We Love It's Guide to…
Lead four prototype mechs through turn-based missions to repel a computer virus, using gear combinations to counter infected robots.
Released 25 Feb 2020
Command Four Prototype Mechs
Combine Gear Drawbacks
Overheat Enemy Robots
MAINFRAME DEFENDERS - Turn-based tactics centered around gear and unit customization. It offers simple combat, high replayability, and tons of loot. Items don't just provide stats boost, but also offer distinct mechanics that can be combined into powerful builds.
Developed by Synthetic Domain · Published by Synthetic Domain
A computer virus has taken control of robotic units inside the Stargazer research complex. You command a squad of four prototype mechs tasked with defending the complex’s mainframe.
Fight turn-based battles across missions with different objectives, including destroying unit fabricators, downloading data, and clearing infected nodes. Enemy units have distinct roles and can counter particular tactics, so positioning and target choice matter.
Equip mechs with items that grant abilities as well as stat changes, balancing their limitations and drawbacks to create squad combinations. Missions combine hand-made rooms with procedural level generation, while progression unlocks additional units and items.
Positive reviews often enjoy experimenting with equipment and squad builds, especially when combinations turn item drawbacks into strengths. Players also praise the tactical challenge of adapting to enemy traits, and some highlight the retro presentation and soundtrack. These are not universal impressions: some reviewers find the game difficult to learn or repetitive.
Tactical retrofuturistic strategy game. A computer virus has infiltrated the "Stargazer" research complex. Most of the robotic units are controlled by the virus. Lead a squad of 4 prototypes on a mission to defend complex mainframe. You'll have to repel assaults, destroy unit fabricators, download valuable data, clear infected nodes, and do more on your way to the deepest parts of the complex. Work with item limitations and drawbacks to build powerful combinations. Destroy your enemies with diverse tactics: overheat them, melt with corrosion, absorb damage, and return fire. But don't rely on a single strategy too much - enemies might have a way to counter it. But above everything else: defend the Mainframe!
* RETRO STYLE: Graphics, inspired by 80s terminal PC with hybrid synthwave soundtrack.
* DIVERSE TACTICS: Cook enemy robots to death, bury them under your bullets, eliminate with a single powerful shot, or render your opponents useless with debuffs - this game is designed with a lot of viable strategies in mind.
* BUILD YOUR SQUAD: Similar to how in card games you have to build your deck, in Mainframe Defenders you have to combine different items with unique abilities, to create an unstoppable squad. Work with item drawbacks or double down on them, creating flawed, yet powerful build!
* UNIQUE ENEMIES: Enemy squad won't sit idle, though. Each unit has its own role in the squad and designed to counter certain strategies. Pick your targets wisely, or you will lose.
* PROCEDURAL LEVELS: Hand-made rooms are combined with procedural generation to create random levels. Missions have differing objectives, combined with unique mission conditions. Will you accept the challenge or avoid the unknown and risk falling behind?
* PROGRESSION SYSTEM: Victory or defeat, the game is not over yet! Unlock new units, each with a unique set of upgrades and load-outs. Unlock new items to bolster your new strategies.
Join our Discord to stay informed about updates for Mainframe Defenders. There you can share feedback and suggestions, as well as chat with our team about the next project_
| Platforms | Windows, Linux |
|---|---|
| Achievements | 14 |
| Age ratings |
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| Controller required | No |
| Website | Official website |
