The Banner Saga, developed and published by Stoic Studio in 2014, is a tactical RPG that follows the journey of two separate clans, the Vikings and the Varls, in a world inspired by Norse mythology. Players take control of both groups as they try to survive a world under siege while dealing with internal conflicts and betrayals. The game features challenging turn-based combat and resource management, as well as stunning hand-drawn artwork, a haunting soundtrack, and deep gameplay. The Banner Saga is a must-play game for fans of RPGs or anyone who loves a good story.
A Review of the Banner Saga: An RPG with an Epic Adventure Plot
The Banner Saga is a tactical role-playing game (RPG) that follows the journey of two separate clans, the Vikings and the Varls, in a fantasy world inspired by Norse mythology. It was developed and published by Stoic Studio in 2014, and has since gained a large following for its outstanding art, music, writing, and gameplay. The game is available on various platforms including Steam, iOS, and Android. In this article, we will examine various aspects of The Banner Saga that make it such a compelling RPG with an epic adventure plot.
Story and Characters
The Banner Saga is set in a world on the brink of collapse, where the sun has stopped moving and the darkness called the Dredge threatens to consume everything in its path. Players take control of two groups of characters: the Vikings, humans who come from a land called Skogr, and the Varls, giants with horns on their heads who have lived alongside humans for centuries. The game centers around the story of these two groups as they try to survive in a world under siege while dealing with internal conflicts and betrayals.
The game’s characters are just as memorable as its beautiful artwork. From the stoic Varl warrior Hakon to the determined human leader Rook, players will soon find themselves caring deeply for the characters they control. The Banner Saga allows players to make choices that affect the story and outcome of the game, and there are no easy decisions to be made. The game’s dialogue options are well-written and realistic, often forcing players to weigh different options and making them feel the weight of their decisions immediately.
Gameplay
The Banner Saga’s gameplay is both challenging and unique. Each battle takes place on a grid, where players must strategically place their characters in order to take down the enemy. Movement distances, line of sight, and various abilities all play a role in combat. Battles are turn-based, with players taking turns moving their characters and performing actions such as attacks or using special abilities. The game features unique twists that keep combat fresh throughout, such as the ability for certain characters to push enemies aside or to move freely through units.
Managing resources and making choices is also a big part of the game, as players guide their party through a harsh landscape of snow, ice, and treacherous terrain. Supplies, morale, and even the number of fighters in the party all play a role in the game’s success. Decisions must be made carefully, as all choices come with consequences. The Banner Saga offers a rich and deep gameplay experience, challenging even the most seasoned RPG gamers.
Art, Music, and Sound Design
The Banner Saga features stunning hand-drawn artwork that is reminiscent of classic Disney films or graphic novels. The bold lines and subtle shading give a sense of depth and realism to the game’s characters and environments. The game’s visual style is carried through to the game’s animated cutscenes, which are a joy to watch and really help to immerse the player in the world of The Banner Saga.
The game’s haunting soundtrack by composer Austin Wintory perfectly captures the bleak and desolate atmosphere of the game’s world. The orchestral pieces are memorable and provide a fitting backdrop to the game’s narrative. Sound design is also top-notch, with satisfying sound effects for everything from sword clashes to the crunch of snow underfoot.
Conclusion
The Banner Saga is a game that is truly greater than the sum of its parts. Its beautiful artwork, memorable characters, deep and challenging gameplay, and haunting soundtrack come together to create a storytelling experience like no other. If you are a fan of RPGs or simply love a good story, The Banner Saga is a must-play game.