Gallipoli is the newest installment of the WW1 Game Series from BlackMill Games. This Dutch studio has been developing WW1 simulation shooters since the early 2010s, focusing on delivering authentic, well-researched shooter experiences for history buffs and realism shooter fans. With their newest game, BlackMill hopes to bring a fun experience to fans of the series by taking them to the Ottoman fronts of Gallipoli.
Gallipoli at a Glance
Gallipoli is an immersive simulation FPS where teams fight to control objectives while navigating mechanics that make combat feel real and true to the era. Accurate weaponry, equipment, and vehicles encourage players to engage with the trench-based warfare that defined WW1 combat, as they attempt to avoid a swift death at the hands of the enemy team. This entry in the series focuses specifically on simulating battles at Gallipoli, featuring locations and engagements that were historically fought there.
Expedition Mode
Gallipoli's main game mode is Expedition, which splits teams into the Attackers , the English and their allies , and the Defenders, the Ottomans. The map is divided into multiple sectors, each containing an HQ objective and a support objective for the Defenders. The Attackers' goal is to capture all HQ objectives on the map. Whenever one is captured, the next sector opens up, and claiming all sectors ends the game. Attackers can also attempt to take the support objective, which provides tools that make capturing the HQ easier.
The Defenders' goal is straightforward: hold their objectives while eliminating as many Attackers as possible. Defenders win by depleting all of the Attackers' momentum, a value always visible at the top of the screen. Each Attacker death reduces momentum by one, and reaching zero means defeat. Attackers can prevent this by contesting objectives and will regain momentum by successfully capturing them.
Overall, Expedition strongly supports the game's goal of realistic trench warfare. It is back-and-forth by design and does a good job of expressing the limited resources of Attackers against well-equipped Defenders. Trenches, mortars, and machine guns all help dictate the course of battle, and teams with a stronger grasp of the historical context will find themselves at a distinct advantage.
Customization
The level up track for the Rifleman class.
Gallipoli offers extensive options for customizing the player experience while remaining historically accurate. Players can choose between multiple classes, each supporting the team in different ways:
- Rifleman , an offensive frontline class
- Engineer , sets up weaponry and fortifications
- Spotter , calls out enemy positions
- Officer , coordinates troop movements
Each class comes with a range of upgradable equipment, giving players the freedom to approach combat in ways that suit their playstyle.
Character appearance is also customizable for both factions. Players fighting on the side of the English can choose between English, Australian, or Indian soldiers, with options for outfits, headwear, and even mustaches. On the Ottoman side, customization is equally broad. New cosmetic options unlock as players level up.
Beyond character levels, each class and piece of equipment has its own level track that enables upgrades over time. This system rewards players for sticking with what they enjoy, keeping the game fresh while expanding the options available in combat. It gives a genuine reason to invest in preferred loadouts, as they will continue to improve with use.
Overall Impressions
Gallipoli knows its audience well and does a strong job of building a game they will enjoy. It has a high skill floor thanks to its realistic, era-accurate combat, but offers a high skill ceiling for those who understand and take advantage of its systems. It also rewards good teamwork and communication, providing a social dimension that fans of the genre tend to appreciate.
Both the gameplay and customization are notably deep. There is a great deal within the Expedition maps that players will not encounter until several sessions in, giving room for extended exploration. The breadth of weapon and character options also gives those seeking a more complex experience plenty to dig into. Despite the many choices available, the game maintains a consistent feel thanks to its commitment to realism.
WW1 Gallipoli is available now on Steam, Xbox, PlayStation, and Epic Games.
