Fire Emblem: Three Houses

 Switch
User Score
8.8

Generally favorable reviews- based on 2891 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 2,540 out of 2891
  2. Mixed: 124 out of 2891
  3. Negative: 227 out of 2891
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  1. SainxtrichX
    Jun 12, 2021
    10
    One of the best Fire Emblem to date, comparisons with PERSON 5 are obvious but that only flaunts the quality of this game.
    Recommended for all who start in this saga for its flexible difficulty levels and for veterans of the saga like me its hard mode does not deseprate at all.
  2. Pax_Ag
    Jul 27, 2019
    10
    I loved how the game constantly keeps you doing so many things, that you end up knowing every corner of the map
  3. powell106
    Jul 28, 2019
    9
    There seems to be a lot of low reviews for this as people are annoyed others are giving it ten. To each their own! But its a great game with a lot of good battle mechanics and a hell of a story!
  4. AUMDragon
    Jul 27, 2019
    10
    An absolute beautiful masterpiece of a game, so much hate from the kids with no attention span. There isn't much I could say negative about this game it's perfect as a tactical rpg/ rpg! Being fully honest I may give this game a 9 due to some minor resolution/ visual and frame rate issues, but the graphics are really good, no it's not another open world game, boo hoo! Still I give it a 10An absolute beautiful masterpiece of a game, so much hate from the kids with no attention span. There isn't much I could say negative about this game it's perfect as a tactical rpg/ rpg! Being fully honest I may give this game a 9 due to some minor resolution/ visual and frame rate issues, but the graphics are really good, no it's not another open world game, boo hoo! Still I give it a 10 to balance all the undeserved 0s seriously people, must be special! Again this is a deserved masterpiece a work of art.… Expand
  5. PabloDesigns
    Jul 27, 2019
    10
    This is one of the best Fire Emblem games I've played in a while.
    First of all, all the guys judging the story... UGH. WHY ARE YOU CRITICIZING THE STORY OF AN 80 HOURS LONG GAME WHEN YOU HAVE PLAYED 10 OR EVEN LESS. All of you who have been saying things like "uhhm I miss radiant dawn era when the story was about the cruelty of the war and..." OH BOY, THIS GAME (specially after 30-40    This is one of the best Fire Emblem games I've played in a while.
    First of all, all the guys judging the story... UGH. WHY ARE YOU CRITICIZING THE STORY OF AN 80 HOURS LONG GAME WHEN YOU HAVE PLAYED 10 OR EVEN LESS. All of you who have been saying things like "uhhm I miss radiant dawn era when the story was about the cruelty of the war and..." OH BOY, THIS GAME (specially after 30-40 hours in) IS MORE MATURE THAN HALF OF THE GAMES IN THE SAGA. Incluiding your f***ing radiant dawn. I would mention why but, oops, spoilers.
    I'm not gonna judge you if you don't like the dating system, how the game plays in the monastery, the "anime" visuals or how the UI is managed, because those are things that each person will like more or less, but that's not a reason to give it a zero.    … Expand
  6. ChadTyler
    Jun 5, 2020
    9
    Great game but way too easy. Hopefully they’ll update the difficulty options soon.

    Edit: Well maddening is definitely hard, guess I'll update my review.
  7. nausx
    Jul 26, 2019
    10
    Amazing game. I've been waiting to see what this game could offer, especially on the nintendo switch and I have to say that it did not disappoint me at all. The soundtrack is phenomenal, I used to listen to FE Echoe's ost religiously but boy was I not ready for TH's soundtrack. The writing seems to be alot better than fate's and I definitely enjoyed TH a lot more than awakening and echoes.Amazing game. I've been waiting to see what this game could offer, especially on the nintendo switch and I have to say that it did not disappoint me at all. The soundtrack is phenomenal, I used to listen to FE Echoe's ost religiously but boy was I not ready for TH's soundtrack. The writing seems to be alot better than fate's and I definitely enjoyed TH a lot more than awakening and echoes. Of course there's alot that can be improved on but for me, this is easily my top fire emblem game so far. Personally, I really enjoyed this game and I hope others will too. My favourite switch game so far.

    For those who didn't like the new changes to fire emblem/want to go back to the tellius series, you have to agree that awakening made the series more popular than it already was. Awakening wasn't the best fire emblem I played too, but I didn't mind trying the new features and gave it a go instead of whinging. Plus if you viewed it less as some weeaboo waifu bs and more as Support dialogues (which past games had too) it wouldn't be too bad. Having houses/school life/magic =/= harry potter btw    … Expand
  8. Gamingking007
    Jul 26, 2019
    10
    Perfection. The people who give this game any less than a 9 is a complete moron especially if all the critics can't see the epicness fantasy in this masterpiece !
  9. Pandaboy5k
    Jul 26, 2019
    10
    Really great game! I can’t believe how well they’ve been able to work the story and gameplay together. The series is definitely on the uptick and this game hopefully will be one of many to come on the Nintendo Switch! Everything is just so well done. All the way down to the minor details. The relationships you can establish is just amazing!
  10. whdgns464
    Jul 26, 2019
    10
    I am not a big fan of SRPG games. I also wasnt familiar with FE series. However I decided to try this one because everyone around me was hyped and i wanted to find out what this game really is. Turned out....this game was master piece. The most important thing is this game is super addictive!!!! Characters, game mechanics, music, artworks, story ...everything is so harmonious. Just stopI am not a big fan of SRPG games. I also wasnt familiar with FE series. However I decided to try this one because everyone around me was hyped and i wanted to find out what this game really is. Turned out....this game was master piece. The most important thing is this game is super addictive!!!! Characters, game mechanics, music, artworks, story ...everything is so harmonious. Just stop hesitating! Go get this title… Expand
  11. UnionJack0714
    Jul 26, 2019
    10
    This is my first FE game. Going into this I wasn't expecting much... but man was I wrong. This is the perfect tactical strategy game, I've been playing for 8 hours straight and I am seriously impressed with how well the gameplay mechanics work, how well written and developed the characters are, how harmonious yet chaotic the music is and even how well it is visually which to be honest IThis is my first FE game. Going into this I wasn't expecting much... but man was I wrong. This is the perfect tactical strategy game, I've been playing for 8 hours straight and I am seriously impressed with how well the gameplay mechanics work, how well written and developed the characters are, how harmonious yet chaotic the music is and even how well it is visually which to be honest I was worried about. There are even Persona inspired elements to it which I love. I'm 8 hours in, and I loving every moment of it. The fact that there are three choices scares me as I could be playing this for 100s of hours. Get this as soon as possible, its a Switch must own title. 10/10… Expand
  12. mattyjjenkins
    Jul 26, 2019
    9
    Ive loved FireEmblem for years now, long before IntelligentSystems brought it to the west. This is definitely a return to form for the series! And Im so glad its hit home consoles again! Not gunna go in to it too much but after seeing a few super negative comments and reviews I had to step in and say don't believe them, buy this game, buy it now!
  13. LiviuMisty29
    Nov 1, 2019
    10
    I am 8 hours (about 3 chapters ) in and the game is fantastic from presentation,music, characters, content, gameplay and even story or lore for as much as I was able to get from them so far. Gameplay wise I am so happy to see that the mechanics are simple as long as you understand what combat arts and battalions are - no buffs and debuffs, no stupid weapon drawbacks like in Fates, overallI am 8 hours (about 3 chapters ) in and the game is fantastic from presentation,music, characters, content, gameplay and even story or lore for as much as I was able to get from them so far. Gameplay wise I am so happy to see that the mechanics are simple as long as you understand what combat arts and battalions are - no buffs and debuffs, no stupid weapon drawbacks like in Fates, overall no weird gimmicks. I love the different activities that you can do in order to make your characters better. For those who do not like the social aspect do not worry it is not mandatory but you will have a better experience and better units if you do them. I have to say that in 8 hours I had like 5 battles in total but I did not feel bored of doing the social activities because the social activities helped me earn money, items and of course improve my characters weapon proficiencies in order to be able to have better units in battle. I chose the Black Eagles but I love all the characters because each and any one of them is unique. I look forward to see what is going to happen later in the story and there has to be something awful happening later in order to change my opinion and give it a lower rating. Overall if you are into strategic rpgs and probably let's say you played games like persona you should definitely pick this game up.
    EDIT: I have managed to finish 2 out of the 4 routes and I did this in 270 hours I can say that the story and characters are amazing. A drawback is that you have to choose the house of these characters in order to find out more about them and also the story is split and in order to find out absolutely everything about it you have to play absolutely all of them. Luckily Claude's route gave me enough answers in order to appreciate the story a lot. I started with Edelgard's route and unfortunately that was not the best idea because there is not many answers to the important questions that are being addressed. I recommend starting with Claude's route for the first playthrough because it will hook you in order to find out even more on the other routes. Overall I will keep the score that I gave this game initially because it exceeded all my expectations. Happy gaming :).    … Expand
  14. jmstreya
    Jul 26, 2019
    10
    This is the best fire emblem ever...the botw fire emblem!! Intelligent systems has made a huge work!
  15. seaprot1
    Jul 26, 2019
    10
    Perfect game, it's a must buy on Switch the same way as Zelda BoTW and Mario Odyssey
  16. Rhein
    Aug 30, 2019
    10
    Love this game so much, I just finish the Black Eagles and Church Route, now I am on Golden Deer. This game is so precious and awesome. It has been the first time I put some 150+ hours in a game in a long time and love every seconds of it, AND seems like I still have another 100hrs to do haha. The story telling is wonderful, this game makes you attach to the characters so well. WordsLove this game so much, I just finish the Black Eagles and Church Route, now I am on Golden Deer. This game is so precious and awesome. It has been the first time I put some 150+ hours in a game in a long time and love every seconds of it, AND seems like I still have another 100hrs to do haha. The story telling is wonderful, this game makes you attach to the characters so well. Words aren't enough to describe how addicted I am to this. Definitely GOTY contender for me. Hopefully, FE series would continue with this calibre in the future.… Expand
  17. Skyblue93
    Aug 28, 2019
    7
    I was apprehensive about this game at first but man they did a great job making stats fun. Basically incorporating fun charming gameplay elements to mundane rpg mechanics. The English voice acting is top notch. Just downright fantastic. The music is great too.

    One major con. The graphics are very ugly and the performance is not stable.
  18. bonsai
    Jul 29, 2019
    9
    UPDATE after 25 hours in.
    The game is a mix of chess, RPG elements and anime drama.
    I'm enjoying everything so far, and even if i hate weeb culture i find the characters fun. I'm playing in hard mode and the difficulty is literally perfect, even side missions are a challenge and you need to evaluate every move. This is the only game since Botw that hooked me, once a start playing it's    UPDATE after 25 hours in.
    The game is a mix of chess, RPG elements and anime drama.
    I'm enjoying everything so far, and even if i hate weeb culture i find the characters fun.
    I'm playing in hard mode and the difficulty is literally perfect, even side missions are a challenge and you need to evaluate every move.
    This is the only game since Botw that hooked me, once a start playing it's hard to stop, it gives you a ton of different things to do, resulting in an experience that will hardly bore the player.
    Overall i'l give this a 9, for me a 10 is only for masterpieces and perfect games and this is not one, but i could change my mind once i finish it.    … Expand
  19. Larien
    Jul 26, 2019
    5
    I was waiting a fire emblem, a tactical game not a simulator/rpg, the animations ist i was expected dont looks so smoth, the videos are in 20/30 fps, i was expecting more.
  20. seaprot
    Jul 26, 2019
    10
    Fantastic game, one of the best entrance in the Fire Emblem series. Great music, amazing story telling and voice acting, nice character development. A must buy on Switch for people who like strategic games
  21. Nelszack5
    Jul 26, 2019
    10
    This games has what some would say a slow start but in the second part it is phenomenal
  22. Germaniumer
    Jul 26, 2019
    1
    Graphics and animations have progressed from those of FEs on 3DS.
    But level design,system, and UI became worse.
  23. GloriaVic
    Jul 26, 2019
    0
    It's not the best Fire Emblem, and nor is't close to being one of the best, this saga has lost every drop of its essence and original charm. I've played it for several hours and I can come to the conclusion that it's more of the same anime weaboo pandering, Fire Emblem will be Fire Emblem again when they worry about creating mature stories and stop implementing dating systems.
  24. ToshiKusakihara
    Jul 26, 2019
    0
    I only played a few hours and I have said that it has been a disappointing experience, I was sparing a better graphic performance for a Switch game, but this seems like PS2 game, and the story seems pretty boring, it doesn't hook me.
  25. SharonMeier
    Jul 26, 2019
    0
    I thought it would be a good fusion of what Tellius was on the Wii with the mechanics of handheld consoles, but the central mechanics of the game have not finished curdling for me. Previous games like Shadows of Valentia were much better, people are giving this game a very high score. I think it's a pretty deficient Fire Emblem to call it the "best."
  26. KarlitoZans
    Jul 26, 2019
    0
    It's ridiculous how they overvalue this game, it's really not that good, the story is not the best in the saga, the artstyle is poor and generic, and the gameplay is somewhat broken.
  27. AceAscendus
    Jul 26, 2019
    0
    This is not REAL Fire Emblem, it is some Harry Potter style school nonsense! Bring back Path of Radiance era Fire Emblem.
  28. MaxBreaker
    Aug 11, 2019
    10
    One of the best fire emblem game I've ever played hands down. The battle system is very simple, but has tons of depth as well. The characters are very well written and the fact that the game is fully voiced makes it better. The story is also thrilling, showing you how war can be devastating and it can get quite dark at times. However, it is still lighthearted most of the time and you willOne of the best fire emblem game I've ever played hands down. The battle system is very simple, but has tons of depth as well. The characters are very well written and the fact that the game is fully voiced makes it better. The story is also thrilling, showing you how war can be devastating and it can get quite dark at times. However, it is still lighthearted most of the time and you will enjoy it even if you're a past fire emblem fan, as well as a newcomer. All in all, this game is perfect if it's your first game, and at the same time it breathes new life in the franchise for old veterans.… Expand
  29. APlatypus
    Sep 2, 2019
    10
    Three houses is the best FE to come out since the GBA games. The emphasis is on quality storytelling and engaging combat. My only complaint is that the higher difficulty hasn't been released yet.
  30. Oceanblue315
    Nov 25, 2019
    10
    Fire Emblem Three Houses is one of the best games that I have ever played. I have been a fan of the series for a while now, and this one blows the other Fire Emblem games out of the water. This games offers a huge amount of compelling story that will take you at least 70 hours to play through. I have been playing for 85 hours now and am around 50% done with the game (I like to take my timeFire Emblem Three Houses is one of the best games that I have ever played. I have been a fan of the series for a while now, and this one blows the other Fire Emblem games out of the water. This games offers a huge amount of compelling story that will take you at least 70 hours to play through. I have been playing for 85 hours now and am around 50% done with the game (I like to take my time with games, so it takes me a lot more time to finish them). Another thing that I noticed about playing through this game is how much I wanted to come back to it. It never fatigued me or left me feeling like I had just wasted 3 hours of my day. The game keeps you coming back with masterfully designed characters, a fun and exiting battle mechanic, and a compelling story that will leave you wanting more.
    This game changes up many things when compared to the previous generation of Fire Emblem games (The entries on the 3DS), one of the biggest new additions being voice acting. Every single character speech text in the entire game is brought to life with high quality voice acting. Beyond that, character models have been greatly improved from the previous game. Where they were once pixel bit characters on the maps, they are now high-quality characters that you can zoom in on, and see them in greater detail than ever before. This helps make the maps in the game feel like actual battlefields, and gives the game an extra feeling of immersion. When you are not in battle, you can spend your time running around the monastery, visiting and interacting with the characters, shopping for weapons, cooking food, or even fishing. This is a genius Idea, and It is being utilized perfectly in this game.
    I was going to wait until I finished the whole game before reviewing it, but I decided that 70 hours was more than enough time to spend with this game to know that Fire Emblem Three Houses is an absolute masterpiece of a game, and Is a shining example of what future Fire Emblem games, and tactical RPGs in general, should strive to be like. I hope this game wins at least one award at The Game Awards in a couple of weeks because it deserves so much attention and praise. Even If it didn't get a nomination for game of the year, This is definitely my game of the year for 2019.    … Expand
  31. keanex
    Mar 21, 2023
    9
    70 hours in this game, played through Silver Snow route as a first time player. Normal/Casual mode.

    Graphics & Sound: Decent looking game and a pleasant soundtrack, though forgettable. I loved how almost every character was voice acted. 3.25/5 Story: I loved the vibe of the game, the story was good enough to keep me engaged from start to finish. While the sim stuff eventually got a    70 hours in this game, played through Silver Snow route as a first time player. Normal/Casual mode.

    Graphics & Sound: Decent looking game and a pleasant soundtrack, though forgettable. I loved how almost every character was voice acted. 3.25/5

    Story: I loved the vibe of the game, the story was good enough to keep me engaged from start to finish. While the sim stuff eventually got a bit old, I genuinely loved it at first. It was a nice way to spend time in-between battles. Some memorable moments. 3.5/5

    Technicals: No bugs noticed, framerate was a bit rough at times. Didn't hurt my enjoyment, but could have been better. 3.5/5

    Gameplay: I loved upgrading the weapons, leveling up the classes, customizing my characters, and the challenge in some fights. The difficulty had some jarring spikes though. Tons of fun, I found myself constantly going, "One more battle..." 4/5

    Replayability: Multiple routes to go through, but the first-half felt very "samey" in my second play-through and I knew how to play a lot better so it made it mindlessly easy. Unfortunately you can not adjust difficulty to be harder. 4/5

    Overall: I really loved this game in my first play-through. I have issues with the game, but the sum of everything was greater than everything individually. I whole-heartedly recommend this to new-to-tactics players, it revitalized my love for the genre. 4.25/5    … Expand
  32. Ozzybananas
    Sep 2, 2019
    10
    Do not listen to the haters... They just hate and This game is pure love.

    Do you like anime? do you like rpgs? do you like japan? do you like strategy? do you like the switch? This is the game for you!!!! Best game i've ever played... Period!! The story is deep.. from any angle. I've played 120 hours and I can't put the game down. It's that good!. Now, if your are dumb.. then you    Do not listen to the haters... They just hate and This game is pure love.

    Do you like anime? do you like rpgs? do you like japan? do you like strategy? do you like the switch? This is the game for you!!!! Best game i've ever played... Period!!

    The story is deep.. from any angle. I've played 120 hours and I can't put the game down. It's that good!.

    Now, if your are dumb.. then you won't like the game.    … Expand
  33. matthewGbunton
    Jan 27, 2023
    9
    The best SRPG I have ever played.

    Fantastic story, gameplay, music and character interactions. It's way beyond anything I have seen in video games for a long time. The art style is clean and pleasing the animations are good but could be smoother. The game play and it's depth of mechanics is where this game really shines though. The only two criticisms I have of the game are: the    The best SRPG I have ever played.

    Fantastic story, gameplay, music and character interactions. It's way beyond anything I have seen in video games for a long time. The art style is clean and pleasing the animations are good but could be smoother. The game play and it's depth of mechanics is where this game really shines though.

    The only two criticisms I have of the game are: the frame rate can often dip and they needed more battle maps. I have completed this game at least 6 times with more to follow it really is that good.    … Expand
  34. Alaamak
    Sep 10, 2019
    9
    Once again another awesome Fire emblem . They really exapanded the game on this one . The story development is interesting and the game play is just as good as ever . Yes the normal mode is very easy ( good for fist timers ) . And the music is so good I added some of its tracks to my all time favorite list . Over all the game is very nice
  35. Tbrew87
    Aug 10, 2019
    10
    An absolute joy that is hard to put down even after 50+ hours, I am gearing myself up for an inevitable second play through to get to know all the casts of characters.
  36. Leaxion
    Aug 11, 2019
    10
    Amazing game, feels like a PS2 game where you're having so much fun you actually enjoy doing side content and seeing the characters grow. Clear GOTY contestant
  37. stoophan
    Aug 12, 2019
    10
    I have never played a Fire Emblem game before, but the engrossing combat, intriguing story and fun characters meant I was hooked instantly. I finished my first play-through (Golden Deer House) in ~40hrs. My girlfriend, a relative non-gamer, was interested watching me play and started her own playthrough (Black Eagles, alt end) immediately after I finished. It took her ~35hrs (from what II have never played a Fire Emblem game before, but the engrossing combat, intriguing story and fun characters meant I was hooked instantly. I finished my first play-through (Golden Deer House) in ~40hrs. My girlfriend, a relative non-gamer, was interested watching me play and started her own playthrough (Black Eagles, alt end) immediately after I finished. It took her ~35hrs (from what I gather, Black Eagle alt ending is shorter). Overall, the graphics could use some polish as the lack of anti-aliasing and low-res textures make the overworld look like a PS2 game at times, but the gameplay is so exquisite, and the replayability and amount of content so substantial that this game cannot get less than a 10/10. Best Switch release of the year so far.… Expand
  38. Kauneo
    Aug 12, 2019
    10
    Absolutely brilliant game !
    I would recommend this to anyone who enjoys a compelling story and strategic gameplay elements.
  39. GrungleBungle
    Sep 2, 2019
    10
    This has to be my favourite FE game yet. The story is gripping no matter which route you play, the amount of replayability this game has is insane, and unlike many of the newer fe games, the characters don't feel like massive anime tropes. Overall, great game and would highly recommend.
  40. GojiLink
    Sep 2, 2019
    10
    My first FE game. Never was very interested in strategy games, but I kept hearing great things about this series. Needless to say, I’m glad I gave it a try! Fantastic game!
  41. jzillacon
    Sep 2, 2019
    10
    After 3 playthroughs already, this has become my favourite Fire Emblem game of all time. As a player that mainly wants a good story, Three Houses delivers on all fronts. The amount of worldbuilding this game has is unparalleled for a fire emblem game and the game does a genuinely good job of making you care for all of it. The characters that appear in game have actual depth and personalityAfter 3 playthroughs already, this has become my favourite Fire Emblem game of all time. As a player that mainly wants a good story, Three Houses delivers on all fronts. The amount of worldbuilding this game has is unparalleled for a fire emblem game and the game does a genuinely good job of making you care for all of it. The characters that appear in game have actual depth and personality to them and are far more than just cutouts of common tropes. There is also a lot of really good improvements on the gameplay side of things too, the quality of life changes are just astounding and they toned down many of the broken mechanics from the 3DS games so that players can actually have a fair and balanced experience. Speaking of fair and balanced, the actual maps themselves tend to be rather neutral, no ridiculous puzzle mechanics that are more annoying than interesting like certain maps in Fates notoriously had. Overall, for new and old players alike, Fire Emblem: Three Houses is well worth playing.… Expand
  42. Lifthrasil
    Dec 2, 2019
    10
    I fell in love Turnbased Strategy games wiht RPG elements with Shining Force II and was so happy when I found Fire Emblem: Awakening on the 3DS many years later. I was looking forward to Three Houses ever since I knew, that a Fire emblem was coming to the switch.

    I fell in love with this. This game also made me want to replay several times, to experience hte different parts of the    I fell in love Turnbased Strategy games wiht RPG elements with Shining Force II and was so happy when I found Fire Emblem: Awakening on the 3DS many years later. I was looking forward to Three Houses ever since I knew, that a Fire emblem was coming to the switch.

    I fell in love with this. This game also made me want to replay several times, to experience hte different parts of the story. I did get sidetracked a bit with other games, but will continue with my Black Eagle playthrough soon again.

    This game definitely should have been one of the Game of the Year nominations, as it is absolutely brilliant. All characters are well thought out, and feel like different characters.    … Expand
  43. sleshdot
    May 15, 2023
    10
    Such an amazing game, both the story and characters are great! Especially how they develop throughout the story, you really feel attached to them. One of the best rpg game I've every played.
  44. abrus
    Jan 20, 2023
    10
    Wow! What an amazingly complex game! I loved the story, the characters, the battles and all the monastery exploration! It took me 55 hours to complete my first run with the Black Eagles, and I'm seriously considering launching a fresh campaign to see how the story pans out from a different perspective. This is easily one of the best turn-based strategy games available. Fantastic!
  45. beastmodeilleri
    Sep 26, 2022
    10
    I don't even know where to begin with this. I'm absolutely in love with this game and love it more than I ever will do any woman. It's just amazing. I'm speechless.
    Smash bros really is an amazing business move as an advertiser for different games. I became interested in the Fire Emblem series when playing Smash bros, as Robin and Chrom in particular became 2 of my favorite characters in    I don't even know where to begin with this. I'm absolutely in love with this game and love it more than I ever will do any woman. It's just amazing. I'm speechless.
    Smash bros really is an amazing business move as an advertiser for different games. I became interested in the Fire Emblem series when playing Smash bros, as Robin and Chrom in particular became 2 of my favorite characters in the game. I wanted to play the game that they were featured in, but found that the installment (Awakening) only is available on the 3Ds and I didn't have access to that, but I did obviously own the Nintendo Switch, so instead of pursuing Awakening, I had no choice but to get Three Houses instead. One of the best decisions in my entire life. I watched the gameplay and it peaked my interest. Then I watched streams and read reviews that all were in favor of the game. I already had high expectations for the game and even felt a bit hyped upon getting it. However... I didn't expect something like this.

    I just **** love it. The game is pretty anime-like and the story is legendary. I won't go into why I feel like this about the story, as it would turn this already long review into a university M.D essay. The music and battle music in particular is amazing and epic. The gameplay and especially combat system is amazing. It's like chess, but way more complex. So many factors that plays into it, some examples being different abilities, crests, weapon effectiveness, stat modifiers from gambits and items, linked attacks and so much more.
    The cast individually are impressively written and complex individuals, most with backstories that fits and makes sense of their personalities and the main characters' motives. It makes them feel like alive, real world humans, hence is a big part of why you feel like a real professor with real adorable students when playing.
    The voice acting also is top-notch. I could go on and on with the positives of this game, but I actually have 1 complaint about this masterpiece.
    That being the graphics. In all honesty, the graphics and animation is terrible with today's standard. It almost looks like the game belongs to the N64.

    That being said, I have recently deep inside of me come to accept a harsh reality. The Zelda games is by far my favorite gaming franchise. It's not even close. Thus, I will always have a huge bias towards the Zelda games. Before getting this game, I thought that Breath of the Wild was the best game on the Nintendo Switch and I initially still thought so even after getting Three Houses. However, as the game slowly, but surely progressed in greatness, I started to doubt it. It was a harsh battle between the games. I would either say that they're equally good or that Breath of the Wild is slightly better. I always favored Zelda, because of what I expressed earlier, but as time went on I knew that it wasn't the case. I kept lying to myself until I couldn't take it anymore.
    Fire Emblem: Three Houses is the best game on the Nintendo Switch.

    I finally completed all of the routes recently and with 375+ hours in the bag, I figured that I was done and that I would buy the DLC later on and replay it. Nope. After a week I went ahead and started yet another playthrough. I still haven't even bought the DLC. I couldn't resist it. It's like trying to resist an extremely attractive, erection inducing woman who eventually drags you in.

    Story: 10/10
    Gameplay: 10/10
    Music: 10/10
    Cast: 10/10
    Anime: 10/10
    Chess: 10/10
    Graphics: 2/10
    Everything: 10/10
    Total: 100/10    … Expand
  46. Plumbo2000
    Jan 29, 2023
    10
    A true return to form for the franchise. The gameplay is standard FE fare but where the game really shines is in capturing the magic of the pre-Awakening game by being ambitious in its story and characters and taking its premise seriously, rather than descending into the campiness of the 3DS era.
  47. Edele
    Feb 22, 2023
    10
    I played the game in the order of Azure Moon, Verdant Wind, Silver Snow, and Crimson Flower. Although there has been some criticism towards the Crimson Flower story, I found Edelgard to be the best video game character I have ever seen.

    Edelgard is a unique character, not a simple villain or hero. Many players overlook the fact that she is also a victim of the feudal system. The tragedy    I played the game in the order of Azure Moon, Verdant Wind, Silver Snow, and Crimson Flower. Although there has been some criticism towards the Crimson Flower story, I found Edelgard to be the best video game character I have ever seen.

    Edelgard is a unique character, not a simple villain or hero. Many players overlook the fact that she is also a victim of the feudal system. The tragedy that occurs is a result of the Church's long-term rule and their use of Crests as a system. Although this may have provided surface-level peace in Fodlan, the dark side has never been eliminated. Additionally, there is no indication in the story that the Church made any attempt to eliminate "those who slither in the dark."

    Edelgard is the one who raises the flag and fights for change. Although some may argue that war brings harm, as a leader, there are some things that cannot wait and must be taken care of immediately. Why ask her to believe that time can bring about the necessary changes? The unknown future may bring about an even worse outcome. Viewing the world from her perspective, Edelgard only aimed to fulfill her noble ideals.    … Expand
  48. imalynxcat
    Apr 1, 2023
    10
    One of the best games I've ever played. Romance system is very satisfying. Combat is the best turn-based combat so far. Seeing your students' progress is also satisfying 100/100
  49. TianLong1
    Mar 31, 2023
    10
    One of my favourite Fire Emblem games, with great choice of characters for all the three houses and they all have so much depth and personality, you want to know more about every one of them, interact with them as much as possible and possibily find your romance interest. The main story is very engaging and is unique depending on the house you choose to play, so a lot of replayabilityOne of my favourite Fire Emblem games, with great choice of characters for all the three houses and they all have so much depth and personality, you want to know more about every one of them, interact with them as much as possible and possibily find your romance interest. The main story is very engaging and is unique depending on the house you choose to play, so a lot of replayability value. The gameplay and maps are well done. The story takes place in a military school with three different houses, an amazing concept which reminds of Harry Potter. I love how the artwork and the portraits of the characters overall.… Expand
  50. matharwords
    Jun 24, 2023
    10
    Very well presented story about perspective with developed lore and characters, highly recomend playing all routes
  51. Shrijan1995
    Jun 22, 2023
    10
    Fire Emblem Three Houses is an excellent video game , one of the best Nintendo Switch Exclusive Game and my favorite tactical role-playing video game i have ever played in my life. The characters with exceptional personality , the magnificent soundtrack and wonderful story of this game are the 3 best things about this game for me. It took me 27 hours to complete the game in my first play through.
  52. HydrophobikFish
    Jun 9, 2023
    9
    Top tier turn based strategy game with a huge amount of interesting and engaging characters to get to know and train up. Highly replayable.
  53. drseven
    Jul 1, 2023
    10
    My favorite Nintendo Switch game. As a lover of the genre and the saga, it seems to me a sublime game. The story is explained from three points of view and you choose which house to live it with. Very good script twists and decisions to make that influence the course of this. Being a teacher and making your perfect team is very entertaining. Between battle and battle it is appreciated toMy favorite Nintendo Switch game. As a lover of the genre and the saga, it seems to me a sublime game. The story is explained from three points of view and you choose which house to live it with. Very good script twists and decisions to make that influence the course of this. Being a teacher and making your perfect team is very entertaining. Between battle and battle it is appreciated to be able to spend some time with your students and manage them at will. As a negative aspect, the map design is not one of the best in the series.… Expand
  54. Snowberries
    Jul 26, 2023
    10
    Fire Emblem Three Houses is an absolutely amazing game. I've played all 4 routes at least twice and sunk 800 hours into it. A huge majority of characters have a compelling depth to them and the story is very enjoyabe! You can choose between one of four routes in each playthrough and thanks to that, the game has a lot of replayability. Since all characters, to some extent, are "unrelableFire Emblem Three Houses is an absolutely amazing game. I've played all 4 routes at least twice and sunk 800 hours into it. A huge majority of characters have a compelling depth to them and the story is very enjoyabe! You can choose between one of four routes in each playthrough and thanks to that, the game has a lot of replayability. Since all characters, to some extent, are "unrelable narrators" in their respective routes, it is on the player to uncover the truth of the story by playing all four of them. There's so much to discover and so much to discuss about. Highly recommend this game!… Expand
  55. Obby360
    Nov 30, 2019
    10
    Fire Emblem Three Houses is an immersive game that adds a fresh perspective to the series and is a must have for any Nintendo Switch user.

    While the sheer amount of things to do is quite overwhelming the game does notice that by only giving you a set number of options to use very week- and the key of this game is in the planning. The world is complex, the characters unique and    Fire Emblem Three Houses is an immersive game that adds a fresh perspective to the series and is a must have for any Nintendo Switch user.

    While the sheer amount of things to do is quite overwhelming the game does notice that by only giving you a set number of options to use very week- and the key of this game is in the planning.

    The world is complex, the characters unique and intriguing and the plot is extremely entertaining.
    Make no mistake that whatever house you choose in the very beginning of the game will only get you through 60 to 70 hours of that houses story. You will have learned a lot, but there are two more houses you would have to pick again (if you want to get the full story ).

    This game keeps up the pace with every single week being more and more insightful into the lives of the students and the teachers.
    In part social in part tactical the game combines the best of both worlds with you the player being able to teach and interact with you students, motivate them, make decisions together that truly impact the game. At the same time also giving you a fair share of combat where you are forced to rely on your tactical skills to reach the end (and here I admissive most fervently to play in Classic mode)

    The main character does not speak, and his story might not be the most compelling of them all, but the game never once lets you get bored. You have a dozen or more fully realised characters that require just as much attention and have incredible stories of their own- And this is probably the greatest part about the game.

    I fully recommend this incredible game for this storytelling skills, strong characters and tactical combat.    … Expand
  56. josip23
    Sep 3, 2019
    10
    Best fire emblem hands down for me, the added mechanics really improve the experience
  57. Neatqt
    Feb 28, 2020
    9
    Cast: 8/10
    Story: 9/10
    Fun: 10/10
    Gameplay: 9/10

    MUST PLAY
    ---------------------- 50 Hours Played
  58. B0rn2_w1n
    Jun 13, 2020
    9
    Incredible game. One of my all time favourites for the Switch.

    Pros:
    - Amazing Story
    - Re-playable
    - Well balanced difficulty
    - Supper addictive
    - Narrative

    Cons:
    - Graphics? (not that they are that important for this kind of game)

    100% recommended
  59. calebmcg
    Nov 7, 2022
    10
    A masterpiece of strategy RPG with hundreds of hours of contents to play through, four different routes all with fantastic stories and great characters, not to mention the smoothest game-play.
    Unfortunately the game is severely lacking in the graphical department but it's not too important, and the other aspects, such as the soundtrack, were done so well that I can forgive it.
    Fire    A masterpiece of strategy RPG with hundreds of hours of contents to play through, four different routes all with fantastic stories and great characters, not to mention the smoothest game-play.
    Unfortunately the game is severely lacking in the graphical department but it's not too important, and the other aspects, such as the soundtrack, were done so well that I can forgive it.
    Fire Emblem: Three Houses is the best RPG I've played in years, and one of the best games I've ever played.    … Expand
  60. Lumy96
    Sep 2, 2019
    10
    Fantastic game! Very excited about the franchise going forward. (This game is not Astral whatever, so it’s strange to see so many reviews for that here)
  61. Odh
    Sep 6, 2019
    9
    Not sure its the absolute best FE game ever, but its in the discussion. Kind of miss the character breeding in recent FE games, but the hub world in this one is interesting as sort of something out of Harry Potter. Never really got used to the Gambits, would forget I could use them, but its an interesting new mechanic. This FE game doesn't reinvent the wheel, but tweaks it, I mostly reallyNot sure its the absolute best FE game ever, but its in the discussion. Kind of miss the character breeding in recent FE games, but the hub world in this one is interesting as sort of something out of Harry Potter. Never really got used to the Gambits, would forget I could use them, but its an interesting new mechanic. This FE game doesn't reinvent the wheel, but tweaks it, I mostly really like what they have done, but some longtime fans might say past games were somehow better or more challenging.… Expand
  62. Timothy0927
    Sep 8, 2019
    9
    If you are big fan of srpg you need to play this game.
    This game has a lot of replayability
  63. Logz
    Sep 11, 2019
    9
    This game... I'm almost 40 hours in, and I'm just finishing the Church route. It's a refreshing feeling knowing that when I finish the game, I haven't finished the game. I still have 3 different routes to take! If each take 40 hours, that's about 160 hours of play! That's only the main story. There's so much else to do. This was my first Tactical RPG, (and my first Fire Emblem) and I'mThis game... I'm almost 40 hours in, and I'm just finishing the Church route. It's a refreshing feeling knowing that when I finish the game, I haven't finished the game. I still have 3 different routes to take! If each take 40 hours, that's about 160 hours of play! That's only the main story. There's so much else to do. This was my first Tactical RPG, (and my first Fire Emblem) and I'm blown away by the gameplay. I will be playing this even after I finish all of the storylines just for the gameplay. The anime-style cutscenes were great. I think the low framerate looks awesome during these. The only complaint I have (which bumps it down a score) is the graphics. Some of these graphics look like literal garbage. If you go to the marketplace, you can see the fruit textures with such low-quality renders. During support/mission conversations, the background is just a flat image, and it looks terrible, especially when the ends meet. It can sometimes be distracting from the game. I do like the character models, they look perfect to me. The voice acting is great, and I have no complaints. This is a must-play if you have a Nintendo Switch.… Expand
  64. SilverF0X
    Sep 16, 2019
    9
    Easier than your usual strategy rpg but still very fun.
    Would recommend this game to anyone.
  65. Invisible_Mango
    Sep 30, 2019
    10
    I expected this game to be good... I didn't expect it to be THIS good. Wow.
  66. Kritsuwan
    Oct 26, 2019
    10
    Very good game The system is far better than the previous one and take all good points from each games together. Graphic is ok but fighting scene is very smooth
    Gameplay is flawless
  67. ernesto_saca
    Nov 1, 2019
    10
    As a fan of fire emblem for years this game has been my favorite so far although it is not as difficult as the other older games but it compensates very well with interesting new mechanics and a very interesting story in its 4 routes and a good variety of different characters and a lot of rejugability potential to be able to choose a different route, recruit different characters or theAs a fan of fire emblem for years this game has been my favorite so far although it is not as difficult as the other older games but it compensates very well with interesting new mechanics and a very interesting story in its 4 routes and a good variety of different characters and a lot of rejugability potential to be able to choose a different route, recruit different characters or the same ones from the previous time but specialize them in something different which is very good if you are a fan of the saga and you always want more . Finally, as something more personal, I would recommend playing it in classic difficulty since I feel that it is enjoyed more in that way since the fact of losing a unit forever during that game makes you have to think better about your strategies as in chess Where every movement counts a highly recommended game if you have a Nintendo switch… Expand
  68. bashimon
    Jan 12, 2021
    9
    My first Fire Emblem Game, and I love it. High replay value, well written characters and interactions. Combat can get very interesting at "Hard" mode with classic setup (permadeath), as long as you are not overleveled. Keep in mind that the graphics of the surroundings are just not good, but characters etc. are well designed for Switch standards. It's like a medieval Persona 5 that is aMy first Fire Emblem Game, and I love it. High replay value, well written characters and interactions. Combat can get very interesting at "Hard" mode with classic setup (permadeath), as long as you are not overleveled. Keep in mind that the graphics of the surroundings are just not good, but characters etc. are well designed for Switch standards. It's like a medieval Persona 5 that is a bit more serious and with a combat system that is more like chess than like Pokemon (in comparison to Persona).… Expand
  69. Stjepan3203
    Apr 30, 2023
    10
    Fire Emblem Three Houses is a masterpiece on it's own. Funny enough I first started the series with Engage but found myself in LOVE with this one. Three Houses has both amazing gameplay and deep emotional and complex story telling with a huge cast of characters. The art style is also very well choosen, I definitely prefer the more darker, grimy, sad atmosphere of Three Houses compared toFire Emblem Three Houses is a masterpiece on it's own. Funny enough I first started the series with Engage but found myself in LOVE with this one. Three Houses has both amazing gameplay and deep emotional and complex story telling with a huge cast of characters. The art style is also very well choosen, I definitely prefer the more darker, grimy, sad atmosphere of Three Houses compared to the colorful artwork of FE Engage.

    If you are a SRPG fan you should DEFINITELY pick this one up, it's a masterpiece and desirably so!    … Expand
  70. Blizzia
    Apr 6, 2021
    10
    This game is a must-play before you die. So do it. I honestly don't need to regurgitate what you've already read EVERYWHERE else. If you see this review, you're being foolish and looking for a way to justify not getting it. Just buy the game. You want it, and it's THAT good.
  71. Tiziown
    May 22, 2021
    10
    Fire Emblem never had truly amazing story or characters, or at least it didn't until Three Houses, which also set a very big lore and background making the world very deep and believable.
  72. skylinewpc
    Dec 19, 2022
    9
    A very good strategy game to play. The music just killed all the competitors. The graphic is decent, and the battle system is also decent to play with. The story is good and can be very deep with the other information and interpretation of the stuff that you don't understand on the first run-through. The character design is pretty good even though there are so many characters in this game.A very good strategy game to play. The music just killed all the competitors. The graphic is decent, and the battle system is also decent to play with. The story is good and can be very deep with the other information and interpretation of the stuff that you don't understand on the first run-through. The character design is pretty good even though there are so many characters in this game. The game mechanics are decent, but sometimes you one-shot the boss, or the boss one-shot you from very far away is kinda "nice". Anyhow it is a good game to kill some time, and the non-combat part of the game is decent to play. Some levels are repetitive, but the main story battle is always fresh to play. Each route would take about 30 to 50 hours of playing depending on your time leveling or skipping battles.… Expand
  73. BertKA88
    Aug 29, 2022
    9
    This is probably my favourite Switch game along Zelda BOTW which speaks to just how good this game is.
  74. Divad27
    Dec 18, 2022
    9
    The best of all the Fire Emblem franchise I've played. For RPG lovers it is wonderful, a great variety of combat movements and possibilities. Outside of combat it is equally good, artistically it is very beautiful, the soundtrack is great, the characters are most important and essential and the story has great depth (Like most of Fire Emblems). A must play game for those who can play itThe best of all the Fire Emblem franchise I've played. For RPG lovers it is wonderful, a great variety of combat movements and possibilities. Outside of combat it is equally good, artistically it is very beautiful, the soundtrack is great, the characters are most important and essential and the story has great depth (Like most of Fire Emblems). A must play game for those who can play it and a good chance to play an RPG if you have never tried one… Expand
  75. Paradov
    Mar 26, 2023
    9
    Very fun game. Lots of good waifus. I loved the art direction, the combat is pretty good.
  76. Goonie_80
    Jan 26, 2023
    10
    With Fire Emblem: Awakening the best game of the series. I just like the story and characters better in Fire Emblem: Three Houses!
  77. GamerDad2023
    Apr 22, 2023
    10
    Just as Persona 5 was surprising for its impressive quality content, so too is Fire Emblem: 3 Houses. While the tactics gameplay mechanics haven't evolved much, when combined with a great story and role-playing aspects including story routes, character classes, and characters' stories, this becomes a masterpiece.
  78. Hajime23
    Jul 27, 2023
    10
    The best strategy RPG game and this is the game was creat this type of game
  79. teler
    Sep 1, 2019
    10
    An incredible game that, while flawed in a few ways, is exceptional on so many fronts that it constitutes the best squad based tactical rpg I have ever played. I bought a Nintendo console for the first time in over a decade and couldn't be happier at my decision.

    The vast majority of the criticisms I have seen are based in nostalgia, such as the affinity for the weapon triangle, a    An incredible game that, while flawed in a few ways, is exceptional on so many fronts that it constitutes the best squad based tactical rpg I have ever played. I bought a Nintendo console for the first time in over a decade and couldn't be happier at my decision.

    The vast majority of the criticisms I have seen are based in nostalgia, such as the affinity for the weapon triangle, a mechanic which broke immersion by having nonsense like unshielded axes countering spears which in actual combat is a recipe for getting impaled. For fans of xcom, dragon age, and other games here you will find a synthesis of those great games into something truly exceptional.    … Expand
  80. pcuk
    Sep 4, 2019
    10
    I don't frequently replay games right away, but this one I jumped right back in. The NG+ options are excellent. If you like TRPGs, JRPGs, any Fire Emblem games, or just... good games, you will likely love this one.
  81. Okami195
    Sep 3, 2019
    10
    Incredibly in depth and addictive strategy game with brilliant relationship aspects and an exciting storyline one of the best games on Switch
  82. ExplosPlankton
    Jul 8, 2020
    10
    This is pretty much my first fire emblem game outside of playing fire emblem blazing blade on gba for about an hour before putting it down. At first I wasn't into three houses because of the monastery sections as playing all these mini games and running around talking to people etc was pretty boring. However, once I really dug in and gave it a chance, I was hooked and I would say now I'mThis is pretty much my first fire emblem game outside of playing fire emblem blazing blade on gba for about an hour before putting it down. At first I wasn't into three houses because of the monastery sections as playing all these mini games and running around talking to people etc was pretty boring. However, once I really dug in and gave it a chance, I was hooked and I would say now I'm even having fun running around trying to find all the items, raise support with my students, and generally be as efficient as possible. Certain things like fishing are still tedious however and make the game less replayable. For me, there could be improvements in certain areas like better end game class balance/diversity and making the students/units feel more unique. And despite it being a series staple, I'm not entirely sold on the idea of permadeath as pretty much any unit dying of yours is a reset, although divine pulse is a clever solution here. Overall, three houses is addicting fun once so I have to give it a 10. Looking forward to finishing my GD hard run and then playing through the BE route on maddening.… Expand
  83. kiwijinxter
    May 29, 2020
    10
    Before I started this game, Monster Hunter was the game that kept me playing in excess of 200 hours per game. I couldn't imagine any other game which could match the MH series. Enter Fire Emblem: Three Houses. I have clocked nearly the 300 hour mark (including 4 playthroughs - I won't put spoilers here but you'll find out - of the main game and a playthrough of the DLC) and all this isBefore I started this game, Monster Hunter was the game that kept me playing in excess of 200 hours per game. I couldn't imagine any other game which could match the MH series. Enter Fire Emblem: Three Houses. I have clocked nearly the 300 hour mark (including 4 playthroughs - I won't put spoilers here but you'll find out - of the main game and a playthrough of the DLC) and all this is because of the combination of riveting stories and excellent gameplay. The Fire Emblem series is based on its turn-based, tactical and addictive gameplay.

    The reason we kept coming back for more is the outcomes of relationships between members, the multiple divergent paths you can take, and the diverse number of characters you can battle with, each with their own strengths and weaknesses. The difficulty level is completely up to you. You can play super-hard and have perma-death on your characters, or you can play on casual and have any dead characters mercifully revived in the next mission.

    The story is so well written, and the in-game animation during the "exploration" days in the monastery is utterly beautiful. There are so many things to do during exploration too, so it's not just a tactical turned-base game. This is hands-down the most unique, most beautiful game (characters especially) and character-driven Fire Emblem of all Fire Emblems. I cannot recommend enough of this game. It really caught me unaware how the game never grows old despite multiple playthroughs, because it feels different in each playthrough.

    I highly recommend this - well worth the money paid for both the main game and the DLC.    … Expand
  84. Constipator
    Jul 22, 2021
    10
    Easily the best game in the series. IS worked with Koei-Tecmo to create an unforgettable masterpiece. If you're new to FE, deciding where you should start, and don't want to start with Awakening(because maybe you feel it's dated) then I highly recommend this game. Some of the old school players don't like the improvements made to the games over the years but I quite enjoy it. It's like theEasily the best game in the series. IS worked with Koei-Tecmo to create an unforgettable masterpiece. If you're new to FE, deciding where you should start, and don't want to start with Awakening(because maybe you feel it's dated) then I highly recommend this game. Some of the old school players don't like the improvements made to the games over the years but I quite enjoy it. It's like the development took notes from Persona and found ways to implement them in the game. It's kinda cool to have a self insert protagonist(but they really need to stray them away from using swords). They keep trying to make the games have an open world/sandboxy mechanic. Also, as someone who enjoys persona it was refreshing that they added a new experience to a beloved franchise.
    Lastly, the in game CG for cutscenes has improved from their previous ports, the music is timeless, and the character design are great(Marianne is my favorite).    … Expand
  85. iozay
    Dec 17, 2019
    10
    This game is simply amazing :) (Hint! Try replaying it multiple times, you might miss a few things in the first playthough :) )
  86. Elli27
    Sep 4, 2019
    9
    as someone who always tried to like fire emblem ever since the GBA game the sacred stones Three houses really hooked me in this time around.

    I liked awakening but felt it put too much emphasis on the relationship that you would ditch the parents as soon as you get the children but here relationships are a side thing which helps but is not a main component the removal of the weapon    as someone who always tried to like fire emblem ever since the GBA game the sacred stones Three houses really hooked me in this time around.

    I liked awakening but felt it put too much emphasis on the relationship that you would ditch the parents as soon as you get the children but here relationships are a side thing which helps but is not a main component

    the removal of the weapon triangle is really refreshing and is a great way to ensure you won't be force into certain builds

    the school is really what stands out this time around.

    very solid game overall    … Expand
  87. theirrelephants
    Feb 7, 2020
    10
    On the 3rd branching plot line out of 4 and I have to say it's been a fun ride. Let me put it this way: I spent ~$200+ for a Switch and this game and I don't regret it.

    I beat it on casual once, almost on hard (made it all the way to enbarr and got stuck because it put my death knight killer on the wrong side of the map) once, and hopefully on hard this run. I hope to do maddening on    On the 3rd branching plot line out of 4 and I have to say it's been a fun ride. Let me put it this way: I spent ~$200+ for a Switch and this game and I don't regret it.

    I beat it on casual once, almost on hard (made it all the way to enbarr and got stuck because it put my death knight killer on the wrong side of the map) once, and hopefully on hard this run. I hope to do maddening on my 4th.

    The characters are largely fun, with a few being one dimensional and boring but that's par for the course for this genre. With well over a dozen characters you're not going to like everyone.

    I enjoyed the story more than awakenings, and something something dragons something something. If you've played a fire emblem game you know what I mean.

    The mechanics are hard to judge because I am complete trash at turn based combat games like this. I didn't even realize you could swap out abilities until my second run. Maybe it's difficult, maybe it isn't. Play it and find out for yourself.    … Expand
  88. wattmatrix
    Jul 16, 2020
    10
    I'm not going to say it's perfect but its close. For the price tag the sheer amount and quality of content is amazing.
  89. adrenilinmatt
    Dec 3, 2020
    10
    Absolutely my favorite part of my Switch library.

    Hundreds of hours of gameplay, on maddening, failure after failure, and im still as in love now as i was the very first day i bought the game. It's brutal but fair, long yet never boring, fully voice acted and beautifully so. The battles are well thought out and offer variety and incredible map design. The cast of characters with their    Absolutely my favorite part of my Switch library.

    Hundreds of hours of gameplay, on maddening, failure after failure, and im still as in love now as i was the very first day i bought the game. It's brutal but fair, long yet never boring, fully voice acted and beautifully so. The battles are well thought out and offer variety and incredible map design. The cast of characters with their quirks and personalities off and on the battlefield is amazing.

    It's a 10/10 for me. Easiest one ive ever given.    … Expand
  90. Dragonred1700
    Sep 3, 2019
    10
    A masterpiece of a game. Ignore the haters(they’re just salty fanboys lol)
  91. acoolguy
    Sep 16, 2020
    9
    Not as polished a game as Awakening, but I feel the things it does well (story concept, characters, customization) overshadow what it doesn't (story execution, technical issues, repetitive maps and monastery sections).
    Although the routes don't have enough unique aspects to justify playing through all four for anyone but the most dedicated fans, I think they do a great job of encouraging    Not as polished a game as Awakening, but I feel the things it does well (story concept, characters, customization) overshadow what it doesn't (story execution, technical issues, repetitive maps and monastery sections).
    Although the routes don't have enough unique aspects to justify playing through all four for anyone but the most dedicated fans, I think they do a great job of encouraging discussion about the game. It's really interesting to see the different perspectives of people who played the Blue Lions route vs. those who did the Black Eagles route, for example.
    I was disappointed to see Intelligent Systems ditch Hidari for character designs after how great Shadows of Valentia looked, but aside from that this game gave me a lot of hope for the future of the series.    … Expand
  92. Leo13
    Sep 3, 2019
    10
    FINALLY!!! Another Fire Emblem I enjoy as much as Fire Emblem Awakening! Don't hesitate just buy this game. The story has me completely sucked in.
  93. myndpyre
    Oct 4, 2019
    9
    New to the series, new to the platform. Normally I am a PC gamer kinda guy. This is a great game, deep storyline, interesting combat that continues to evolve as the game goes on. You get almost immediate emotional attachment to your students, and satisfaction watching them succeed. My only complaint is that the text is a bit small on a switch-lite, us old guys need bigger text options. :)
  94. YoSahop
    Sep 4, 2019
    10
    This game just gets better and better. A must buy to play. Strategy, high replay value, and choosing a house is stressful but rewarding.
  95. mosabbir
    Aug 4, 2020
    10
    Three Houses was my first forray into this franchise and I've been addicted to this game ever since. Must have put 60 hours into the game in 4 days since I started playing it.Not many games have that impact on me.

    I'd easily recommend this title to fans of games like FF tactics or real time strategy as well as social sim like Persona.
  96. bulletchan
    Mar 28, 2020
    9
    This is, by far, the best Fire Emblem game to date, and if you haven't picked it up already, go and do so.
  97. DemKin
    Sep 24, 2019
    9
    The most ambitious title from Intelligent Systems (made in collaboration with Koei Tecmo) so far, and man is it a success. These guys just never disappoint me. How far has this great franchise, which invented the genre that birthed many other great franchises, come since its NES debut and since its debut in the West with FE7 on GBA.
    The numerous gameplay features take a bit of time to    The most ambitious title from Intelligent Systems (made in collaboration with Koei Tecmo) so far, and man is it a success. These guys just never disappoint me. How far has this great franchise, which invented the genre that birthed many other great franchises, come since its NES debut and since its debut in the West with FE7 on GBA.
    The numerous gameplay features take a bit of time to introduce which makes for a bit of a slow start ( the first one or two hours ? can't quite remember ), but once it's on it's one of those games that just keeps on giving. After a while, walking the "hub" ( aka Garreg Mach ) to talk with everyone and look for spawning items can become a bit of a hassle though (one that can be avoided, but I'm the thorough type of player), thankfully not enough to spoil the fun for me.
    High replayability value too as you have the choice between three houses each with different characters in them, as well as different branches in the story for each of them, and a NG+ mode which introduces new features. I myself finished it in 75 hours and will most likely go for NG+ if only to get to know a bunch of other characters in a different house and see where the story gets them.
    A must-have for Switch owners, highly recommended!

    EDIT: I saw it mentionned by other people so I will react to it, but I do feel the comparison to Harry Potter is very obvious to make. Sure, there is magic, and sure the school looks like a castle, but way more than that is that the tone of the story starts up very light while the students are enjoying what looks like an unusual but rather pleasant school life, and ends up becoming a way darker, sad and mature story. Not a bad comparison, I grew up reading the Harry Potter books, and whether you like this series or not, it's now a classic that made millions of kids dream. Hopefully this game will do the same for the kids that play it today.    … Expand
  98. CILIZ
    Sep 8, 2019
    9
    I can't actually say anything bad about this game. It's been a really long time since I have connected with characters in a game. The only flaw is that my main character was nearly immortal by the time I was in mid game.
    The story is good with some plot twists, great characters with unique personalities. Good turn based tactic combats. My best rpg in 2019 for now.
  99. death12123
    Sep 5, 2019
    9
    Fire Emblem Three Houses is a game I very much enjoyed. I feel some characters got the short end of the stick or I wanted more from them.
    A unique take on Fire Emblem and what blows me away with this one is the characters and their personalities. Although I don't think the story was as good as Radiant Dawn, the three stories on their own are all worth checking out with my favorite being    Fire Emblem Three Houses is a game I very much enjoyed. I feel some characters got the short end of the stick or I wanted more from them.
    A unique take on Fire Emblem and what blows me away with this one is the characters and their personalities. Although I don't think the story was as good as Radiant Dawn, the three stories on their own are all worth checking out with my favorite being the Golden Deer.
    The soundtrack is great and the new mechanics to the tactics game feel nice. Pretty much everything in this game is voiced and let me tell you, the English cast did beautifully it makes me just want to hear them way more nonstop. (Note: I don't really play JP voices in majority of games)

    The only thing holding me back from giving the game a 10 is the fact that the stages are WAY too big. Making promoting to mounts a must in Three Houses.    … Expand
  100. Testuser134
    Oct 4, 2019
    9
    Definitely, definitely worth a buy both for long-term fans and newcomers. I believe it is a bit easier than previous installments, but it's not necessarily bad considering how big this game is and how many endings and story changes you can have depending on your choices and houses. For fans of jRPGs and strategies, just give it a go, it's worth your money.
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Awards & Rankings

4
#4 Best Switch Game of 2019
4
#4 Most Discussed Switch Game of 2019
4
#4 Most Shared Switch Game of 2019

Critic Reviews

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Metascore
89

Generally favorable reviews - based on 102 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 98 out of 102
  2. Mixed: 4 out of 102
  3. Negative: 0 out of 102
  1. Nintendo Force Magazine
    Apr 28, 2020
    95
    There may be too much content here for busy adults to tackle! I don't know when I'm going to find the time to do full playthroughs of the other two Houses that I didn't choose to begin with! [Issue #41 – September 2019, p. 74]
  2. Universo Nintendo
    Oct 29, 2019
    90
    Fire Emblem Three Houses is one of Switch's best games of 2019 and a breeze of fresh air to this franchise. Unfortunately, its poor animations preclude any possibility of being the game of the year.
    Read full review
  3. Game World Navigator Magazine
    Oct 11, 2019
    86
    Large selection of classes, good AI and wide variety of missions make Fire Emblem: Three Houses one of the best turn-based tactics. [Issue#240, p.50]
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