So what IS this game exactly? Well it is to Blackguards what the new XCOMs are to the old ones. So it's a 3D tbs. But it's designed to be pretty hardcore from the outset and this actually works because it stops you getting too strong too soon and retains an addictive quality where you just don't want to accept defeat. In this sense, then, it actually has more in common with Blackguards than any other game I can think of. The same moments of feeling absolutely robbed by the RNG and the same crazy difficulty spikes. I can understand why some have downvoted it for this reason because it can be very frustrating and it constantly autosaves so, much like a roguelike, there's no getting around failure with scum saves. I read a few reviews where people criticise the AI but, to be perfectly honest, the fact that you are outnumbered by superior forces 99% of the time means that if the AI were any better you would always be crushed. The warbands are just about different enough to be worth multiple replays and overall it's a very rewarding experience for those who can stick with it.

*edit* As of the introduction of the latest DLC warband - The Undead, this game is now more well polished and well rounded than ever. After almost 170 hours of playing, this is, in my opinion, on the shortlist for one of the best games ever made.

So what IS this game exactly? Well it is to Blackguards what the new XCOMs are to the old ones. So it's a 3D tbs. But it's designed to be pretty hardcore from the outset and this actually works because it stops you getting too strong too soon and retains an addictive quality where you just don't want to accept defeat. In this sense, then, it actually has more in common with Blackguards than any other game I can think of. The same moments of feeling absolutely robbed by the RNG and the same crazy difficulty spikes. I can understand why some have downvoted it for this reason because it can be very frustrating and it constantly autosaves so, much like a roguelike, there's no getting around failure with scum saves. I read a few reviews where people criticise the AI but, to be perfectly honest, the fact that you are outnumbered by superior forces 99% of the time means that if the AI were any better you would always be crushed. The warbands are just about different enough to be worth multiple replays and overall it's a very rewarding experience for those who can stick with it. *edit* As of the introduction of the latest DLC warband - The Undead, this game is now more well polished and well rounded than ever. After almost 170 hours of playing, this is, in my opinion, on the shortlist for one of the best games ever made.