Firefighting Simulator (2020)

Firefighting Simulator: The Squad takes an underrepresented concept and delivers a rousing co-op experience. Despite its name, the game doesn't get too bogged down in details, making for an entertaining gameplay loop that's oddly relaxing – despite the intense scenarios on display. Some shoddy AI and repetition mean we wouldn't recommend it solo, but there's undeniable fun to be had with friends.

Firefighting Simulator: The Squad has significant flaws with the single player AI who are practically useless at anything other than menial tasks, and there's a distinct lack of urgency involved in the missions once you realise the people inside can't die and the building never razes itself to the ground. Despite these glaring issues, it's actually a really enjoyable and rewarding experience with a zen-like quality akin to vacuuming a filthy carpet. There's a great deal of satisfaction to be had in extinguishing the wide variety of different fires across the city map, and completing the objectives with friends (or strangers) online only enhances the sense of achievement.

Fun with friends for a short time, Firefighting Simulator - The Squad quickly loses its appeal when played alone. Commanding a team of unthinking AI that seemingly ignores your orders makes for a frustrating time.

Firefighting Simulator – The Squad isn't a dumpster fire, but it has a hard time staying out of its own way. Perfectly fine firefighting gameplay is smothered by annoying bugs and wildly inconsistent AI. There is enjoyment to be had, but you better gear up for inconveniences along the way.

I finished the game in less than 40 something hours (I have redone some maps and spent 10 or more hours doing that as well), and I would have liked to see more calls to respond to. Maybe throw in a curveball or two like traffic accidents and gas leaks, hazmat incidents, and stuff like that, and I would gladly keep playing. Overall, this is a very good game and I will definitely keep playing until the next one comes out, or maybe more calls are added to this one. Either way, I have been very entertained by the game and appreciate the opportunity to review it and offer my opinions.