WARDOGS Beginner Guide: Your First Steps in a 100-Player War
WARDOGS is a tactical all-out-warfare FPS where 100 players split across three teams fight over a control zone. You do not just shoot — you earn cash, buy a loadout, and decide how to help your team reach 100 points first. This guide covers the first things a new player needs to know.
Before your first match
WARDOGS launches into Early Access on 10 September 2026 (PC via Steam, developed by BULKHEAD, published by Team17). You start every WARDOG career with $10,000 in cash. Each life you spend that money on a custom loadout — weapons, gear, utility and vehicles — chosen from a wide selection.
- Install the game and check your system against the minimum requirements (Windows 10, 16 GB RAM, GTX 1660 / RX 590).
- Join the official Discord and follow @wardogs for matchmaking and server information.
- Skim the match objective: the team with the most players inside the control zone earns points — the first to 100 wins.
What to do in your first match
- Head toward the control zone — that is how your team earns points.
- Buy a sensible loadout with your starting cash; a balanced rifle and basic gear beats a risky all-in spend.
- Stay near teammates. Team actions reward cash, and numbers win the zone.
- Survive to earn — reviving squadmates, ferrying allies and holding the objective all pay.
How you earn and spend
Cash and XP drive progression. Nearly every teamplay action pays: reviving, transporting friendlies, controlling the objective. The Hot Zone pays double cash for the extra risk. Your cash carries over between matches, so saving lets you field better gear later.
Common beginner mistakes
- Solo-charging the zone and dying instantly with no income.
- Ignoring the economy — your loadout and vehicles matter as much as aim.
- Not using voice chat; WARDOGS rewards communication and teamwork.
Where to go next
Read the how to play guide for the full rules, the economy guide to make money, and the loadout guide to build your kit.
FAQ
Do I need to know the maps first?
No — control zone locations are randomized each match, so learning tactics and teamwork matters more than memorising maps.
Is there a single-player mode?
WARDOGS is an online multiplayer FPS. Early Access focuses on the 100-player three-team matches.
What hardware do I need?
Minimum: Windows 10, Intel i5 8600 / Ryzen 5 3500, 16 GB RAM, GTX 1660 / RX 590. Recommended: Windows 11, i7 12700K / Ryzen 7 5700X, RTX 3070 / RX 6700 XT.
