Chains of Freedom

Not all Xcom-like games have to be the same, as shown by Chains of Freedom, a post-apocalyptic strategy game with a strong focus on story. It's a shame that the second half of the game is weaker.

Chains of Freedom is a turn-based strategy with action elements and simplified tactical management that sits somewhere between XCOM and Jagged Alliance, while renouncing elements such as targeted headshots, stance and reaction fire. Alien crystals to equip offer variety, customization and a touch of build strategy. Missions are linear but packed with optional areas, and the post-apocalyptic aesthetic feels polished, believable and well-directed. Suitable for those seeking accessible combat with near-infinite resurrection options, less for purists who demand depth and control of every action point.

Chains of Freedom ironically misses the mark where it’s most ambitious: In telling a deeply political and nuanced story with layered and mature characters. While the military drama unfolds a little too predictably, the solid tactical turn-based battles more than make up for it. While unlikely to blow anyone’s mind, this is solid across the board and has some very fun customization options for your playable characters to find your unique playstyle.

If there’s a criticism to be made, it’s that Chains of Freedom leaves little room for error. It’s very difficult to pull back from an encounter if the ambush it set up wrong. Or getting caught while sneaking which results in every enemy in the encounter opening fire while your team stands in the open. This is an issue because poor planning almost always results in a restart instead of a difficult fight. Still, for fans of tactical strategy games with survival elements, Chains of Freedom is a compelling and thoughtful experience. It succeeds creating encounters that give players a sense of pride when finishing them with casualties. It also succeeds in making players think about resources and whether they’re worth the reward. It certainly succeeded in keeping me hooked throughout the whole journey.

Chains of Freedom combines Classic mechanic for turn-based tactical with a solid story to delivers a pleasant game.

This isn’t the game that revolutionizes the genre, but it’s that kind of indie title that could entertain you for the hours needed to complete the main story. Frankly, I had hoped it would be much more, but overall I had fun, and it works well—especially if you lower your expectations a bit. A decent indie that does its job and is worth considering if you enjoy tactical games.

Nordcurrent’s Chains of Freedom isn’t an outstanding turn-based tactics game for me, but some of its core systems are genuinely good and – depending on your personal tastes – it might be one you will greatly enjoy.

Chains of Freedom is a turn-based action game with incredible art and good storytelling, but its gameplay may be too familiar, missing opportunities to make its combat more exciting or original.

The main problem with Chains of Freedom is that it never stakes its own claim. It doesn’t carve out territory that feels unique and often feels more like an imitator of other games than something with its own personality. While the core mechanics are largely serviceable, without a unique angle, there are far greater entries in the turn-based tactics genre to spend your time with. Ultimately, the predictable narrative delivered by dull characters and the repetitive combat make this a difficult recommendation for all but the most die-hard fans of the genre.

Aggressively average and ultimately forgettable, Chains of Freedom is neither bad nor good, it just is.

Quotation forthcoming.

The sins of Chains of Freedom are on a completely different plane: its ending is not a reward, but a long-awaited release from the monotony of life. And the further you progress, the more tedious and lengthy the endless battles become.