Common Sense Media Review
By Chad Sapieha
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Tough but rewarding tactical RPG with realistic violence.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 16+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Play
Videos and Photos
Blackguards
Parent and Kid Reviews
What's It About?
BLACKGUARDS begins with a prison escape with the player in control of the escapees. It's a sign of things to come in a game that shuns traditional heroes. Your characters range from being a little rough around the edges to being verifiable scoundrels, all with their own motives and objectives. It all takes place in a fantasy setting just gritty enough that it could almost be mistaken for our world's history -- if it weren't for the existence of magic, mages, and dwarves (it's based on a German pen-and-paper role-playing game called The Dark Eye). Play shifts among story sequences set in towns and combat maps with floors divided into hexagonal patterns. Fights play out in turns, with battles serving to advance the story. There are nearly 200 combat maps through the campaign, making for very lengthy play.
Is It Any Good?
Blackguards isn't for the easily frustrated. Those used to more forgiving turn-based strategy games will quickly run into a wall here as they encounter maps that require well-considered decisions. The smart computer-controlled enemies are only too happy to take advantage of even the smallest player-made mistakes. It often comes down to finding the proper mix of conservative tactics and aggressive actions. Some missions require hasty movement across maps overcoming enemies and traps along the way as a turn timer counts down, while others reward players who inch their parties forward and draw out their enemies one or two at a time. Regardless of the tactics required, success is most often found in lessons learned from previous defeats -- and a bit of luck, since not all attacks are guaranteed to find their marks.
It can be frustrating, and at times it borders on unfair. However, as the game progresses and you come to better understand your characters' strengths and weaknesses -- which you help shape over time -- you may be surprised at how rewarding this lengthy and challenging role-playing game can be.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about the impact of violence in games. Are there any situations where violence is ever justified? What are the real-world consequences of violent behavior?
Discuss strategic thinking. What does it mean to be strategic? What sorts of strategies do you create, consciously or not, to deal with problems you encounter on a daily basis?
Game Details
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