Panzer Knights: Commander’s Edition

Panzer Knights: Commander’s Edition blends great tank combat with weak storytelling and spotty AI, resulting in a game that’s good but never quite reaches its potential.

The original Panzer Knights was a fun game with an interesting concept that had its fair share of issues that, unfortunately, persist in this re-released version. For those interested in an arcade-style tank simulation game, Girls und Panzer: Dream Tank Match is the superior game, with smoother gameplay, far fewer bugs and issues, and a basis in a popular anime series. Panzer Knights: Commander’s Edition is a nice re-release that packs in all previous DLC content and additional bonus content, but still has a lot of work to do before rising through the ranks of tank simulation games.

Panzer Knights feels incredibly lacking, and not just in its basic visuals, as the colorful nature of its environments and the bantering of its anime girls does have some appeal, but it feels shallow and lacking any depth. From a barely coherent narrative that loosely ties together real moments in history, to limited combat options, and bizarre technical issues, Panzer Knights is an imitation of far better experiences.

Ultimately, Panzer Knights: Commander’s Edition is more than the sum of its parts. Disappointing presentation, limited depth and variety, noticeable jank, not much done with the anime style and a complete lack of co-op or multiplayer hamper the game’s potential immensely. Yet, I’ve found the campaign to be an enjoyable romp on these wildly hot summer evenings, and Panzer Knights does the one thing it aims to do well – deliver a fun and accessible war tank simulation. Personally, I’m alright with that.

"Panzer Knights: Commander's Edition brings a distinctive perspective to WWII tank combat, pairing striking anime-inspired art direction with a content-rich console release. Rigid controls and an uneven script hold it back, but arcade tank fans looking for something different will find a recommendable experience."