It seems like I’m constantly discussing grimdark XCOM-style games lately. Whether it’s official Warhammer titles or games heavily inspired by the Warhammer 40,000 universe, this genre and setting combination is proving to be incredibly popular and successful. Fortunately for titles like Menace, players are far from bored with this formula. And the developer, Overhype Studios, is ensuring the experience stays fresh by rolling out a significant update to its successful free demo, featuring community-requested balance adjustments and additional missions.
With over 100,000 players already diving into Menace, this turn-based strategy game has garnered overwhelmingly positive feedback. Enthusiasts are praising its engaging tactical gameplay, which involves planet-hopping and deploying powerful mechs. In response to this pre-release enthusiasm, Overhype Studios is launching a major update for the existing demo, just in time for this week’s Steam Next Fest.
The developer, Overhype, reports that the demo has accumulated 600 reviews, resulting in a ‘very positive’ rating on Steam. However, this impressive rating isn’t visible on Menace’s main store page yet because the full game isn’t slated for release until February 2026.
The community’s feedback has been incredibly helpful and constructive. As a direct result, Overhype has implemented a host of bug fixes and a few crucial balance adjustments. This comes even as the developer noted that the game was already “running surprisingly well.”
Key changes in the Next Fest demo include a significant nerf to the pirate flame truck, which many players felt was an unstoppable force. Its health and armor have been reduced, making it less formidable. Additionally, Overhype plans to overhaul the line of sight markers. The current system, acknowledged by the developers as “simplistic and abstract,” often leads to confusion between player expectations and actual gameplay mechanics. This visual language rework, however, will be a more extensive undertaking.
The updated Steam Next Fest demo also significantly broadens the playable content, introducing ten brand-new missions as part of an operation titled “Thwart Invasion.” Expect more weapons, more unique walkers, and more of all the engaging elements you’ve already come to appreciate in the game.
Menace is scheduled for release on Thursday, February 5, 2026, but you can experience its updated Steam Next Fest demo right now.
For those eager to discover more games in this vein, our curated selection of the best Warhammer 40k games offers many titles that share thematic similarities with Menace. And if you’d rather skip the immense lore of the 40k universe, consider exploring some of the finest strategy games available.
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