Earth Defence (2026)

D3 Publisher used to be a budget publisher and EDF was a standout amongst their releases, but at this point there’s too much EDF for the sake of EDF without any good reason for its existence and at too high of a price point. Like I just can’t put in the effort to care anymore if glorified DLC and patches are going to be released as a brand-new numbered entry at full price.

Fundamentally, Earth Defence Force 6 is 'more of the same' as 5, with an improved story and some very slight changes. The darker story is much more welcome, and the new enemies and weapons give players more variety. Gameplay wise it is going to be nearly the same as the last main entry, with the pretty cool narrative style of the opening levels. It's not going to blow anyone away, but it's very much in the vein of fun that will suck the hours away.

Earth Defense Force 6 distinguishes itself as the most compelling entry in the series, successfully drawing me back into its captivating gameplay loop, a feat that previous titles had failed to achieve.

Earth Defense Force 6 is a big and loud culmination of everything that the series had to offer up until now. If the game feels a bit pricey, then just wait for the sale. And if you have an itch to kill some bugs right about now, then just buy one of the previous games, they are pretty good as well.

EDF6 is confident in wearing its rough edges with pride while also being a gleeful, joyous mess alone or with company.