Holdfast: Nations At War, by Anvil Game Studios, is a multiplayer historical shooter emphasizing large-scale teamwork. Players join large, objective-driven battles on period maps, taking roles that support squad tactics and coordinated assaults across land and sea, in both line engagements and shipboard actions. The title blends role-based classes, melee and ranged combat, era-specific set pieces, and large-scale matches rather than scripted single-player content. It fits players who prefer historical tactics, coordinated teams, and social play over modern shooter precision.

Holdfast stages true 150-player, era-spanning battles

Matches scale to more than 150 participants on land, coastal, and naval maps, placing players into the chaos of Napoleonic fields and First World War trenches via the Frontlines expansion. Players adopt soldier, sailor, or officer roles and the game alternates between open-field firefights and tight shipboard encounters, producing large, emergent set pieces that reward coordination in platoon-sized groups.

Class variety and unconventional support roles change squad dynamics

The roster lists over 27 distinct classes, including Line Infantry, Officers, Surgeons, and Carpenters, which shift a squad's tactical options. The game also offers noncombatant roles like Musicians who play period-accurate tunes to buff allies. These class choices combine with a directional melee system inspired by historical fencing and bayonet technique to make small-unit decisions feel consequential.

Ship combat and boarding create high-tension moments at sea

Naval engagements let players crew warships equipped with cannons and swivel guns, man damage control roles, and execute boarding actions against enemy vessels. Shipboard fights require coordinated crews to manage gunnery, sails, and close-quarters combat, so a single match can shift from broad artillery volleys to frantic hand-to-hand struggles aboard a vessel.

Expect a social learning curve and charming rough edges

The standout feature is the 3D proximity voice system, which the community uses for both tactical calls and theatrical roleplay; that social layer is central to the experience. Players note the combat mechanics can feel janky compared to AAA shooters, a quality many treat as part of the game's character. The developer, Anvil, supports the title with regular large-scale expansions, and the game runs on Windows via Steam with console cross-play available.

Best enjoyed with a regular crew and a tolerance for rough edges

Holdfast is a rewarding choice for players who enjoy socially driven, team-focused matches and theatrical roleplay; the game emphasizes player-led tactics and emergent encounters. Players seeking tight, modern competitive precision may find the mechanics less polished, but those who value communal sessions and period atmosphere will likely return for repeated matches and expansions. The experience suits groups that relish social cooperation more than esports-level consistency.