Wardogs Aims to Balance Hardcore FPS Gameplay with Respect for Player Time

Bulkhead’s upcoming hardcore FPS Wardogs is looking to carve out a unique space in the genre by blending high-stakes, 100-player tactical combat with a progression system that rewards long-term persistence. While the game features a complex metagame, CEO Joe Brammer is focusing on a design philosophy that respects players' time rather than punishing them with frequent, total account wipes.

Permanent Progression vs. Seasonal Resets

Drawing from his own experiences with competitive shooters like Valorant, Brammer noted that he wanted Wardogs to avoid the total loss of progression found in some other hardcore titles. While the game does feature seasonal cycles, the reset is focused on currency rather than character growth.

"You can't not progress your account," Brammer explained. In Wardogs, cash serves as the primary progression mechanic. At the end of each season, a player's bank balance is reset, and their remaining cash is converted into gold bars. These bars allow players to unlock exclusive cosmetic skins, ensuring that high-tier visuals remain tied to skill and time investment rather than real-world transactions.

The 'War Dog to War Lord' Journey

Character proficiency is handled through an XP system that echoes RuneScape, where performing specific actions makes you better at your chosen role. Whether you are playing as a medic, a sniper, or a pilot, your expertise grows over time. Brammer noted that a veteran player who has spent three years as a sniper will have minor advantages, such as holding their breath longer or achieving accuracy more quickly.

"The changes are small, we're talking minor percentages," Brammer said. He emphasized that these veteran perks are designed to recognize long-term play without making it impossible for a new player to overcome an experienced opponent. The studio calls this progression path the 'war dog to war lord' journey.

Learning from Battalion 1944

The design approach for Wardogs is heavily influenced by the team's history with Battalion 1944. After that title grew unexpectedly popular, the team struggled to manage the community's demands while operating on a limited budget. This experience taught the developers the importance of player-focused design.

"We realised players were giving us their money and time, and we've got to respect that," Brammer said. This realization is a cornerstone of Wardogs, which also includes a deep metagame that allows dedicated players to function as arms dealers and day traders within the game's economy.

Wardogs is currently in a pre-alpha testing phase and is scheduled to enter early access later in 2026.