Players Like...

❤ Historical Authenticity and Realism

Players praise how faithfully the game recreates the tactics, formations, and unit types of the High Middle Ages from 1040 AD to 1270 AD. They note the game accurately depicts the dominance of heavily armored knights, the importance of terrain and formations, and the role of morale and randomness in determining battle outcomes. Reviewers describe the game as an accurate digital representation of a tabletop wargame from the period.

❤ Tactical Depth and Challenge

Reviewers highlight the strategic depth and challenge the game provides. Players must carefully plan troop deployments, positioning, and movement to gain advantages over the enemy, considering factors like terrain, unit types, and morale to devise effective tactics. Reviewers describe the AI as competent and unforgiving, punishing any mistakes or poor decisions, and mastering the game's mechanics as a rewarding, if steep, learning curve.

❤ Emergent Narratives

A common thread in the reviews is how the gameplay generates engaging, unpredictable "battle narratives." Reviewers describe witnessing unexpected events on the battlefield, like peasant levies holding off elite knights, generals rallying routing troops for one last desperate charge, or cavalry units becoming disorganized while pursuing the enemy. These dynamic, chaotic elements add to the authenticity and immersion of the experience.

❤ Flexible Scenarios and Customization

Players appreciate the wide variety of historical battles, campaigns, and custom scenarios. The ability to choose from over 100 historically accurate troop types across 29 different factions and nations allows for an endless number of possible matchups and strategic challenges. The game's scenario editor also enables players to create their own custom battles, further expanding the replayability.

❤ Tabletop Wargaming Feel

Reviewers commonly express that the game successfully captures the "look and feel" of a traditional tabletop wargame on the computer. The emphasis on tactics over grand strategy, the visual presentation, and the adherence to historical rules and mechanics all contribute to this tabletop-like experience that many players find engaging and authentic.