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Review of Hard West: Complete Edition on Nintendo Switch

by Max Rathon Max Rathon photo Mar 2019
Cover image of Hard West: Complete Edition on Switch
Gamefings Score: 7.5
Platform: Switch Switch logo
Released: 07 Mar 2019
Genre: Turn-based tactics
Developer: CreativeForge Games
Publisher: Good Shepherd Entertainment

Introduction

In a world where cowboys and the supernatural meet in a clash for tactical supremacy, 'Hard West: Complete Edition' invites players to step into an alternate Old West, thicker with metaphysical drama than a poorly written spaghetti western. Let's saddle up and ride into the nitty-gritty details of this game, examining whether it's a wild west adventure worth your time or just another tumbleweed in the gaming landscape.

Gameplay

The game splits itself into two modes: a strategic exploration map that resembles a board game and the frantic but methodical turn-based tactical battles. Imagine the thrill of flip-flopping from behind a digital 'rock' to getting ambushed by a ghostly cowboy, armed only with your luck and a handful of poker cards. Yes, that's right, playing cards are your new tactical best friends. Each battle is fought with characters that have two action points per turn, which can be spent to move around the battlefield or take a shot at an enemy. But beware, each bullet fired is a declaration of your character's impending doom because it concludes your turn immediately. You might want to think twice before unleashing that six-shooter. The game does away with traditional hit chances, opting instead for a 'Luck' system where characters can only be hit if their Luck runs out. So, while other turn-based games rely on a roll of the die, Hard West makes you put on your poker face.

Graphics

Visually, 'Hard West' is styled like a beautifully orchestrated comic book, with its stunning illustrations lending itself to the atmosphere, which can best be described as 'moody with a hint of the macabre.' The graphics manage to paint a chilling picture of the Wild West, soaring on the wings of its artistic vision while being stuck on foot. The Unity engine does its job, though on the Switch it's more like running a marathon in flip-flops. It's not going to break the scoreboard - the framerate can dip at times, leading to a mild feeling of hitching when the action gets intense. Let's be honest, it's like trying to watch a movie on a choppy internet connection. It takes a hit on the presentation, but hey, at least the artwork looks great when it's not moving too fast!

Conclusion

In conclusion, 'Hard West: Complete Edition' delivers a unique blend of tactical gameplay combined with rich storytelling elements that embrace the supernatural in a way that feels refreshing and novel. Sure, it has some minor technical hitches and visuals that may not dazzle like the latest AAA titles. Still, for players looking for a strategy game with a twist, laced through with horror elements straight from a nightmares-coffee-table-book, Hard West makes a solid choice. As your character wrangles through zombies, demons, and the occasional bank heist, remember that it's not just about surviving the wilds; it's about outsmarting the supernatural while trying not to laugh in disbelief. So gather your posse and prepare for a journey that's hard on the outside but deliciously tactical on the inside!

See Latest Prices for Hard West: Complete Edition on Switch on Amazon

See Prices for Hard West: Complete Edition on Switch on Ebay

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