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Review of The Banner Saga on Nintendo Switch

by Max Rathon Max Rathon photo May 2018
Cover image of The Banner Saga on Switch
Gamefings Score: 8.5
Platform: Switch Switch logo
Released: 17 May 2018
Genre: Tactical Role-Playing
Developer: Stoic
Publisher: Versus Evil

Introduction

Welcome to the world of "The Banner Saga," a tactical role-playing game that's like if 'Game of Thrones' sat down with 'Vikings' and had a heart-to-heart about how to make poor life choices that come back to bite you. Picture yourself as a reluctant leader overseeing a caravan of misfits on the run from the terrifying Dredge, which, let's face it, sounds like an appropriate name for just about anything after a late-night taco binge. With its stunning hand-drawn art style and strategic combat, this game creates a narrative experience that is as rewarding as it is punishing. Hop onto your digital chariot and let's dive in!

Gameplay

In "The Banner Saga," your choices matter more than your high school grades. You'll be managing not just a bunch of soldiers, but also the morale and the survival of your caravan as you navigate a harsh world inspired by Norse mythology-not your friendly neighborhood comic book variety. Embrace turn-based combat that feels both fresh and reminiscent of classics like 'Final Fantasy Tactics' and 'Shining Force.' Each combat encounter is a tactical puzzle, giving you more options for tactical refreshment than a 7-Eleven on a hot summer day. Your characters? They're not just battle-hardened; they'll complain, get injured, and occasionally die-yup, that's right, death is kind of a big deal here. So, choose wisely or miss your chance for glory; your choices shape the story, branch into various outcomes, and create consequences so severe that you'll forget about your real job for a while.

Graphics

Let's talk graphics because holy Ragnarok! The hand-drawn art in "The Banner Saga" could make you weep from its beauty. Inspired by the works of Eyvind Earle and Don Bluth (the OGs of old-school animation), the game combines a dark, moody color palette with stunningly detailed character animations. The visuals are so striking, they could turn a troll's head. Each scene is meticulously crafted, delivering an atmosphere that's more immersive than your best friend's Netflix binge-watching session. And guess what? The Switch version handles this visual feast without breaking a sweat-smooth transitions and no frame drops. Taking the game on the go won't rob you of that beautiful experience, though let's be real: it may rob you of your sleep.

Conclusion

In conclusion, "The Banner Saga" on Nintendo Switch is a masterclass in storytelling that plays out in beautiful, hand-drawn graphics and engaging tactical design. Engage in combat that will test your wit, and if you find yourself bunkered down with your Switch, use it almost as an emotional support device as you inevitably make decisions you'll regret. It's a brutal beauty that basks in glory and despair. Grab your weapons, embrace your inner Viking, and prepare for a saga you won't soon forget-unless of course, you use your Switch during a meeting with your boss, in which case, you're on your own. Just remember, your decisions matter, so make sure you keep your digital Viking family safe. Your saga awaits!

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