Core Gameplay & Mechanics
Master the rhythm of medieval hack-and-slash combat, 500-soldier squad coordination, permadeath battalion traits, and dragon-tear corruption mutations.
Start here: your first campaign
- Pick a commander and learn their stamina rhythm.Heroes
- Recruit and upgrade Scottish battalion troops between runs.Troops
- Slot Dragon Tear emblems to build elemental synergies.Runes
- Rescue camp quartermasters and expand settlement tech.Settlement
- Break boss guards with parries before pushing act bosses.Bosses
500-Unit Massive Highland Warfare
Massive skirmishes pit 500+ Scottish warriors against corrupted hordes, with physics-based stagger and dynamic flocking AI.
Stamina-Driven Hack & Slash Rhythm
Every heavy swing, 360-degree sweep, and shield parry draws from your stamina meter. Master combat rhythm to stagger armored elites and execute devastating cleaves.
Permadeath Squads with Permanent Traits
Your squad soldiers level up alongside you during runs, learning unique battle traits (Lifesteal, Anti-Cavalry Spikes) that persist back to your Camp Settlement.
Dragon Tear Meteorite Mutations
Channel cosmic dragon-tear meteorites scattered across the battlefield to infuse weapons with flame cyclones, lightning arcs, and frost stuns.
Go deeper into the database
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How does stamina work in Tears of Metal?
Light attacks, heavy attacks, dodges, parries, and sprinting all drain stamina. Always keep a small reserve so you can dodge or parry, and time parries perfectly to avoid the stamina cost.
How do I make my battalion soldiers stronger between runs?
Soldiers earn permanent battle traits after campaigns. Recruit and upgrade them in the camp, then bring them on future expeditions so their skills persist.
What is the fastest progression route for beginners?
Start with Wallace, recruit Highland troops, socket Dragon Tear emblems into your weapon, rescue camp quartermasters, then push the three act bosses.