The shooter/tower defense hybrid series has attracted gamers since the original’s release way back in 2011. Unlike the studio did in the previous game, Orcs Must Die! Unchained, Robot Entertainment has opted to move away from traditional console gaming on the PS4 and has instead declared exclusivity to Google Stadia. Showcasing new and familiar enemies, players can choose to pair up with a friend with online co-op, or go solo through the story.

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The replay value of the Orcs Must Die series is one that has ensured its success over the last decade. This one is set to offer the same, detailing approximately 12-15 hours of fresh gameplay for gamers to come at any which way they please. Presenting a new story to accompany the classic gameplay, this version of Robot Entertainment’s project attempts to bring the highly-touted franchise into the modern era. 

Since the servers for Unchained were shut down in 2019, many were left having to replay the originals from 2011 and 2012. With the new platform on the Google Stadia however, fans will be able to enjoy the tower defense quicker than ever.

Destructoid (Chris Carter)

Score: 7.5/10

TSA (Dominic Leighton)

8/10

TechRaptor (William Worrall)

Score: 7/10

Mirror (James Ide)

IGN (Dan Stapleton)

Score: 70/100

The general consensus appears to be that this Orcs Must Die! will appeal to current fans of the franchise, but fail to attract many new ones. While it hits a lot of familiar notes, it does so without venturing too far out of the norm. For old fans longing for a fresh view on the beloved franchise, however, reviews suggest they will have something to enjoy. And with it being free for those subscribed to Google Stadia, the best scenario means a thrilling 12-15 hour gaming experience, and at the worst some disappointment at what could have been.

Although reviews fail to break the mold of previous installations, there is at least a reliability in the desired product. The real question here however is whether or not the Google Stadia will be able to match the burgeoning success of its rival console releases, and whether Orcs Must Die! 3 can survive on it alone.

Orcs Must Die! 3 is out now on Google Stadia.

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