The Bard's Tale

 PlayStation 2
User Score
7.9

Generally favorable reviews- based on 25 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 17 out of 25
  2. Mixed: 5 out of 25
  3. Negative: 3 out of 25
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  1. Rox22
    Nov 8, 2013
    7
    Granted this game simply rehashes a tried-and-true hack-n-slash formula that was already done to death at the time, it's still allot of fun. While the gameplay might have been a little stale, the narrative and the general idea behind it are top notch. An RPG that seriously makes fun of RPGs to the highest degree. I also love how they are constantly breaking the fourth wall, the humor isGranted this game simply rehashes a tried-and-true hack-n-slash formula that was already done to death at the time, it's still allot of fun. While the gameplay might have been a little stale, the narrative and the general idea behind it are top notch. An RPG that seriously makes fun of RPGs to the highest degree. I also love how they are constantly breaking the fourth wall, the humor is just brilliant.

    Overall:
    The Bard's Tale may not have the most interesting gameplay, but the characters, writing and general wit will keep you playing. A fun different kind of RPG.    … Expand
  2. VLG
    Aug 22, 2023
    7
    The story is pretty good, and the humor is fantastic, but the game, in general, is very generic. I got bored at some point i guess, because i dont remember beating it. I was probably too young.

Awards & Rankings

75
#75 Best PS2 Game of 2004
39
#39 Most Shared PS2 Game of 2004

Critic Reviews

All reviews »
Metascore
76

Generally favorable reviews - based on 44 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 28 out of 44
  2. Mixed: 15 out of 44
  3. Negative: 1 out of 44
  1. DailyGame
    77
    Like a really good comedy film, probably best suited as a rental.
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  2. Official U.S. Playstation Magazine
    90
    Doesn't do anything particularly original, but that's not really the point. The point is the content, the script, and the wit, and in these areas it excels. [Nov 2004, p.118]
    Read full review
  3. Game Informer
    83
    Though sub-par action and cheap deaths are endemic to the Bard's quest, this title made me feel like I was taking part in a real fantasy adventure teh way few others have over the years. [Dec 2004, p.167]
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