Za rodinu!: Vsya seriya – ‘V tylu vraga 2’ is a compilation of World War II strategy games from 1C Company. It includes titles such as ‘Faces of War’, ‘V tylu vraga 2: Bratya po oruzhiyu’, and ‘V tylu vraga 2: Lis pustyni’, offering diverse scenarios behind enemy lines.

Za rodinu!: Vsya seriya – “V tylu vraga 2”: Review

Introduction

In the vast and storied landscape of World War II video games, few titles have captured the grit, complexity, and emotional weight of the Eastern Front as vividly as the Za rodinu! series. This compilation, Vsya seriya – “V tylu vraga 2”, serves as both a testament to the series’ enduring legacy and a reminder of the profound impact of strategic, story-driven gameplay. Released in 2009 by 1C Company, this collection brings together some of the most compelling titles in the V tylu vraga (Behind Enemy Lines) series, offering players a comprehensive and immersive journey through the harrowing experiences of Soviet soldiers and operatives during WWII. This review delves into the game’s development history, narrative depth, gameplay mechanics, and its place in the pantheon of war-themed video games.

Development History & Context

The Za rodinu! series, which translates to “For the Motherland!”, was developed by Best Way, a Ukrainian game studio renowned for their work in the strategy and tactical genres. The series, including Faces of War and V tylu vraga 2, was part of a broader effort by 1C Company to create games that resonated with Russian-speaking audiences while also appealing to a global market. The games were built on thelegenium engine, a proprietary engine developed by Best Way, which allowed for detailed 3D environments and complex tactical gameplay.

Released in 2009, Vsya seriya – “V tylu vraga 2” was compiled during a time when the gaming industry was beginning to shift towards more cinematic, story-driven experiences. However, the game’s focus on strategic depth and historical accuracy set it apart from more action-oriented WWII titles. The compilation included several stand-alone expansions and DLCs, such as V tylu vraga 2: Bratya po oruzhiyu (Brothers in Arms) and V tylu vraga 2: Lis pustyni (Desert Fox), each offering unique campaigns and gameplay mechanics.

The series’ development was also influenced by the cultural and historical significance of WWII in Russia, where the war is deeply ingrained in the national consciousness. The developers sought to create a game that not only entertained but also honored the sacrifices of Soviet soldiers while providing a nuanced portrayal of the war’s complexities.

Narrative & Thematic Deep Dive

At its core, Za rodinu!: Vsya seriya – “V tylu vraga 2” is a game about sacrifice, camaraderie, and the moral ambiguities of war. The narrative is heavily focused on the experiences of Soviet soldiers and operatives conducting missions behind enemy lines, from sabotage and reconnaissance to direct combat. The game’s story is told through a series of interconnected missions, each with its own objectives and characters, providing a sense of continuity and progression.

The characters in the game are well-developed and multidimensional, with distinct personalities and backstories that add emotional depth to the narrative. The dialogue is often terse and realistic, reflecting the harsh conditions and high stakes of war. The game also explores themes of loss, betrayal, and the psychological toll of combat, adding a layer of emotional complexity that sets it apart from more straightforward action-oriented WWII games.

One of the standout aspects of the game’s narrative is its ability to balance historical accuracy with dramatic storytelling. The game’s missions are inspired by real historical events, but they are also infused with fictional elements to enhance the player’s emotional investment. This approach allows players to connect with the characters and their struggles on a personal level while still feeling like they are experiencing a believable and authentic depiction of WWII.

Gameplay Mechanics & Systems

The gameplay in Za rodinu!: Vsya seriya – “V tylu vraga 2” is built around tactical strategy and resource management. Players take on the role of a commander, overseeing a team of soldiers as they carry out missions behind enemy lines. The game features a blend of real-time strategy and role-playing elements, with a strong emphasis on squad management and tactical decision-making.

One of the key mechanics in the game is the “soldier” system, where each soldier has unique skills, abilities, and attributes that can be developed over time. Players can customize their soldiers’ equipment, assign roles, and train them in specific skills, adding a layer of depth to the gameplay. The game also features a “commander” system, where the player’s decisions and actions have a direct impact on the morale, cohesion, and effectiveness of their squad.

Combat in the game is turn-based, with players issuing orders to their soldiers and then executing them in real-time. This hybrid approach allows for both strategic planning and fast-paced action, creating a dynamic and engaging gameplay experience. The game also features a variety of environments, from dense forests to urban settings, each with their own challenges and opportunities for tactical play.

In addition to the core gameplay mechanics, the game includes a variety of systems that add depth and complexity to the experience. These include a resource management system, where players must manage supplies, ammunition, and medical resources, and a reputation system, where the player’s actions and decisions affect the game’s story and outcome.

World-Building, Art & Sound

The world of Za rodinu!: Vsya seriya – “V tylu vraga 2” is richly detailed and immersive, with a strong emphasis on historical accuracy and authenticity. The game’s environments are meticulously crafted, with detailed landscapes, buildings, and objects that transport players to the battlefields of WWII. The art style is realistic and gritty, with a focus on muted colors and practical design to create a sense of grounding and believability.

The game’s sound design is equally impressive, with realistic sound effects, immersive ambient noise, and a haunting soundtrack that enhances the mood and atmosphere of the game. The sound effects, from the crack of gunfire to the rumble of tanks, are crisp and realistic, drawing players deeper into the game’s world. The ambient noise, such as the sounds of wind, birdsong, and distant explosions, adds a layer of immersion and tension, making the game feel alive and dynamic.

The game’s soundtrack is composed of a mix of orchestral and choral pieces, with haunting melodies and stirring themes that complement the game’s narrative and emotional tone. The music is used sparingly but effectively, often swelling during key moments in the story or during intense combat sequences to heighten the emotional impact.

Reception & Legacy

Za rodinu!: Vsya seriya – “V tylu vraga 2” was well-received by both critics and players upon its release, with praise for its engaging gameplay, rich narrative, and historical authenticity. The game was particularly popular in Russia and Eastern Europe, where the game’s themes and setting resonated strongly with audiences. However, the game’s niche appeal and limited marketing outside of its core audience meant that it did not achieve widespread commercial success in Western markets.

Despite this, the game has developed a dedicated fan base over the years, with many praising its depth, complexity, and attention to detail. The game’s legacy is also evident in its influence on subsequent games in the tactical strategy genre, with many developers drawing inspiration from its gameplay mechanics and narrative approach.

The compilation’s release in 2009 also served as a way to preserve and celebrate the series’ history, making it more accessible to new players while offering existing fans a comprehensive collection of the series’ best content. The game’s inclusion of multiple titles and expansions also demonstrated the series’ commitment to quality and depth, cementing its place as one of the premier WWII strategy franchises.

Conclusion

Za rodinu!: Vsya seriya – “V tylu vraga 2” stands as a testament to the power of video games to tell compelling, emotionally resonant stories while delivering engaging and challenging gameplay. The game’s focus on historical authenticity, tactical depth, and narrative richness sets it apart from more action-oriented WWII titles, offering players a unique and memorable experience.

While the game may not have achieved the same level of mainstream success as some of its contemporaries, its dedicated fan base and enduring legacy speak to its quality and impact. As a compilation, it serves as both a celebration of the series’ achievements and an accessible entry point for new players, ensuring that the stories and experiences of the Soviet soldiers who fought behind enemy lines will not be forgotten.

In the broader context of video game history, Za rodinu!: Vsya seriya – “V tylu vraga 2” holds a special place as a game that balanced innovation with tradition, offering a fresh perspective on one of the most well-trodden subjects in gaming. Its influence can be seen in many modern strategy games, and its commitment to storytelling and historical accuracy continues to inspire developers and players alike.