In the simplest terms possible, Operation Darkness is a tactical RPG by Atlus set in World War II. However, it is also a game where you may order a British werewolf to rip through a platoon of Waffen SS. If the confluence of that sort of occult alternate history and WWII tactical combat sounds as appealing to you as it did to me, you may want to do yourself a favor and download the demo of Operation Darkness that’s on Xbox Live right now. Or you may want to have yourself committed. Either one seems appropriate, honestly.

While the graphics in the demo seemed rather dated, I doubt that will ruffle too many feathers among the intended audience, as most tactical RPGs are still sprite-based. Also, even though the action is a bit ponderous, if all you want to do is command a group of Allied arcane special forces to shoot Nazis and blow up Panzers, then you may well be satisfied. As a special bonus, upon completion of the demo, you’ll be treated to a cut-scene featuring the creepiest depiction of Heinrich Himmler this side of Return to Castle Wolfenstein or, you know, the actual Heinrich Himmler.

All in all, Operation Darkness may, if nothing else, offer an effective stopgap this summer until Valkyria Chronicles comes out later this year.