The 1980s inflected synthwave music on the menu screen was an auspicious start, this wonderfully atmospheric soundtrack permeates the game and is the perfect accompaniment to the beautifully realised 2D art.
Mastering the movement and combat controls is part of what makes Brigador so compelling. You will notice your competency improving through your baptism of fire. If you're in any way a seasoned PC gamer, this should not be an issue at all. Relish the challenge, too few games offer it in this way.
Even when using one of the more robust and powerful units, flanking enemies, creating chokepoints, using distractions to lure enemies into ambushes and understanding the strengths and weaknesses of your chosen hardware and weapons are all vital in order to achieve victory.
The destructible environment allows for a great degree of improvisation, forward thinking is important but all is not lost should you be caught on the backfoot; going toe to toe and winning is possible, providing you're good enough and employ some creativity.
Should the player be intrigued to know more about the factions vying for Solo Nobre, as well as the units they're likely to encounter and the locales in which they'll be fought, 'Intel' is available for the curious mercenary to purchase in the 'Acquisitions' section of the menu, paid for with the spoils of battle. Well written and a joy to read, these 'reports' are a clever way of unobtrusively imparting the story.
I've completed the initial campaign, however each mission can be replayed with a number of different units, each demanding a different play style to the other, with the chance to improve upon past performances and winning a more substantial bounty in the process. Then there's the 'Freelance' mode (which I haven't even touched yet) promising an expanded arsenal, pilots and missions for purchase. A generous offering, indeed.
Astonishingly well made and tremendous fun; Brigador is undoubtedly a future classic.
