War Hospital Review: A Grim Journey into the Heart of WWI Medicine

by Luis January 18, 2024

“War Hospital,” a video game developed by Brave Lamb Studio and published by Nacon, offers a profound and harrowing dive into the grim realities of war, uniquely framed within the context of a medical strategy game set during World War I. Unlike many war-themed games that focus on the front lines, “War Hospital” places players in the role of managing a field hospital, challenging them to make life-or-death decisions under extreme conditions.

One of the game’s most distinctive aspects is its focus on resource management and strategic planning. Players must effectively allocate their limited resources, ranging from medical supplies to manpower, all while dealing with the relentless pressures of war. The game intricately simulates the challenges faced by medical staff during wartime, including the moral dilemmas inherent in deciding which soldiers receive treatment and which are, heartbreakingly, left to their fate. This game loop is particularly impactful, forcing players to confront the stark realities of war and the often impossible decisions that must be made in such dire circumstances.

Another notable feature of “War Hospital” is its emphasis on the human element. Each soldier has a personal backstory, adding emotional depth and complexity to the gameplay. This personalization makes the management decisions all the more poignant and difficult, as players are not merely allocating resources but are also intimately involved in the fates of individual lives.

Despite its innovative approach and compelling subject matter, “War Hospital” does have its shortcomings. The game’s rigid building system, where structures are pre-set rather than customizable, limits strategic variety and player agency. Additionally, the micromanagement aspect, while realistic, can become tedious, detracting from the game’s immersion. The pacing is a bit slow, and, at times, the actions and decisions can feel repetitive, which impacts the experience.

“War Hospital” is a game that bravely tackles a challenging theme with depth and sensitivity. While it excels in creating a thought-provoking and emotionally charged experience, it is somewhat hindered by its gameplay mechanics and technical issues. Still worth a look, especially for fans of “Frostpunk” or other more intense and somber strategy games.

RATING: 3.0 out of 5.0

War Hospital is now available for PC, PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series S/X.