Fans of large-scale military shooters have a new title to keep an eye on. WARDOGS is an upcoming tactical first-person shooter from Bulkhead, the studio behind Battalion 1944 and The Turing Test, with publishing support from Team17. Scheduled to launch in Steam Early Access during 2026, the game aims to combine the scale of Battlefield with the teamwork of Squad while introducing several unique mechanics of its own.
Unlike many modern multiplayer shooters, WARDOGS isn’t a battle royale or an extraction shooter. Instead, it focuses on large-scale objective-based warfare where up to 100 players compete across massive battlefields. One of its biggest twists is a three-team format, creating more unpredictable battles than traditional two-sided conflicts.
Each match takes place on expansive maps featuring shifting objectives, ensuring that no two games play out exactly the same. Players will need to capture strategic locations, coordinate with teammates, and adapt to changing frontlines while making use of infantry combat, vehicles, and defensive fortifications.
Another standout feature is WARDOGS’ persistent economy. Rather than selecting fixed classes, players earn in-game currency by contributing to their team through combat, capturing objectives, transporting allies, reviving teammates, and completing support roles. That money can then be spent on better weapons, armour, equipment, and vehicles, with progression carrying over between matches.
The game also promises destructible environments, allowing firefights to evolve as buildings and cover are damaged throughout a battle. Combined with proximity voice chat and an emphasis on teamwork, WARDOGS is designed to reward communication and coordinated tactics instead of lone-wolf play.
Bulkhead has stated that WARDOGS is intended to strike a balance between arcade action and military simulation. While realism plays an important role, the developers want the game to remain accessible to players who enjoy fast-paced multiplayer shooters without requiring the complexity of hardcore military simulators.
The Early Access release will include the core 100-player experience alongside progression systems, vehicles, logistics gameplay, and ongoing seasonal updates. Additional features, including expanded progression systems, player skills, challenges, and a Black Market, are planned throughout the Early Access period as development continues.
With large-scale tactical shooters becoming increasingly popular, WARDOGS is positioning itself as an ambitious new entry into the genre. If it can successfully deliver its blend of massive battles, strategic teamwork, and persistent progression, it could become one of the standout multiplayer shooters to watch in 2026.