Project Haven sounds like heaven for tactical-based strategy fans. The developer, Code Three Fifty One, has unveiled a gameplay video on what to expect.

Using a grid-free urban battlefield, the game opts for point-based movement where, besides cover-based defence, players will also be able to use flexible stances.

One of the first standouts for Project Haven is not relying on brute force. Shoot the gun out on an enemy’s hand, apply a stealth-based approach and go for a silent takedown, as well as surprise attacks.

Project Haven key features include:

  • Modern aesthetics married to classic squad tactics gameplay featuring action point-based movement and deep ballistic simulation
  • A free-aiming system that allows you to take control of your mercs directly and manually shoot from an over-the-shoulder perspective, then pop behind cover to protect yourself from counterattacks.
  • Locational damage, letting you wing your enemies with a shot to the arm to reduce accuracy, slow their movement with a hit to the legs, or boost damage with a precise headshot.
  • An advanced cover system lets you adjust the stance of each merc with just two clicks. Peeking over cover or leaning round a wall exposes yourself, but provides vital lines of sight.
  • Mature storytelling. Learn the harsh realities of a seething megacity full of desperation and dark secrets. Witness the gritty lives of mercs and NPCs, and experience a story-driven campaign with fully voiced and motion-captured characters and cinematics.
  • RPG character progression Command a group of mercenaries, each with their own unique personality and attitude towards other characters. Improve their attributes and unlock new skills as they gain experience and level up.
  • Advanced weapon mechanics. Magazine management, chambered bullets, and different types of ammo for different situations. Calibers and ammunition types affect how far and how well projectiles penetrate and damage their target.
  • Skirmish, co-op & PvP. Play through the campaign mode with 1-4 players, or skirmish in randomly generated maps, fighting against friends or AI, alone or in co-op.

Next month, a major update is expected, including improvements to the user interface, in-game mechanics, new playable characters, and skills. The demo should follow after that.

The developers are maintaining a blog of Steam, so make sure to check out the updates.