The Banner Saga: Factions

 PC
User Score
8.0

Generally favorable reviews- based on 115 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 85 out of 115
  2. Mixed: 13 out of 115
  3. Negative: 17 out of 115

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  1. flickerdart
    Feb 27, 2013
    8
    There are many reasons to recommend The Banner Saga: the visuals are absolutely gorgeous, the gameplay is incredibly innovative and puts a big fat X through the standard turn-based tactics strategy of focus-firing on enemy units, the great variety of units and customization options creates many viable strategies, a variety of battle maps forces people to adapt to unpredictable situations,There are many reasons to recommend The Banner Saga: the visuals are absolutely gorgeous, the gameplay is incredibly innovative and puts a big fat X through the standard turn-based tactics strategy of focus-firing on enemy units, the great variety of units and customization options creates many viable strategies, a variety of battle maps forces people to adapt to unpredictable situations, and the developers keenly listen to the community and respond to issues with bugs and unit balance. Also, hey, it's free (there is a cash shop, but it doesn't give you any options that you can't get by playing normally for a few days).

    However, the game only recently came out of beta, and still hasn't gotten its sea legs. Bugs range from high latency (resulting in longer wait between your moves) to hanging battles (the final unit failing to register as dead, trapping players one step short of claiming their Renown reward for the fight) to failing to sync up with the other player at the start of the match and not even allowing you to place your units. These issues will be fixed soon, I'm sure, and don't detract much from the enjoyment of the game, but you will probably run into at least one of them if you grab this game in the immediate future.    … Expand
  2. Dyskrasia
    Feb 27, 2013
    10
    The detail and work that was put into this game is amazing. If you enjoy tactical, turn-based multiplayer combat with stunning art then give it a try.
  3. GreenDread
    Feb 27, 2013
    10
    Really one of the most deep and beautiful games I've ever played. And this is just the side-project of the actual single.player game. This is one of these board-games that would take too much calculating, when they were actually played as board games. This is a computer-assisted mix of chess, Magic the Gathering and D&D. Only minus is that the game really suffers from the flood of playersReally one of the most deep and beautiful games I've ever played. And this is just the side-project of the actual single.player game. This is one of these board-games that would take too much calculating, when they were actually played as board games. This is a computer-assisted mix of chess, Magic the Gathering and D&D. Only minus is that the game really suffers from the flood of players right now. But this will surely be solved by the awesome Team of Stoic. So still full 10 Points.… Expand
  4. Pimpollo
    Feb 27, 2013
    10
    The combat is an abyss of options. The surface ripples with each move, creating new problems, new possibilities, new thoughts. Take a dive into the abyss!
  5. Gynnemo
    Feb 27, 2013
    10
    This game is wonderful! It's obviously crafted with love. I wouldn't even say that's it's hard on beginners, with the new matchmaking-function in place. For anyone who enjoys strategy and beauty!
  6. raven2134
    Feb 28, 2013
    10
    Unique and a game that has it's own way. Don't come to the game looking for Final Fantasy Tactics, instead you'll find a game different, delightful and wondrous in it's own right. For such a seemingly simple concept, the game has very deep gameplay, awesome art, and has so much potential with many things planned still for it. Definitely one of the best turn based strategies of all time!
  7. RobertTheScott
    Feb 27, 2013
    10
    Beautiful game; deep, thoughtful tactics based on the premise that strength is health AND damage. This is the most fun I've had with competitive multiplayer games, bar none.

    Does have some network issues (at least so far--it is in its first week of existence.)
  8. YeIIow
    Feb 28, 2013
    8
    This game is impressive, the art work is just stunning and magnificent, i am not exactly a big fan of turn based games, but to hell with it, i just felt in love with this one! "A must give it a try game"
  9. MSTheiler
    Feb 27, 2013
    10
    The combat in this team based 1v1 combat multiplayer game is unique. It is deep and offers many opportunities for advanced tactics.

    It is a beautiful and the so far the community has been friendly and helpful. I am addicted ti the combat'd depth.
  10. JonWatts
    Feb 28, 2013
    10
    Very few games grab me the way Factions has. Usually I'm more of an RTS/FPS guy, but this game keeps my brain churning even during moments of calm. I've had my heart in my throat on more than one occasion, which brings back memories of PvP in EVE-Online.

    I'm not terribly experienced with turn-based games, though I have dabbled in Chess and Go. The gameplay here is more reminiscent of    Very few games grab me the way Factions has. Usually I'm more of an RTS/FPS guy, but this game keeps my brain churning even during moments of calm. I've had my heart in my throat on more than one occasion, which brings back memories of PvP in EVE-Online.

    I'm not terribly experienced with turn-based games, though I have dabbled in Chess and Go. The gameplay here is more reminiscent of Dofus/Wakfu, but I feel like Factions presents itself as a more mature and balanced affair.
    And though your accuracy might sometimes throw a wrench in your strategy, it's nowhere near as annoying as RNG pvp in mmorpg's. For instance; you can opt for a guaranteed hit on your target's armor if the chance to hit their health pool is too low, or wait your turn out to build a point in that unit's Willpower (a bonus point you can allocate to bolster your offence for 1 turn).

    As for how the game looks? I'm thoroughly impressed by the way they handled the art style. I'm sure this might be down to taste, but as far as cartoonish styles go; this one has a pretty realistic foundation.

    If there's anything I'd lower the score for it would be the current lag issues, but the devs are on top of it, adding more capacity as fast as they can. During the mornings the game is smooth, but might start having odd timeouts as more people log on. Even though the game is free, if you're on the fence on whether you should spend time on it, you might want to wait a few days in case lag is a deal-breaker for you!

    Still, the game deserves a 10. It's bound to be one of the classics of this genre.    … Expand
  11. Caste
    Feb 28, 2013
    10
    I just finished playing my 4th game. On a MAC.
    The game feels great, consistent, addictive and visually gorgeous. No server issues or problems mentioned by other users.
    If you like tactic games, stop reading and get it now!
  12. Chaille
    Feb 28, 2013
    10
    STUNNING. The amount of detail, both in the art and the incredibly complex gameplay are astounding. I am intimidated by strategy games, but this is more fun than anything I have played in a very long time. I love playing with my low-level army as much as my army full of special abilities. The music is delicious. Oh yeah...and it's free. Play the game. See you on the battlefield.
  13. BLITZ
    Feb 28, 2013
    9
    The visuals are gorgeous and it makes you feel like you are looking at moving pictures from an ancient viking picture book. If you are a fan of turn based strategy games then this game is for you!
  14. chicken_makhani
    Feb 28, 2013
    9
    The graphics are neat and polished and I admire the game's sound-design.
    The combat-system ist simple but brilliant. Over all a very good and surprisingly addictive game!
  15. BillyBobBeavis
    Aug 27, 2013
    10
    Don't pay attention to any negative reviews about this game. If you like turn based combat you're almost guaranteed to like it. The music is cool. The graphics are cool. Give it a try. And don't be a wuss and give it negative reviews because you couldn't understand the strategy and got your ass kicked. It is NOT in any way "pay to win."
  16. HotButter
    Mar 3, 2013
    10
    Amazing game! Fantastic graphics! The perfect turn-bases tactical game. Runs smooth on my old mac-book pro meaning i can be in-my-underpants-lazy in the bed and still play, which as we all know is the bomb!
  17. Alejandro_Mack
    Feb 28, 2013
    8
    I haven't seen a combat system quite like it, the combat is focused and interesting enough to keep the fights interesting to the bitter end. There's a great emphasis on your choices reflecting on how well/poor the battle goes.

    The drawback is that it appears the servers aren't coping with the demand for the game. It's a known issue and the developers are working on it but it will no    I haven't seen a combat system quite like it, the combat is focused and interesting enough to keep the fights interesting to the bitter end. There's a great emphasis on your choices reflecting on how well/poor the battle goes.

    The drawback is that it appears the servers aren't coping with the demand for the game. It's a known issue and the developers are working on it but it will no doubt frustrate the new comer.

    That asides, what I have seen of the combat mechanics combined with what has been promised in the future, I'll be looking forward to experiencing the game in it's entirety on it's release later this year.    … Expand
  18. SlimsyPlatypus
    Feb 27, 2013
    10
    This game is leagues beyond anything I'm aware that exists. Stoic has evolved the turn based strategy genre and added a tactical depth that is beyond addicting. To boot, the art style used in the game is absolutely amazing. Be prepared to gasp as you explore the game because everything you see in-game looks like you could hang it in a gallery. If the artwork can be called graphics, itThis game is leagues beyond anything I'm aware that exists. Stoic has evolved the turn based strategy genre and added a tactical depth that is beyond addicting. To boot, the art style used in the game is absolutely amazing. Be prepared to gasp as you explore the game because everything you see in-game looks like you could hang it in a gallery. If the artwork can be called graphics, it has raised the bar for the gaming industry in it's entirety. Don't mistake this game as the next indie throwback, because Stoic Studeo's first release is on par to outpace the market titans.… Expand
  19. simon280586
    Feb 28, 2013
    10
    An incredibly deep, beautiful and engaging game, made by a small team whose passion for what they are doing is obvious. A hand-crafted art style, a fresh take on turn-based combat mechanics packed with clever ideas, and a clear commitment to strategic depth makes this a real gem. I am also looking forward to the single player game, which I have high hopes for given the atmosphere of theAn incredibly deep, beautiful and engaging game, made by a small team whose passion for what they are doing is obvious. A hand-crafted art style, a fresh take on turn-based combat mechanics packed with clever ideas, and a clear commitment to strategic depth makes this a real gem. I am also looking forward to the single player game, which I have high hopes for given the atmosphere of the introductory video and launch trailer.

    Factions is free, and while it includes micro-transactions, from my experience these are in no way necessary to make good progress, in part due to a matchmaking system that pairs you with players who have made similar progress. The items you can buy are solely there for time-saving or cosmetic purposes.    … Expand
  20. Esett
    Apr 17, 2013
    10
    This title is amazing. BUT it does not seem like it when you first try it. I backed it on Kickstarter at the time just based on the beautiful graphics. When i got in the beta i HATED the combat. I just could not wrap my head around the concepts. However, one fine Sunday, while i was in a relaxed mood i tried the game again. Since it was free and all. And i was hooked. Once you understandThis title is amazing. BUT it does not seem like it when you first try it. I backed it on Kickstarter at the time just based on the beautiful graphics. When i got in the beta i HATED the combat. I just could not wrap my head around the concepts. However, one fine Sunday, while i was in a relaxed mood i tried the game again. Since it was free and all. And i was hooked. Once you understand the basic concepts, the game starts to make sense. And the more you play it the more you realise its depth. This is the type of game you can play for a lifetime and not master. That in itself is a gargantuan achievement from Stoic. To understand why you need to play it think about this one other game that does this. Chess. It has been played for centuries now and it still fascinating. That's the punchline. This game is as good if not better than chess. And its just the multyplayer part of it. For free.… Expand
  21. Dwalk27
    Mar 3, 2013
    9
    The only downside to this game is the server issues, which you may have already guessed from the angry reviews going up. These people need to relax and realise this is not a AAA title supported by a 100 million dollar conglomerate, it's a beautiful piece of work that was created to bring unique enjoyment to the player, whilst also making a bit of cash for a few people's hard work. The factThe only downside to this game is the server issues, which you may have already guessed from the angry reviews going up. These people need to relax and realise this is not a AAA title supported by a 100 million dollar conglomerate, it's a beautiful piece of work that was created to bring unique enjoyment to the player, whilst also making a bit of cash for a few people's hard work. The fact a game of this level can find so much support and make it this far without the need of meddling middle management is testimony to how fertile the future of PC gaming is.… Expand
  22. pazmacats
    Mar 21, 2013
    10
    TBS? I have played them all. Banner Saga is one of the best titles on the market and ever created. Although the rules are rather simple (just like chess) It takes a while to learn (or become good at). Once you know what you are doing, every game presents challenging strategical decisions, in every single turn.
    The game is multiplayer, so don't expect to win every game. This is a must-have    TBS? I have played them all. Banner Saga is one of the best titles on the market and ever created. Although the rules are rather simple (just like chess) It takes a while to learn (or become good at). Once you know what you are doing, every game presents challenging strategical decisions, in every single turn.
    The game is multiplayer, so don't expect to win every game. This is a must-have for anyone enjoying thinking (and hitting stuff with big ass axes).    … Expand
  23. Khitchary
    Mar 5, 2013
    9
    This is a tactical turn based rpg. Your squad is vikings. According to Metacritic I have to keep talking, but tbh thats all there is Turn based tactical combat.
  24. winfestors
    Mar 4, 2013
    10
    Great Game. Not many multiplayer games use this level of strategy anymore. Very easy to get renown points so the store doesn't matter at all. If you like turn based strategy I would recommend trying it out.
  25. SherlockHolmess
    Mar 1, 2015
    9
    Great game, great stoy, great chars, great soundtrack, great drawings, long duration, high replay value, great battlesystem, great journey system.
    Overall one of the best Games i've seen in the past decade.
  26. Larux18
    Mar 3, 2013
    8
    When this game came out on Steam it took me completely by surprise, after viewing some screenshots and realizing it was a turn-based strategy game I did not hesitate to download it and I can say I did not regret it. The first thing you see is a beautiful drawn cutscene showcasing the awesome art-style, then you reach a city and go through a good tutorial that will help you get started. YouWhen this game came out on Steam it took me completely by surprise, after viewing some screenshots and realizing it was a turn-based strategy game I did not hesitate to download it and I can say I did not regret it. The first thing you see is a beautiful drawn cutscene showcasing the awesome art-style, then you reach a city and go through a good tutorial that will help you get started. You are required to play multiplayer, which I was expecting from a free game on Steam. The matchmaking system is excellent, you are matchmade with people that have equal or extremely similar stats so the battles aren't unfair. You would think that the flow of the battles on multiplayer is slow, however, it seemed to be about right with every move having a time limit. You can also make a formation for your troops before the game starts, which can actually be the difference between victory and defeat. Combat is a little more complicated though, there is an armour stat and a life stat that you can attack, attacking the life stat would seem smarter, however, the more you attack the life stat the less damage you are able to deal in future turns. The combat can be a little misleading but that is a minor complain. After the battles you can join tournaments if you have enough experience, recruit new troops, level them up, and much more. My second and last complain is about the difficulty curve, it seems a little high when you start playing since leveling up costs renown (the currency) and renown is earned very slowly. After playing this game for a good while all I can say is that I absolutely recommend it, it doesn't take much space and it will deliver countless hours on satisfaction.… Expand
  27. Blankin
    Mar 4, 2013
    10
    To those who enjoy the genre, this game will be an incredible delight.
    There's beautiful art, and the flowing of the battles is awesome, everything can change pretty quick..
    The system of Force/Armor is quite different, i really appreciate it. It forces you to make decisions that will seriously affect the end of a match. The different classes and skills are a plus. Ignore them and you    To those who enjoy the genre, this game will be an incredible delight.
    There's beautiful art, and the flowing of the battles is awesome, everything can change pretty quick..
    The system of Force/Armor is quite different, i really appreciate it. It forces you to make decisions that will seriously affect the end of a match.
    The different classes and skills are a plus. Ignore them and you are seriously in risk of getting smashed. Just defeated an enemy with the same troops as me because i kept my men in a shield wall, increasing their armor with the skill of two of my man, and let my archers loose from the beginning, distracting some of his troops long enough that my shield wall made a bloody work out of the doomed warriors and archers who faced it without backup.    … Expand
  28. masterblaster74
    Mar 11, 2013
    8
    I read complaints about server issues, but I downloaded the game and played 6 hours straight with no issues. This is a great turn-based strategy game. Its FTP, but does not appear to be pay to win because the servers do a pretty good job of matching you with opponents of equal team value. Paying money only provides you with higher level toons, but won't necessarily give you an advantageI read complaints about server issues, but I downloaded the game and played 6 hours straight with no issues. This is a great turn-based strategy game. Its FTP, but does not appear to be pay to win because the servers do a pretty good job of matching you with opponents of equal team value. Paying money only provides you with higher level toons, but won't necessarily give you an advantage over your opponents. Leveling up your team and other game perks require renown. The more you win, and the faster you play (Expert Mode) the more renown you gain, so leveling up your team is not too difficult. There are frequent tournaments, but I haven't entered any of those yet. Lots of talk about the graphics, but really I'm not too impressed. Sure its done in a classic handmade illustration style, but it just doesnt do much for me. My only serious complaint is that some of the class stats and abilities seem a bit unbalanced. However I'm sure this can be easily tweaked if it becomes a game breaking issue meaning all the tournament players end up using the same 2 or 3 cookie cutter teams. This is one of those classic 'easy to learn but difficult to master' type of games. Give it try. It's free, and if you enjoy chess-like strategy then you'll probably enjoy this game.… Expand
  29. Dane_Conway
    Mar 3, 2013
    10
    What an amazing game! The art style is out of this world good. Hand Drawn, good music, and solid gameplay are what set this apart from other titles.

    I can not wait for the Singleplayer campaigns to come out. This is one warleader who will stand ready
  30. level5dwarf
    Mar 24, 2013
    10
    This is the best turn based tactical game i've played since final fantasy tactics. A very intriguing & in-depth combat system. Best of all, it is free and it isn't play to win due to how it matches you against teams that are your same level. They've achieved a well done balance that i've never before seen in a F2P game.

    I saw another low scored review mentioned server issues. I    This is the best turn based tactical game i've played since final fantasy tactics. A very intriguing & in-depth combat system. Best of all, it is free and it isn't play to win due to how it matches you against teams that are your same level. They've achieved a well done balance that i've never before seen in a F2P game.

    I saw another low scored review mentioned server issues. I haven't seen any yet myself.    … Expand
  31. chasis
    Apr 2, 2013
    10
    The Banner Saga is one of the most unique phenomena in the PC gaming market today. Being a unique creation, it manages to maintain its familiarity at a necessarily high level so that it does not cause estrangement of the player. In a nutshell, it is classic strategy gaming in the form of an ultimate mix of 2D graphics, beautiful art direction inspired by old-school cartoons and theThe Banner Saga is one of the most unique phenomena in the PC gaming market today. Being a unique creation, it manages to maintain its familiarity at a necessarily high level so that it does not cause estrangement of the player. In a nutshell, it is classic strategy gaming in the form of an ultimate mix of 2D graphics, beautiful art direction inspired by old-school cartoons and the fantastic work of Eyvind Earle (look it up if you don't know it), turn-based gameplay and team-based tactics with extremely sharp difficulty. Here, each decision can save your life or bring your defeat. Matches are kept at an easily digestible length of 10-20 minutes and each player has a 6-unit team at his or her disposal. Units need to be chosen wisely and if you fail to use the given unit's powers appropriately, the enemy will and your warriors will die quickly. Each match brings you renown (the “experience” with which you upgrade your units) and although this game is F2P, the paying player has no advantage here, apart from faster unit progression. Simply put, this may not be your type of game, but if like cerebral exercise and you're into TBS and PVP which makes you sweat like a pig despite the game's slow pace, you'll get hooked instantly. The game is still in pretty early stages, so it is expected that it will get better soon. Besides, it can possibly be a great preparation for the campaign-based single player The Banner Saga, which is to be released in the future.… Expand
  32. Dredzy
    Apr 13, 2013
    10
    In the long run, this portion of The Banner Saga will appeal mainly to those who enjoy the tactical depth and pace of chess (albeit a timed game). Graphics are great for a couple of reasons: stylistically it's a beautiful homage to the old school animations of the 60's and 70's Disney stuff. Because of this style, I'm able to easily play it on my piece of crap computer with no discernibleIn the long run, this portion of The Banner Saga will appeal mainly to those who enjoy the tactical depth and pace of chess (albeit a timed game). Graphics are great for a couple of reasons: stylistically it's a beautiful homage to the old school animations of the 60's and 70's Disney stuff. Because of this style, I'm able to easily play it on my piece of crap computer with no discernible performance issues.
    My concerns about it being an f2p game were quickly taken care of when I realized that purchasing anything from their market will allow you to have higher level teams but it won't give you the skill to play your team. It would actually be convenient if you were an experienced player who simply wanted to double up on a particular unit without having to grind. Mainly you are paying for a convenience. It is not pay to win. Also, you can cheaply purchase different color schemes for your units.

    I am already firmly addicted to this game. It's been many years since I enjoyed a tactical game as much as I do Banner Saga: Factions. It is going to be a niche game, but I get the impression that Stoic Studio is ok with that. And so am I.    … Expand

Critic Reviews

All reviews »
Metascore
67

Mixed or average reviews - based on 5 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 1 out of 5
  2. Mixed: 4 out of 5
  3. Negative: 0 out of 5
  1. CD-Action
    May 13, 2013
    60
    Factions is a teaser of a bigger game and does a rather lousy job at encouraging to check out the main dish. It’s simply boring. [CD-Action 06/2013, p.81]
  2. Thunderbolt
    Apr 15, 2013
    60
    The Banner Saga: Factions’ slower pace and current lack of class variety will be enough to discourage many from trying this particular brand of turn-based strategy. But those who can look past these flaws will find a somewhat deep combat system that necessitates tactical awareness and forethought, and a rewarding experience for those who invest the time needed to learn its intricacies.
    Read full review
  3. PC Gamer
    Apr 1, 2013
    59
    An accomplished and pretty strategy game, sadly hindered by a handful of questionable design choices.
    Read full review
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