Thunder Tier One is an exciting tactical feast for both solo players and squads alike. There is some wonkiness to its AI, but its tense shooting mechanics and focus on information and visibility make it hard to overlook for fans of hardcore military shooters and tactics game experts alike. It’s not an easy mission, but it’s one you should definitely take on.
The top-down tactical shooter Thunder Tier One offers a realistic and engaging singleplayer campaign, unfortunately ruined by AI partners who are too prone to ignore orders and cause havoc. The multiplayer is fun and shootouts are hectic, but there’s also a distinct lack of modes and the progression system isn’t too exciting. We don’t doubt Krafton will keep the game patched and updated though.
Thunder Tier One has one very steep requirement if you want to enjoy it — it’s almost impossible to play it with random strangers. Find a good group, and the game will flourish.
In addition to the few inaccuracies of the aim or the artificial intelligence of the allies making solo progression quite delicate, it is for the moment by its lack of content that Thunder Tier One sins. By relying on the community to enrich the game with new maps and missions, KRAFTON Inc risks seeing its game falling into oblivion, which would be regrettable given the pleasure that can be taken in completing missions in cooperation, which will require tactics, communication and planning to be carried out “properly”. A real potential that is not yet fully exploited and that fans of this singular genre might find a little too thin.
The developer behind PUBG tried its hand at a cross between a shooter and Commandos. The result is… weird. The single-player mode is undercooked and annoying, mainly (but not only) because of the terrible AI. In co-op, where you don’t have to babysit your dumb comrades in arms, you can experience Thunder Tier One’s much better side, as it becomes really enjoyable.
Ultimately, Krafton has provided a solid foundation with good sound, mechanics, and control. However, it is missing a few things in its mission design to create a truly valuable experience. Of course, this game could see post-release content bolster its base components. The inclusion of modding tools from day one and a message from the devs calling Thunder Tier One “a playground for modding” shows the intent to create a platform for custom content to thrive. It just needs to be made now.
Summary Thunder Tier One is a realistic top-down shooter where you join an elite special operations team tasked with stopping a dangerous terrorist organization wreaking havoc across the fictional Eastern European country of Salobia.