise's roots. Critics like Generación Xbox and GameStar emphasize that the game successfully narrates the origins of the iconic Commandos team during World War II, focusing on key characters like Jack O'Hara and the Green Beret. The narrative serves as a prequel, introducing players to the early missions of this elite force, which is appreciated by fans of the original series, as noted by Gamepressure and Vandal. The setting during the tumultuous times of WWII adds a historical context that many reviewers find compelling, and the focus on strategic gameplay resonates well with those familiar with the franchise. However, the reviews are overwhelmingly critical of the story's depth and coherence. Eurogamer Germany and CD-Action point out that the narrative is superficial, lacking in character development and meaningful interactions. Many critics, including Game8 and Gameliner, argue that the missions feel disconnected, relying heavily on loading screens rather than cohesive storytelling or engaging cutscenes. The overall sentiment is that while the game sets up an interesting premise, it fails to deliver a compelling narrative, with IGN Deutschland noting the absence of a continuous storyline and GamingBolt highlighting the skeletal nature of the plot. The overall consensus among critics is that Commandos: Origins presents an intriguing backdrop for gameplay but falls short in narrative depth and character engagement. While some reviewers appreciate the nostalgic elements and the introduction of unique characters, the majority agree that the story lacks a strong, cohesive thread, making it feel more like a series of missions than a unified campaign. Critics like Shacknews and Gamesurf reiterate that the gameplay takes precedence over the narrative, resulting in a title that may satisfy fans of tactical gameplay but leaves much to be desired in terms of storytelling.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

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TL;DR

Commandos: Origins garners praise for its strategic gameplay and tactical depth, demanding careful use of unique commando skills across 14 levels. Critics highlight its stealth emphasis and rewarding planning mechanics, but significant drawbacks, such as poor gamepad controls, technical bugs, and repetitive mission design, hinder the experience. While it retains core franchise elements, the game's lack of innovation and execution issues lead to a mixed reception, disappointing some long-time fans.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

64%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

30%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the gameplay mechanics.

The gameplay of Commandos: Origins has received a generally positive reception from critics, highlighting its emphasis on stealth, tactical planning, and character utilization. Reviewers such as Eurogamer Germany and Generación Xbox commend the game for its strategic depth, noting that players must carefully observe and employ the unique skills of different commandos to navigate challenging missions. TheXboxHub echoes this sentiment, emphasizing the need for patience and tactical planning. Critics like Cultura Geek and Game8 appreciate the game's ability to encourage experimentation and strategic management across its 14 levels, while IGN and Shacknews praise the rewarding Command Mode that enhances the planning aspect of gameplay. However, several reviewers have pointed out significant drawbacks that detract from the overall experience. TheSixthAxis and GameMAG criticize the game for poor gamepad controls and linearity, which can hinder the gameplay experience. Additionally, multiple critics, including CD-Action and Ragequit.gr, mention technical issues such as bugs and AI problems that disrupt immersion and balance, resulting in gameplay that can feel easier than expected. Critics like Games.cz and Gamersky also note a lack of innovation in mission design, describing the gameplay as straightforward and repetitive, which may not meet the expectations of long-time fans of the series. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Commandos: Origins successfully retains the core elements of the franchise, focusing on stealth and strategy while introducing some new mechanics. However, the game is marred by technical issues and a perceived lack of depth in mission design, leading to a mixed reception. While many reviewers, including PCGamesN and Vandal, appreciate the game's tactical planning and flexibility in approach, the frustrations stemming from control issues and bugs suggest that the game may not fully satisfy all players. The balance between strategic gameplay and technical execution appears to be a pivotal point of contention among critics, influencing their overall impressions of the title.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

Commandos: Origins offers striking modern visuals that honor the original series, praised for immersive environments and detail. However, critics cite technical issues like glitches, average animations, and subpar optimization that hinder the experience. While some laud its artistic direction, others feel the graphics lack the charm of earlier entries, resulting in a mixed reception overall.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

38%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

55%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the graphics and visual design.

The graphics and visual design of Commandos: Origins have garnered a mix of praise and criticism from various reviewers. Many critics, such as Generación Xbox and TheXboxHub, commend the game for its modern visuals that pay homage to the original series, highlighting the high detail and immersive environments that effectively reflect the harshness of war. BaziCenter also emphasizes the artistic quality of the graphics, which enhance the gameplay experience and prevent monotony. The use of Unreal Engine 5 has been noted by several reviewers, including Oyungezer and Vandal, who appreciate the vibrant and expansive maps that contribute to the overall visual appeal. Critics like Shacknews and SpazioGames further underscore the diversity and complexity of the environments, which enhance the tactical experience and immersion. Conversely, the game is not without its shortcomings. Eurogamer Germany and GamingBolt point out issues with animations and performance, suggesting that while the graphics are generally acceptable, they are marred by technical glitches and average graphical fidelity compared to peers. CD-Action criticizes the visuals for being subpar compared to previous entries in the series, lacking the charm of the original 2D aesthetics. Game8 and Gamepressure echo similar sentiments, describing the visuals as functional but dated, with some noting that the overall presentation feels practical rather than visually stunning. Critics like GameMAG and Gameliner mention poor optimization and a lack of interactivity in the environments, which detracts from the overall experience. Overall, the consensus among critics regarding the graphics and visual design of Commandos: Origins is mixed. While there is appreciation for the substantial upgrades and the artistic direction that pays homage to the franchise's roots, many reviewers highlight significant technical issues that prevent the visuals from reaching their full potential. Critics like IGN and Shacknews recognize the game's impressive environments and attention to detail, yet they also note the presence of minor glitches and performance hiccups. Ultimately, while the game showcases a commendable effort in modernizing its graphics, the execution appears to fall short in certain areas, leading to a divided reception among critics.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

Commandos: Origins features commendable voice acting and an atmospheric soundtrack, praised by several critics for enhancing the game's narrative. However, it suffers from significant sound design inconsistencies and unmemorable music, with many reviewers noting that the audio falls short of expectations, impacting overall immersion. While some elements shine, the mixed reception highlights a lack of cohesion in the audio experience.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

27%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

40%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

33%

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the music and sound design.

The sound design and music of Commandos: Origins have garnered a mix of opinions from various critics, with some positive highlights. Notably, the voice acting has received praise for its quality, with Generación Xbox commending the excellent performances that enhance the game's narrative. Additionally, GameWatcher noted that the original soundtrack by Dynamedion effectively complements the game's atmosphere, while Hobby Consolas highlighted the effective military-themed music and Spanish voice acting, capturing the essence of the original game. Critics like Shacknews also appreciated the soundtrack for enhancing the overall experience without being overpowering, which is important for a game that relies heavily on stealth and strategy. On the flip side, there are significant criticisms regarding the sound design and music, with many reviewers pointing out inconsistencies and shortcomings. Eurogamer Germany mentioned that while the sound design has inconsistencies, it does not significantly detract from the experience. However, critics such as BaziCenter and CD-Action criticized the music for not matching the game's excitement and being out of sync with the game's atmosphere. Game8 found the voice acting to be awkward, while Games.cz described the sound design as disappointing with unmemorable music and audio issues. GameStar highlighted severe sound issues, including complete audio loss during quickloads, which detracts from the overall experience. Overall, the consensus among critics indicates a divided reception regarding the sound design and music of Commandos: Origins. While some aspects, such as voice acting and certain musical elements, received praise, the overwhelming sentiment points to a lack of cohesion and memorable quality in the audio experience. Critics like GamingBolt and Gamesurf noted that while sound effects contribute positively to the atmosphere, the music fails to leave a lasting impression. This mixed feedback suggests that while there are commendable elements, the sound design and music ultimately fall short of expectations, impacting the game's immersive qualities.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Voice Acting

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TL;DR

Commandos: Origins' voice acting is a mixed bag. Critics praise the immersive Spanish performances, with Generación Xbox and Vandal highlighting their nostalgic appeal. However, others like GamingBolt and Game8 find the overall quality lacking, describing the acting as adequate but forgettable or awkward. The game's voice work charms some players while disappointing others, revealing a divide in audience satisfaction.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VOICE ACTING

Acting Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

14%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

86%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the voice acting.

The voice acting in Commandos: Origins has garnered a mix of positive feedback from several critics, highlighting its contribution to the game's overall experience. Generación Xbox praised the well-executed Spanish voice acting, emphasizing that it enhances the immersion for players who prefer that language. Similarly, Vandal noted the positive impact of the Spanish voice acting, despite mentioning some audio issues. Hobby Consolas also contributed to the positive sentiment by appreciating how new actors successfully imitated original performances, which adds a nostalgic touch to the game. TheSixthAxis pointed out the charm brought by the Sapper's clipped English accent, suggesting that certain performances can stand out and add personality to the characters. However, not all reviews were as favorable. GamingBolt described the voice acting for the six commandos as adequate but lacking in distinction or memorability. Game8 took a more critical stance, labeling the voice acting as awkward and of low quality, which detracts from the immersive experience that players expect. Gamesurf echoed this sentiment by stating that while the voice acting is adequate, it ultimately lacks personality, leading to a flat overall experience. This range of criticisms indicates that while some performances resonate well, others fail to leave a lasting impression. Overall, the consensus among critics reveals a divided opinion on the voice acting in Commandos: Origins. While some reviewers like Generación Xbox and Vandal highlight the positive aspects of the Spanish voice acting, others such as GamingBolt and Game8 express disappointment in the overall quality and personality of the performances. The mixed reviews suggest that the voice acting may cater well to certain audiences, particularly those who appreciate the nostalgic elements, while leaving others wanting more in terms of character depth and engagement. This dichotomy points to a game that, while having its strengths, may not fully satisfy all players when it comes to voice performances.

TL;DR

voice acting

Technical Performance

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TL;DR

Commandos: Origins performs decently on Xbox Series X and PS5, with minor glitches and smooth gameplay, but suffers from serious technical issues, including crashes and bugs on PC, making it frustratingly unplayable at times. Console versions are the safer bet, while the PC experience needs significant improvement.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

57%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

43%

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the technical performance.

Analysis of Technical Performance in Commandos: Origins When examining the technical performance of Commandos: Origins across different gaming platforms, the Xbox Series X and PlayStation 5 showcase some positive aspects. Reviewers on the Xbox Series X, such as Eurogamer Germany, noted that the game runs well with only minor glitches, indicating a relatively stable experience compared to other platforms. BaziCenter highlighted that the PS5 version also delivers smooth gameplay, which is a significant positive in the overall gaming experience. Although some control issues were mentioned, the PS5's performance was generally seen as favorable, suggesting that players can enjoy the game without major interruptions. However, the negatives for each platform present a more concerning picture. On the Xbox Series X, critics like Generación Xbox and TheXboxHub pointed out notable technical issues, including crashes and performance inconsistencies that mar the gameplay experience. The situation is more dire on PC, where the overwhelming majority of reviewers, including CD-Action and GameMAG, reported a plethora of technical problems such as game-breaking bugs, poor optimization, and AI issues that severely hinder gameplay. Critics like Ragequit.gr and Gamersky emphasized that these issues can lead to frustrating experiences, with some bugs rendering the game unplayable at times. Overall, the consensus among critics indicates that while there are some redeeming qualities in the technical performance of Commandos: Origins, particularly on consoles, the PC version is plagued with significant issues that detract from the experience. Many reviewers, including IGN and PC Games, noted that despite some patches improving stability, the game still suffers from persistent bugs and performance problems across all platforms. The Xbox Series X and PS5 versions, while not without their faults, are regarded as the better options for players seeking a more stable experience, whereas the PC version requires further optimization and quality assurance to meet player expectations.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

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TL;DR

Commandos: Origins garners mixed reviews, praised for its cooperative multiplayer and strategic depth that encourages experimentation and replayability. Critics appreciate its diverse missions but highlight drawbacks like linearity, repetitive gameplay, and technical issues that dampen the experience. While it appeals to genre veterans, the lack of incentives for varied play may leave some players unmotivated to return. Overall, the game presents a blend of potential and limitations, reflecting a nuanced reception in the gaming community.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

21%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

64%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

14%

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the replay value.

The opinions regarding the replay value of Commandos: Origins reflect a generally positive sentiment among many critics. Reviewers such as Eurogamer Germany and TheXboxHub highlight the game's encouragement of experimentation and its cooperative multiplayer mode, which significantly enhance replayability. Critics like Generación Xbox and IGN emphasize the multiple missions and secondary objectives, which provide players with ample opportunities to refine their skills and explore different strategies. Additionally, the game’s tactical depth, as noted by GamingBolt and Shacknews, appeals to both veterans of the genre and newcomers, suggesting that it offers a robust experience that invites players to return. However, there are notable criticisms that temper this enthusiasm. Several reviewers, including Gamepressure and Multiplayer.it, point out the game's linearity and lack of incentives for alternative solutions, which can diminish the overall replay value. Critics like Gameliner and Oyungezer express concerns over the repetitive nature of missions and the absence of a cohesive narrative, which may lead to a lack of motivation for players to replay levels. Furthermore, while some reviews mention the potential for replayability through trial-and-error gameplay, others, such as those from Slant Magazine and CD-Action, warn that technical issues and tedious progression could deter players from revisiting the game. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Commandos: Origins offers a blend of replayability potential and limitations. While many reviewers appreciate the game's strategic depth and variety of approaches—citing the opinions of IGN and Cultura Geek—there remains a significant divide regarding its execution. The game seems to cater well to fans of the genre, as noted by Vandal, yet it may not fully satisfy those seeking a more engaging and varied experience. The mixed feedback suggests that while there are enjoyable aspects that encourage replay, the game is not without its flaws, indicating a nuanced reception among the gaming community.

TL;DR

replay value

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

36%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

60%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing all available reviews that scored and critiqued the game.

The overall sentiment regarding Commandos: Origins is largely positive, with many critics acknowledging its successful return to the series' roots and the engaging gameplay it offers. Reviewers such as Eurogamer Germany and TheXboxHub highlight the game as a solid and enjoyable experience that effectively captures the essence of the original Commandos games. Critics like Shacknews and IGN praise it as a love letter to the franchise, noting its challenging and strategic gameplay, which appeals to both veterans and newcomers alike. The game is recognized for its intricate level design and tactical gameplay, with many reviewers recommending it to fans of real-time tactics and stealth genres. However, the game is not without its flaws, as numerous critics point out significant technical issues that detract from the overall experience. Reviewers such as TheSixthAxis and GameMAG express concerns over frustrating controls and bugs that hinder gameplay, while others like CD-Action and Gameliner describe it as a missed opportunity due to a lack of polish and narrative cohesion. Critics like Gamepressure and Ragequit.gr emphasize that while the game has potential, it suffers from outdated design elements and technical shortcomings that may alienate new players. The consensus is clear: while the core gameplay is enjoyable, the execution has room for improvement. The overall consensus among critics is that Commandos: Origins is a commendable effort that successfully revives the beloved franchise but is marred by technical challenges and a lack of innovation. Critics like Generación Xbox and PC Games acknowledge that the game deserves a chance, especially with updates addressing some initial issues. However, others, such as Game8 and Gamersky, suggest that potential players may want to wait for a sale or further fixes before diving in. Ultimately, while the game is seen as a solid entry for fans, the prevailing sentiment indicates that it could benefit from more refinement to fully meet the expectations of both new and returning players.

TL;DR

Commandos: Origins is a strong return to form, celebrated for its engaging gameplay and strategic depth, earning praise from critics as a love letter to the series. However, it suffers from significant technical issues, frustrating controls, and outdated design elements that detract from the experience. While it has potential, many recommend waiting for updates or sales before diving in, as the game needs polish to satisfy both veterans and newcomers.

MONSTER

Reviews

59 reviews found

100

SECTOR.sk

Apr 9, 2025