ECNETNews reports on the anticipated release of Band of Crusaders, a game that may require a second look for many players. The preview build notably lacks story elements, an aspect that is essential for fans of strategy RPGs who invest dozens, if not hundreds, of hours into a compelling narrative. The gameplay experience in this version has highlighted the importance of engaging storylines, as gameplay alone may not capture interest.
Set in an alternate medieval England, Band of Crusaders puts players in the shoes of the Grandmaster of a newly formed knightly order battling against demonic forces. The game features an open-world sandbox where strategic decisions must be made regarding knight deployments to fend off demon invasions while simultaneously seeking a resolution to stop them. Player choices have significant consequences on the unfolding story, impacting both combat outcomes and the larger narrative. The game world continuously evolves based on factors such as time of day and seasonal changes, reflecting the game’s dynamic nature.
However, the preview did not offer a chance to engage with overarching story quests or the comprehensive world simulation, which promises to alter battlefields based on player actions. Many game mechanics, such as camp operations beyond basic healing and armor repair, were also absent from this version. This context is crucial as the initial impressions may not fully represent the game’s potential and depth, which may be revealed in the full version.
The gameplay is reminiscent of contemporary titles in the genre, challenging players to lead units into real-time tactical battles. Each knight can be upgraded and specialized, allowing for the customization of soldiers. A balanced unit composition is necessary to prevent being overwhelmed, with a blend of crossbow sharpshooters and melee fighters. The challenge of permadeath introduces an additional layer of strategy, prompting players to recruit and train replacements for fallen knights.
The initial preview indicated a lower difficulty level, potentially diminishing the impact of losing knights. Players can easily find and recruit new soldiers, which may lead to a lack of attachment to these units. While this system prevents frustration, it may also encourage reckless sacrifices, as repetitive sound bites from the units reduce individual character significance. If the game scales encounters effectively in later stages, new recruits may catch up quickly, which could alleviate some concerns.
Without an engaging narrative or distinctive characters, Band of Crusaders risks feeling flat and uninspiring. The absence of compelling reasons to invest in the world or its inhabitants is a notable drawback. As players face the same enemy types repeatedly, the anticipated demonic foes are noticeably missing from the experience. There is hope that the forthcoming full release will incorporate these critical elements, as currently, Band of Crusaders may not meet expectations for an engaging and entertaining title.
Band of Crusaders is slated for release on PC, with a specific launch window yet to be revealed.
