Wolfenstein: The Old Blood

Set in an alternate 1946 where Nazi Germany is close to winning World War II, this standalone prequel follows B.J. Blazkowicz on a mission to obtain information about General Deathshead. The eight chapters tell two connected stories, beginning with an infiltration of Castle Wolfenstein and continuing in the town of Wulfburg.

Play through first-person combat encounters with options to sneak past enemies and take out commanders or fight openly with firearms and explosives. The arsenal includes new weapons such as a bolt-action rifle, shotgun and grenade-launching Kampfpistole; weapons can be dual-wielded. A pair of metal pipes serves for close-quarters attacks and climbing walls.

Explore castles, villages, valleys and catacombs as the mission shifts from military infiltration to a search involving ancient artifacts and supernatural threats. Perks unlock through gameplay actions, while collectibles and combat challenge maps offer additional activities.

Players often praise the forceful, enjoyable gunplay and the choice between stealth and open combat, along with the atmospheric settings and the distinctive pipe used for climbing and melee attacks. Some also enjoy the supernatural turn and nods to earlier Wolfenstein games. Common reservations include the short campaign, a story and cast that many find less developed than The New Order, and stealth sections some players find repetitive; some reviews also report performance or technical problems.