Wartales is an engaging tactical RPG available on PC through platforms such as Steam and GOG. The game immerses players in a meticulously crafted medieval world, featuring challenging turn-based combat that emphasizes strategic planning. Each skirmish feels like a unique puzzle, rewarding careful maneuvering and tactical decision-making. Players can create their squads from various character classes, each offering distinct abilities. The depth extends beyond combat with systems for crafting, gathering, and trading, enriching the overall gameplay experience.
Engaging Turn-Based Combat
The turn-based combat in Wartales stands out due to its complexity and challenge. Players need to be strategic, as errors can lead to significant losses. A fallen squad member not only diminishes combat strength but also affects crafting capabilities associated with that character. The introduction of the Skelmar Invasion DLC enhances this experience by adding new enemies and environments, ensuring that each encounter remains fresh and exciting.
Dynamic Siege Combat
A highlight of the Skelmar Invasion DLC is the dynamic siege combat. Players can conduct full-scale assaults using battering rams and arrow volleys, introducing a new level of strategy to large-scale battles. This mechanic makes sieges memorable highlights of the campaign, as players must plan and execute attacks with precision.
Squad Customization
Wartales allows players to mix and match character classes and abilities, encouraging a personalized approach to gameplay. Whether opting for heavy tanks or ranged attackers, players can create diverse strategies tailored to their preferences, including the option to utilize animals like war ponies in their squads.
Robust Crafting, Gathering, and Trading
The crafting, gathering, and trading systems in Wartales are intricately designed, enhancing both the narrative and gameplay. Players can engage in crafting and trading that significantly affect their overall journey. Additionally, a darker path is available through thievery and raiding, impacting how NPCs and guards interact with the player based on their wanted status.
Pros and Cons
Based on player experiences, here are some notable strengths and weaknesses:
Pros:
- Immersive tactical combat that keeps each battle engaging.
- Extensive customization options for squad-building, allowing for strategic flexibility.
- Rich crafting and trading systems that enhance gameplay depth.
- Innovative siege mechanics introduced in the DLC, elevating large-scale battles.
- Continuous expansion of content, with new DLCs refining and enriching the game.
Cons:
- Steep learning curve due to complex gameplay systems.
- Minor bugs and UI quirks that can occasionally disrupt the experience.
- Pacing issues during some exploration segments, although the slower pace allows for strategic planning.
Expanding the Experience: Additional DLC Options
Wartales continues to expand its universe with various DLCs. In addition to Skelmar Invasion, players can explore:
- The Pits: Engage in brutal arena combat testing strategic skills in gladiatorial battles.
- The Tavern Opens: Experience the social aspects of the game in local taverns where characters can be recruited and side quests discovered.
- Pirates of Belerion: Venture into maritime adventures with new challenges and enemy types.
Final Thoughts
Having invested considerable time in Wartales and its DLCs, including Skelmar Invasion, I confidently recommend this game to fans of tactical RPGs. The combination of captivating turn-based combat, extensive squad customization, and robust crafting systems creates an exceptional gaming experience. With the added dynamics of siege mechanics and a variety of expansions, every playthrough offers a richly rewarding adventure filled with strategic depth and immersive narrative.
For those seeking a challenge that tests their tactical skills alongside a captivating story, Wartales presents an experience that should not be overlooked.