Delta Force: Hawk Ops Revealed - In-depth Look at Tactical Gameplay, Modes, and Robust Customization

At the Summer Game Fest, we had the opportunity to delve into the intricacies of the upcoming tactical first-person shooter, Delta Force: Hawk Ops. The game is set to offer a rich experience through its premium 'Black Hawk Down' campaign mode and two free-to-play multiplayer modes: the expansive PvP Havoc Warfare and the intense extraction shooter Hazard Operations. Following a hands-on preview, we sat down with the lead developer, Leo Yao, to discuss the game's features, its development phases, and its highly anticipated release.

Development and Timeline

The game is set to enter early access in October, with a projected full release in the first quarter of 2025. It will be available across a broad range of platforms, including PC, consoles, and mobile devices. The Alpha test for PC is scheduled for next month, providing early adopters with a sneak peek into the intricate mechanics and expansive gameplay.

Choosing Delta Force

When asked why the team decided to create a new title under the Delta Force franchise, Yao revealed that Delta Force has always been immensely popular in China, especially among college students who would often play it in net cafes. The team was excited to acquire the IP and believed it offered strong potential for an engaging tactical shooter.

Early Access and Feedback

Early access will be launched on Steam, and the team is eager to receive feedback and suggestions to continually polish the game.

Gameplay and Mechanics

Delta Force: Hawk Ops promises a deep and tactical gameplay experience, differentiating itself from more arcade-style shooters.

Strategic Operations

The game features various Operators with unique skills, encouraging players to strategize and collaborate with their teammates rather than just rushing in and shooting. Yao highlighted the importance of observation and teamwork in Delta Force: Hawk Ops, contrasting it with faster-paced shooters like Call of Duty.

Modes of Communication

The game supports extensive communication options, including voice and text chat, and features for reviving teammates or moving them to safer positions. In the extraction mode, players can locate and ping items or bosses, ensuring that the team works towards common objectives.

Weapon and Gear Customization

Customization plays a significant role in the game. While high-value gear cannot be shared to prevent imbalance, players can modify their weapons using in-game currency. Accessories can be found during matches in the extraction mode, adding another layer of strategy to gameplay.

Game Modes and Progression

Delta Force: Hawk Ops offers two distinct multiplayer modes, each with its own progression system and unique approach to gameplay.

Havoc Warfare

Havoc Warfare is a large-scale PvP mode featuring a progression system wherein players unlock various weapons and attachments as they level up. Unlike some other popular FPS games, there are no limits on the number of attachments one can equip.

Hazard Operations

In Hazard Operations, an extraction shooter mode, players can loot attachments and directly apply them to their weapons. This mode emphasizes team-based objectives, making it crucial for players to work together to achieve success.

Operators and Cosmetics

Operators can be unlocked through in-game events or progression systems, and they are not tied to premium purchases. Only cosmetics require payment, and a battle pass system offers two tiers: a free tier and a premium tier, the latter providing higher-level cosmetics.

Technical Aspects

The development of the game utilizes both Unreal Engine 4 and Unreal Engine 5, with the former used for its cross-platform multiplayer modes and the latter for the 'Black Hawk Down' campaign mode to leverage advanced features like Lumen and Nanite.

Platform Compatibility and Cross-Progression

The game will launch simultaneously on PC, consoles, and mobile devices. While cross-play between mobile and other platforms is not encouraged, cross-progression will occur through a Level Infinite account. The premium battle pass will also be shared across platforms.

Console and Performance

While the game aims to support current-generation consoles like PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X, the development team is also exploring the possibility of supporting previous-generation consoles. Additionally, the game will offer 4K resolution and at least 60 frames per second on consoles, with support for higher frame rates on capable hardware.

Campaign Mode

The 'Black Hawk Down' campaign mode will closely follow the events of the iconic film. The game uses some cutscenes and soundtracks from the film to enhance the immersive experience. While initially planned as a single-player campaign, the team is now exploring the possibility of a cooperative mode, potentially supporting up to three players.

Content and Chapters

The campaign will differ from the multiplayer modes, with no shared Operators between them. It aims to provide a challenging and immersive experience, amplifying the game's overall depth and replayability.

Conclusion

Delta Force: Hawk Ops stands to be an exciting addition to the tactical shooter genre. With a well-rounded campaign mode, two distinct multiplayer experiences, comprehensive customization options, and robust communication features, the game promises a dynamic and cooperative gaming experience. As it edges closer to early access and eventual full release, Delta Force: Hawk Ops is set to offer something for both seasoned FPS enthusiasts and newcomers alike.