The game has an open world in which players traverse an overworld map, encountering points of interest, such as towns, dungeons, and other mercenaries.

When the player's group encounters hostile non-player characters or animals, turn-based combat is resolved on a tactical map.

While camping, characters can engage in a variety of actions related to their profession, such as cooking, blacksmithing, and appraising relics found while adventuring.

The game takes on elements of an economic simulation instead, forcing players to find ways to finance their growing mercenary company.

[3] PC Gamer wrote, "Don't be fooled by its drab exterior, Wartales is a deep and richly rewarding exercise in party creation.

To mark this milestone, the "Skelmar Invasion" DLC, introducing siege battles and additional content, was released on December 10, 2024.