The Banner Saga 3 - PC & Mac (Steam)

The Banner Saga 3 is the final episode in the Nordic/Viking themed epic trilogy developed by Stoic and published by Versus Evil. This is an indie strategy game series that started off with the original Banner Saga in early 2014. The second in the series came out in mid 2016. This series also has its own unique and distinctive artstyle that is loved by all those that have tried out the game.

*Gameplay*
As I have said, this is a turn based strategy game. You will control a small party of warriors in each combat sequence. After you defeat each enemy your party grows stronger and your characters earn some item drops. Those that are fans of turn based games or strategy games will surely love this game’s combat loop. It is also very inoffensive so that even those that aren’t too fond of turn based games or strategy games can still find enjoyment in Banner Saga 3.

The game also has a city builder aspect to it. There are 2 main groups you control. One is the village of your people. You must choose how you wish to lead your people. Do you wish to be benevolent and help the poor of the village or do you wish to use all your funds to improve the defences. Each choice matters and can have an impact on how your story ends. Meanwhile the other group is a bunch of warriors from the village who are in search of the ‘darkness’ to end the misery once and for all.

*Art and Sound*
Even taking one look at this game will give you a home-y feeling. This game has wonderful 2D aesthetics that look hand drawn. It has a warm feeling around it that makes you feel comfortable and pleasing to look at but at the same time you know you have a battle on your hands and need to stay focused to successfully complete the game. The sound compliments the art design of the game to perfection.

*Story*
This is the third title in the Banner Saga series and as a result you will be jumping in to an ongoing story if you choose to start with this one. Don’t fret as you won’t feel lost although playing this game would make you want to go back and play the first two titles. If you are okay with spending a bit more money I’d highly finishing the games in order. The general story is of the people of the village you are controlling and their quest to vanquish the ‘darkness’(the big bad of the game) once and for all. I do not wish to spoil too much of the game so I won’t talk much about it but it is one of the best stories in gaming. The game also has multiple endings, you will definitely want to replay this game to try and find all the endings as it is so interesting. Heck, you will want to play all 3 games again as decisions in the first two games can influence the story here. Thankfully all the games are quite short so it doesn’t feel like a chore

*A True Masterpiece*
This game is a true masterpiece and stands alongside games such as The Witcher 3, GTA V, Bioshock series, Prey etc. On first sight while the game looks appealing it may not strike you as one capable of standing next to some of these other games but it’s just another example to not judge a book by it’s cover. The Banner Saga 3 is polished and does well in all departments. It’s not too expensive and has a good 10-15 hour campaign length, fit for the price. It also offers a ton of replayability that extends to the prequels in the series as well. Definitely a must buy

Reviewer: Michael UG